A potentially fatal digestive disease, Clostridium difficile (C. diff), is on the rise, with more than 2 million people developing the infection in the past 15 years. This troublesome bacteria triggers digestive pain, diarrhea, dehydration, and can be challenging to eradicate. It often evolves to become antibiotic-resistant, making conventional treatments less effective. C. diff infections surge in springtime due to increased antibiotic usage during the winter months. Mainstream medicine has contributed to this epidemic by prescribing antibiotics for viral illnesses, which cannot be treated with antibiotics. This excess consumption of antibiotics has eliminated much of the friendly bacteria in our guts, making it easier for harmful bacteria like C. diff to thrive.
However, you can lower your risk of developing a C. diff infection by taking a few simple precautions.
Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
Antibiotics are often prescribed for viral illnesses like colds and the flu, even though they are only effective against bacterial infections. This over-prescription has led to a broad decline in beneficial gut bacteria, paving the way for C. diff to flourish. To minimize the risk of infection, only take antibiotics when absolutely necessary to treat a genuine bacterial infection.
Rethink proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Many people take proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid indigestion relief. However, these medications can have negative side effects, including a heightened risk of C. diff infection. Consider alternative methods for managing acid reflux, such as natural remedies or lifestyle changes, to help maintain a healthier gut environment.
Maintain good hygiene practices, especially in healthcare settings
C. diff bacteria often contaminate surfaces, making it easy to inadvertently ingest the bacteria when in a healthcare setting, such as hospitals or nursing homes. Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly, especially when in these environments, can help reduce the risk of infection. Encourage others around you to adopt frequent handwashing as well.
Strengthen your gut microbiome
A healthy gut microbiome is your best defense against harmful bacteria like C. diff. To promote a balanced and diverse gut environment, incorporate more probiotics and prebiotics into your diet. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, while prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and bananas. Focus on a balanced diet that includes ample fiber to help maintain a healthy intestinal lining.
Consider fecal transplants
While antibiotics have been the go-to treatment for C. diff infections in the past, fecal transplants show promising results for combating the bacteria. This treatment involves transferring fecal matter from a healthy individual into someone with a C. diff infection, allowing beneficial bacteria to repopulate the digestive tract and evict the harmful C. diff bacteria. Fecal transplants are now available in pill form, making this innovative treatment even more accessible.
By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing a C. diff infection and maintain a healthier gut environment. Prioritize proper antibiotic usage, avoid unnecessary medications, practice good hygiene, and nurture your gut microbiome to keep detrimental bacteria at bay.
