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The Link Between Mental and Physical Health
Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski

The Link Between Mental and Physical Health

In modern healthcare, the different aspects of the human body are often viewed as separate and distinct problems. Physical health is categorized into an abundance of specialties, such as cardiology and gastroenterology. Mental health is considered a distinct entity. Yet many pieces of health literature describe mental and physical health as intricately related.

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Gut Microbiome and Mental Health
Microbiome, Gut, Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski Microbiome, Gut, Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski

Gut Microbiome and Mental Health

The relationship between the body and the trillions of bacteria and other microbes it harbors is extremely complex and continues to be discovered. A high diversity of microbes is beneficial to the body and is characteristic of a resilient environment. On the other hand, low diversity can contribute to disease. This can be related to poor diet, antibiotics, obesity, stress, and other factors [1]. The gut microbiome (the term for the abundance of microorganisms and their environment) can plan a role in mental well-being, in addition to physical health.

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The Value of the Dinner Table
Children, Nutrition, Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski Children, Nutrition, Mental Health Joy H. Stepinski

The Value of the Dinner Table

Recently I wrote a newsletter article about the current healthcare concerns among children. I came across many articles that shared the importance of family dining. Throughout my adult years, I have always remembered the importance my mother gave to serving meal at the table. There were only rare occasions when schedules could not be sorted out to make this happen. Family dinner was a way for the family to gather, discuss current events, and the ongoings of the day. More importantly, the time was central to connection, sharing, and valuing one another. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits that the literature reports.

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