Everyone is aware of the assault that your stomach takes from antibiotics. You might think cramps and diarrhea are bad enough, but at least those are transient problems. Brand new animal research suggests these drugs trigger Type 1 diabetes, especially when toddlers take them. Keep in mind that back in 2015, a Denmark study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism correlated the use of antibiotics to type 2 diabetes in adults. From all of this, and other research, I think it’s safe to conclude that antibiotic usage increases risk for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Antibiotics are doled out way too easily, and some of them can destroy your nerve fibers forever. You may be taking care of grandkids or are the one taking them to the doctor while parents are working. You don’t need me to tell you that some doctors are pretty quick to prescribe antibiotics for your grandkids who present with skin rashes, ear aches, sore throats or coughs. But between you and me, they are just guessing. They don’t know for sure if the bug is a virus or bacteria. The antibiotics won’t work if your infection is viral, yet the prescription is handed out almost immediately. I think pediatricians and Lyme practitioners should rethink prescribing antibiotics in everyone who walks in the door, or at least consider shorter terms of usage.

In the United States, statistics show that approximately half of all antibiotic prescriptions written have no therapeutic basis. I think this is a gross underestimate.

To hear that their use can trigger a life-long metabolic disorder that requires insulin shots is infuriating. Think of the economic impact on families, and the terrible loss of quality of life. Needle sticks, dietary restrictions, doctor visits forever more. Sadly, reducing diabetic complications becomes the goal, because a cure is difficult (although possible in some cases).

Antibiotics wipe out probiotics, and when your microbiome is lacking friendly bacteria, the hateful ones take over. Then your immune system is compromised. Changes in enzyme production and gene expression occur. This is what ultimately leads to the metabolic disaster, making you way more susceptible to diabetes and all the serious complications like heart disease, amputation, more infections and blindness.

I know some of you take them every day. I just want you to be empowered and make an informed decision with your own physician about antibiotics. Heavy usage may increase your risk of diabetes, allergies, asthma, colitis, Crohn’s and heart disease.