Bodybuilding success is largely dependent on whether one has access to a fresh supply of nutritious foods. Chicken, beef, turkey and fish are all examples of staple protein sources, designed to build serious muscle, if consumed in sufficient quantities.
However, given bodybuilders typically eat considerably more than the average person, as they strive to add mass to their physiques, particular attention should be given to the quality of the foods they ingest. “The aforementioned protein sources are notoriously susceptible to contamination especially Salmonella if incorrect preparation processes are followed”(1)- one more reason to avoid fast food restaurants. (These are where many of the incidences of food poisoning occur)
Salmonella is a food poisoning caused by the salmonella enterica bacterium. Many types of this bacteria exist. However, in the United States of America the major three bacterium are salmonella serotype, typhimurium and salmonella serotype enteritidis. Salmonellosis is much more common in the summer than in the winter. The spread of salmonella is largely contributed to consumption of foods such as beef, poultry, milk and eggs, however animals are also a major carrier of salmonella animals such as reptiles, baby chicks, ducklings and small rodents are notorious sources of salmonella.
Symptoms usually begin 12-72 hours after infection. Diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever are common symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, headache, and muscle aches may occur. The symptoms usually go away on their own after four to seven days. However, many natural foods can offer relief from symptoms such as garlic. Garlic offers both antimicrobial and antibiotic like activity. Garlic contains allicin which makes it strong enough to fight and kill both, gram positive and negative microorganisms, even salmonella. Therefore eating garlic in its raw form will help relieve symptoms that cause discomfort. Another alternative to garlic is oregano oil, the oil contains many ingredients that make it a powerful antiseptic that can help destroy bacteria.
Every year, salmonella is estimated to cause “one million illnesses in the United States, with 19,000 hospitalizations and 380 deaths. Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection.” (2) Salmonella is self-limited so antibiotics are usually not prescribed. However, children under two, the elderly or patients with suppressed immune systems will typically be given antibiotics and hospitalized if diagnosed with Salmonella. The use of antibiotics to treat food poisoning is Very controversial. Many experts argue that the use of antibiotics actually increase the length of illness.
Prevention of Salmonella is relatively easy. If you follow these simple steps the spread of salmonella will be greatly reduced.
