Salutology

Salutology (sometimes referred to as salutogenesis, which is more the method) is the study of the origins and causes of health and well-being, as opposed to pathology, which focuses on disease. The methods used aim to identify, support, and strengthen factors that help individuals and communities maintain and enhance their well-being´

Whereas classical concepts of salutogy rely more on psychological thinking, the integration of modern achievments in biology such as the  importance of neurological active metabolites of the gut microbiota ( such as mood and depression regulationg epigenetic active butyrate and beta-hydroxy butyrate, serotonin regulating tryptohan, or neuropeptides )  will strongly improve the success of salutolgy. According to modern thinking methods of salutology need to follow the concept of personalisation in health care. 

Especially advances in the understanding of the function of the Brain- Gut – Immune – epigenetic  axis will be of central importance for  salutology 

Methods for analysis of personal status, characteristics and dispositions:

Blood clinical analysis for macro- and micronutrients and enzymes affecting mood

Genetic analysis for potential genetic disposition for mood disorders>>>

Epigenetic analysis for the status of the gut-immune-brain axis, especially  individual stress reactions

Analysis of GI microbiota for potential imbalances of microbiota and their metabolites  affecting mood and depression

Analysis using methods of traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM), as this is a very integrative analysis

Interventions

Improvement of the  GI microbiota producing beneficial metabolites for mood:

Probiotics and psychobiotics, which  reduce inflammation, produce neurotransmitters (e.g., GABA, serotonin) such as products containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium breve (in brands like Culturelle, BioGaia)

Postbiotics containing Butyrate, propionate, lactate; supplements like Butycaps or heat-killed Lactobacillus extracts

Plant-derived ingredients which are known to improve mood, depression, but also cognitive decline, eg Iqtin

Products containing EGCG, ferulic acid, quercetin or apigenin

Strengthening Interventions. Boosting the individual’s sense of coherence leads to better resilience and health.

Social coherence is also seen as a central factor for longevity in the bluezones concept >>>

Methods:

Cognitive-behavioral techniques to reframe negative thoughts

Mindfulness and meditation

Narrative therapy (helping people find meaning in their experiences)

Life skills and decision-making workshops

Enhancing General Resistance Ressources (GRRs)
Helping individuals identify, access, and build their personal and social resources.

Methods:

Social support building (e.g., support groups or peer networks)

Coaching or mentoring

Personal goal-setting and reflection

Time management and coping strategy training

Health-Promoting Behavior Programs
Encouraging healthy habits that reinforce both physical and psychological well-being.

Methods:

Analysis of the status of  GI microbiota, metabolites and micro- and macro- nutrients

Analysis of  aging processes according to the hallmark of aging >>>

Physical activity routines incuding a genetic-, epigenetic analysis of the perso nal athletic type

Healthy eating education, including  individual specific potential need  of pro-, pre or post- biotics or epigenetic active üolyphenol additives

Sleep hygiene coaching including the analysis of the chronotyp

Stress reduction programs. Use of genetic-,  epigenetic analysis of the stress status

Self-care practices

Meaning-Making and Purpose Exploration
Helping individuals discover or reconnect with purpose and values, which boosts the “meaningfulness” component of SOC.

Methods:

Reflective writing or journaling

Guided life-purpose exercises

Volunteering or helping others

Spiritual or philosophical exploration

Salutogenic Coaching and Counseling
Professionals trained in salutogenic approaches guide individuals in building strengths and navigating challenges.

Methods:

Motivational interviewing

Positive psychology coaching

Solution-focused therapy

Personal Health Assessment and Monitoring
Using salutogenic tools to assess strengths and track progress toward better health.

Methods:

SOC scale assessments (e.g., SOC-13 or SOC-29)

Self-assessment of life satisfaction or resilience

Personalized health planning

more information  >>>, >>>