The Gut-Brain Connection

We can no longer ignore the importance of gut health in living healthy, vibrant lives. You probably know that your digestive tract breaks down the food you eat and absorbs nutrients (which is hugely important on its own), but did you know that it also plays a key role in our mental health & immune function?! In fact, your gut has its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system, and is therefore considered “the second brain” of the body.

Your central nervous system is in constant, direct communication with your enteric nervous system, called the gut-brain axis. What is so interesting and powerful about this connection is that it works both ways. If you’ve ever gotten “butterflies” in your stomach when you were nervous or felt your “stomach drop” when you received bad news, then you have experienced how your emotions directly impact your gut. What is lesser known is that your gut can trigger emotions. New research is finding that an unhealthy gut can activate the brain and cause feelings of anxiety and depression. It’s a two-way street.

The important take away is that your gut health could be effecting your mental health, and your mental health could be effecting your gut health. To heal either one of these issues it is helpful to take a holistic approach and address not only the physical factors but the mental & emotional components as well.

Signs of poor gut health are GI issues such as gas, bloating, constipation and diarrhea, as well as more general issues such as headaches, brain fog, poor concentration & memory, fatigue, chronic pain, trouble sleeping and mood instability.

Some ways you can support your gut health are to:

• Eat foods high in prebiotics and probiotics

• Eat REAL, whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables & meats

• Avoid inflammatory foods (processed food & sugar) and foods you know you are sensitive too

• Get enough quality sleep

• Find a healthy way to manage stress

• Move your body regularly

• Get adjusted

You can also take advantage of the brain-gut axis and use your mind to improve gut health. The stress and anxiety we feel in our minds sends immediate signals to our gut and perpetuates the problem. Exploring how to best support your gut using the tips above is one major piece of the puzzle. The other piece is removing the constant signals of stress and anxiety. Use meditation, intentional thought or relaxation techniques to calm your mind, and therefore, help heal your gut.

Caring for your gut one of the most important things you can do for your overall health!