There’s an age-old saying that we all know well:
“The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”
Ah, Food—delicious, comforting and vital! After all, it’s the basic requirement for life (other than water, of course)! We use it to give ourselves energy, to remind us of home, and even to woo!
What if I told you that food is the way to more than our hearts? After all, the term “brain-food” didn’t come from thin air!
WHAT IS “GUT HEALTH”?
“Gut Health” refers to the health and function of all of the organs that are involved in the processes of ingesting food as well as turning that food into waste. These organs include the pancreas, gallbladder, liver, stomach, esophagus as well as the large and small intestines.
The gut is full of over 100 trillion microorganisms that control and regulate all of our gastrointestinal functions. The properties and functions of these organs are so unique that they actually form their own microbiome in our bodies!
HOW DOES THE GUT AFFECT THE BRAIN?
Oftentimes, our “gut” is referred to as the body’s second brain. Our digestive systems communicate directly and frequently with our brains, meaning what we eat has a large impact on how we think! Our gut affects our brain in two primary ways:
- Physically: The gut is directly connected to the brain through the vagus nerve, which sends and controls messages to the lungs, heart, digestive system and other vital organs.
- Chemically: Messages are also sent from the gut to the brain through chemicals like neurotransmitters and hormones.
HOW CAN POOR GUT HEALTH HURT YOU?
Because our brains and bodies are so in sync with our gut, our digestive function can directly relate to a myriad of health concerns:
- 70% of your immune system lives in your gut! Poor gut health will lead to an immune system that severely lacks the support it needs to function in tip-top shape.
- Mental health issues (anxiety, depression)
- Gastrointestinal issues (constipation, bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, etc.)
- Cancer development
- Gut inflammation has been shown mimic the symptoms of other issues (mental health concerns, Parkinson’s and even autism)
HOW DOES A HEALTHY GUT HELP THE BRAIN?
Let’s say it again: Gut Health is Brain Health!
You can improve the health of your gut by changing your diet, including nutritional supplements, and by keeping a closer eye on your digestive system is affecting you. Maintaining gut health can help improve your brain and body by—
- Supporting a healthy, balanced immune system that maintains homeostasis
- Warding off obesity
- Preventing and treating diabetes
- Improved prenatal growth
- Improved cognition, memory and overall retention abilities
- Assisting with better bowel movements
- Preventing, treating or curing gastrointestinal upsets like acid reflux or abdominal pain
If you are looking to treat current medical issues, improve your mental health, or increase your brain function, here’s a piece of advice:
Trust your gut!