Have you ever been told to “listen to your gut?” Modern studies have demonstrated that there’s actually a lot of truth to that saying! We have come to learn that your gut is intricately connected to your brain. Anything that happens in your gut can have an impact on the way you feel emotionally and mentally.
The Gut-Brain Connection
The gut-brain connection has become clearer in recent years as experts uncover more evidence of how gut health plays a role in our overall mental well-being. For instance, research is showing that probiotics - beneficial bacteria found in our gut - may help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This could be because probiotics have an effect on neurotransmitter production, which affects our emotions.
Additionally, inflammation caused by gastrointestinal bacteria imbalance could lead to depression and other mental health issues. However, while diet plays a key role in your gut health, it’s important to understand that gut health can also be impacted by your environment, lifestyle and stress levels. Ultimately, everything is interconnected.
How to Improve Your Gut Health
To improve your gut health, try incorporating probiotics into your daily diet by consuming foods like:
yogurt
kimchi
sauerkraut
apple cider vinegar
cottage cheese
You should also increase your intake of prebiotic-rich foods, such as:
garlic
onions
bananas
asparagus
flax seeds
The following lifestyle changes can also help maintain gut balance and mental well-being:
Reduce stress.
Get enough sleep.
Exercise regularly.
Stay hydrated.
Next Steps for a Healthier You
As it turns out, “listening to your gut” can be more than just a metaphor. Taking care of your gut can help you protect your mental health and keep your brain in tip-top shape.
At Anderson Longevity Clinic, we provide specific testing for gut health to help you target your body’s specific needs. Staying in touch with a provider who understands gastrointestinal health will help you stay on top of your gut health, which will ultimately keep you mentally sharp and happy!
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