The axis: connection between gut and brain health

 

We all are familiar with our brain and the role our central nervous system plays in regulating vital organs, and allowing us to think rationally. However, most people are not aware that they have a second brain in their body, known as the enteric nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract. This second brain, though responsible for the process of food movement and digestion, also helps produce our neurotransmitters, used for brain health. There is a tight communication pathway between the CNS and ENS through the brain stem, which helps inform each nervous system what the body may be needing.             

In turn, our brain can inform our digestive system that something is off emotionally, when we get butterflies in the stomach, or digestive discomfort after hearing some difficult news.  There can be an emotional culprit behind our physical feeling. This helps give validity to the phrase “trust your gut,” and how individuals can be informed what is happening physically and emotionally in their bodies.

How do we strengthen our gut and brain connection, and heal issues with either, that may be wreaking havoc on our health?

Below are some steps to consider in strengthening your gut and brain axis connection.

  1. Taking a food as medicine. In particular foods like ginger, sauerkraut, kefir, and edible aloe vera juice, and bone broth are soothing to the digestive system. Adding spices to your food, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and garlic are also helpful for reducing any inflammation. Also, healthy fats like avocado, flax seeds, and wild salmon are great for strengthening the enteric and central nervous systems with their high content of Omega 3s. 

  2.  Taking a probiotic. Probiotics help protect the gut, and help the ratio between bad versus good bacteria in the gut. Visit a local health food store and consult a specialist for the best probiotic type and dosage.

  3. Decrease Stress. Our gut microbiome can be altered easily due to stress. Also, we know that decreasing stress, helps our brains move through life with more ease and flexibility. Below are some ideas for helping to decrease stress.

    • Physical exercise

    • Be outside in nature

    • Deep breathing

  4. Strengthen mind-body connection

    • Checking-in with yourself, how are you? What feels off, physically, emotionally, or mentally.

    • Journal

    • Set aside time to be in silence

 
Mind and Body HealingShantel Gonsalves