ADVANCED GUT HEALTH
Our gut microbiome is finally getting the attention that it deserves in the world of health and the world of brain health. Our gut and brain communicate via the gut-brain axis, which is a network of signaling pathways between the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Compromised gut health or dysbiosis is a very common occurrence. Symptoms of gut dysbiosis include gas, bloating, and inconsistent bowel movements (too often, or not often enough). Gut issues are unpleasant all around, but now let’s talk about how our gut can impact our brain health. Dysbiosis and inflammation of the gut have been linked to causing several mental illnesses, including anxiety and depression.
We have neurons in our gut that are observing the nutritional quality and chemistry of our gut. These neurons then communicate their findings to the brain. When we eat foods that we like, specific neurons in the gut called neuropods are activated by specific nutrients (sugar, fatty acids, and amino acids). Neuropods send communication via the vagus nerve.
The microorganisms in the gut microbiota isare capable of influencing metabolic events sm and also of synthesizing neurotransmitters themselves. They make neurochemicals that can impact the body indirectly. The foods you eat and, the environment of the gut microbiome can create the substrates that allow the brain to feel one way or the other.
Other microorganisms microbiota support the production of serotonin. The gut produces 90– to 95% percent of our serotonin. is produced in the gut, which aAs we discussed above, baseline serotonin levels impact our mood, wellbeing, and more.
Some bacteria also make oxytocin, a hormone our own bodies produce that encourages increased social behavior. Other bacteria make substances that cause symptoms of depression and anxiety.
How to improve gut health: The best way to understand what is going on in your gut and to improve gut health, is to test. Working with a functional medicine practitioner to test, and identify your imbalances in your gut. This will help you target specific areas of trouble with the most precise remedies.
Gut and Oral Health Testing with Viome
Gut testing is also critical for better health. Our gut and brain are directly connected, and our gut health impacts our brain health. With Viome, you can take an at-home stool test, along with a few drops of blood, to better understand your gut health and foods that are best to avoid or possibly add more of. They also offer custom supplements based on exactly what your body needs. We also offer a more in-depth and practitioner-analyzed test at my clinic, LYV.