The connection between our gut and brain is a two-way street according to new research, with each and every bite influencing the way we think, feel and behave.
It is not just a lack of beneficial bacteria we have available but the fact that we aren’t feeding them with the right foods. The foods we eat literally change our microbiome. Modern lifestyles are fast-paced and subject to multiple physical, mental, emotional and environmental stressors. When coupled with diets high in processed foods and overuse use of antibiotics, the gut isn’t accessing the diverse range of bacteria needed to perform basic bodily functions such as maintaining and nurturing our physical and mental health.
Up to 90% of serotonin and 50% of dopamine vital brain chemicals which impact our happiness, wellbeing, reward and motivation –are made in the gut. Which, in layman’s terms, suggests that our happiness is in our gut’s hands.
If the gut doesn’t have the right microbes to create feel-good chemicals in our bodies, – it’s going to have a huge impact on the way we feel.
These recent findings on the gut-brain connection form the basis of my upcoming national tour which unpacks how gut microbes, which are biochemically connected to the brain, play a significant role in managing inflammation in our body and mind.
Obesity, autoimmune conditions, restless leg syndrome, fibromyalgia, metabolic conditions (heart, cardiovascular), metabolic syndrome, fatty liver and high blood pressure appear to be linked to the microbes inside us too.
Instead of eating to resolve hunger, I suggest eating to nourish; fuelling our bodies and minds with whole foods rich in natural probiotics (kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (vegetables which feed probiotics), in addition to prioritising sleep, stress management and restorative exercise which can modulate biome by 20%.
The Gut-Brain Connection Nationwide Tour runs through October - November 2019 and the Auckland event is on 6 November and Auckland North Shore event on 17 October.
BePure, T: 0800 52 54 52 E. info@bepure.co.nz, www.bepure.co.nz
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