Take care of your gut bugs, and they’ll take care of you!
We are what we eat, digest, and absorb. The trillions of gut bacteria in our gastrointestinal (GI) tract play a pivotal role in our physiological functioning. Our gut bacteria have a direct impact on our brain function and behaviors, too!
The gut and brain are inextricably linked through the Vagus nerve – the longest nerve in our body connecting our brain stem (Central Nervous System) to our gut microbiome. The Vagus nerve IS our Gut-Brain Connection or Gut-Brain Axis – playing a critical role in both health, and illness.
The bi-directional signaling between our gut and brain is necessary in maintaining equilibrium in our body. Our gut microbiome impacts mood along with cognitive function, decision-making, high-level executive functioning and emotions. Several neurotransmitters (brain-based chemicals) are created/regulated by our gut (e.g. serotonin, dopamine, GABA). They influence our stress response and Vagus nerve pathway, capable of playing a role in mental health disorder development.
Gut bacteria thrive on diverse, colorful sources of fiber found in plants.
Diverse fiber supports diverse strains of beneficial (probiotic) bacteria in our gut microbiome, whereas a poor, low-fiber diet and poor bacterial balance (Dysbiosis) disrupt the functioning and health of the Gut-Brain Axis – worsening gut/brain-related symptoms and dysregulating the immune response. Imbalances can bring about active inflammation, disrupted brain signaling, dysregulated neurotransmitters, and hormone-driven issues.
Build a solid foundation with a diverse, anti-inflammatory, whole food diet. Then, layer in strategic supplementation for periods of time as your unique health needs dictate.
*Please do your due diligence in researching which forms of natural supplementation may be supportive of your personal medical history/current health journey, approaching with intention and care.
Last but not least, explore Higher Healths Beef Liver as a food-based multivitamin, of sorts! Rich in gut/brain-supportive micronutrients (including Vitamin A, B12, folate, iron, zinc and copper).
Food for Thought…
A balanced, thriving gut microbiome is necessary for optimal digestion, brain function/activity and healthy emotional responses. Growing research continues to illustrate the impact of intestinal inflammation on our Central Nervous System.
About the Author
Jessica Ferguson (Pecush) is a Natural Nutrition Clinical Practitioner based in Calgary, Alberta.
Her 2-decade journey with autoimmune disorder Ulcerative Colitis ultimately led her into the world of Holistic Nutrition with a deep-dive focus on gut health and autoimmunity, given ALL symptoms and disorders in the body stem from the health and functioning of the gut!
Through her (online-based) private practice (Jessica Pecush Nutrition), Jessica supports others with redefining their future health trajectory. Her therapeutic, anti-inflammatory approach encompasses a personalized whole foods-based diet, high-impact natural supplementation, calming lifestyle/stress management practices, restorative sleep strategies and of course, a growth mindset!
Jessica deeply empowers you with a sustainable, root cause-supportive approach for long-term vitality, rather than band-aid solutions that just temporarily mask symptoms.
