The gut-brain axis
We now understand that there is a very close association between the gut and the brain. The status of one’s gut microbial flora, known as the microbiome can affect mood, cognition, immunity, even propensity for developing cancers.
The implications of this connection is that we now understand why what we eat can affect so much of our health status because of the effects of our diet on the gut microbiome
The gut microbiome is comprised of billions of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other micro-organisms which work together to affect countless aspects of our health. Think of it as another living, changing organ system, working in concert with the central nervous system to affect the most important functions of the human body.
Affecting out microbiome negatively are highly processed foods, high fat content foods, fried foods. and low fiber foods. Conversely, a high fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables can be very beneficial tot he microbiome. Fermented foods. like sauerkraut, Kambucha, and unsweetened yogurts can also be very beneficial to a healthy microbiome and optimal gut - brain connection.
My prescription: Eating a balanced diet, high in fiber content, low in fat, not highly processed, low in high fructose corn syrup and rich in essential vitamins and minerals can be beneficial to maintaining healthy biome.
One should avoid unnecessary antibiotics which kill “good” bacteria as well as “bad”. Excessive antacid used can alter the gut pH which can also potentially damage a thriving biome. Also alcohol intake should be kept to a minimum.
Once your microbiome is restored to its healthy state you will feel better, have more energy, more easily maintain healthy weight and optimize your body’s infection and cancer fighting abilities. It is clearly worth whatever small adjustments you need to make in your lifestyle in order to preserve a healthy gut microbiome, thus optimizing the gut-brain axis.
In health,
Dr. John Monaco
MONACO Wellness
(813)541-6440
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