Your brain’s health is dictated by what goes on in your gut. That’s right: What’s taking place in your intestines affects not only your brain’s daily functions, but also determines your risk for a number of neurological conditions in the future.
Your intestinal organisms, or microbiome, participate in a wide variety of bodily systems, including immunity, detoxification, inflammation, neurotransmitter and vitamin production, nutrient absorption, whether you feel hungry or full, and how you utilize carbohydrates and fat. All of these processes factor into whether you experience chronic health problems like allergies, asthma, ADHD, cancer, type 2 diabetes, or dementia.
What you might not know is that your microbiome also affects your mood, your libido, and even your perceptions of the world and the clarity of your thoughts. A dysfunctional microbiome could be at the root of your headaches, anxiety, inability to concentrate, or even negative outlook on life.
I – Word Understanding
neurological conditions – conditions related to the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, nerves)
detoxification – removing harmful substances (from the body)
dysfunctional – not normal
II – Have Your Say
Perhaps the most significant factor related to the health of the microbiome — and thus, the brain — is the food we eat. Here are 5 ways to boost your brain through your gut:
1. Eat foods rich in probiotics (live bacteria and yeast)
2. Go lower carbs, embrace high quality fats
3. Enjoy chocolate, coffee, wine and tea
4. Consume foods rich in prebiotics (food-borne fuel)
5. Drink filtered water
