3 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health Through Your Gut
Take a Probiotic
Researchers have found that feeding probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, to mice resulted in changes to the gut’s microbial colonies that could reduce anxiety. A more recent study on prebiotics, which are carbohydrates that feed good bacteria, showed that taking a daily prebiotic supplement for three weeks helped people manage anxious and depressed feelings better. Additionally, some reports suggest that imbalanced bacteria levels in the gut could be linked to autism, indicating that probiotics might be a helpful treatment for autistic children.
Use Curcumin to Modulate Cytokines
While probiotics and prebiotics can improve gut health, recent evidence suggests that internal inflammation also significantly impacts mental health. Many factors can cause gut irritation, such as poor diets and obesity. The body responds by sending cells and proteins, including cytokines, to the affected area. Research indicates that people with depression often have high levels of cytokines. Taking turmeric, which contains curcumin, may help reduce gut inflammation and mitigate brain damage caused by environmental factors.
Incorporate More Omega-3s Into Your Diet
Some studies suggest that depression might be an allergic reaction to internal inflammation. Supplementing with omega-3s and curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, could help alleviate gut issues similarly to how nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work. Increasingly, doctors are focusing on addressing inflammation in depression treatment protocols rather than only targeting neurological symptoms.
Maintaining a Healthy Gut
Many people only start feeling anxious or depressed after experiencing gut problems, highlighting the strong connection between the gut and the brain. Conditions like IBS and gluten intolerance can lead to depressive-like symptoms. Regular colon cleanses and probiotic supplementation can help maintain a healthy gut. Consider my Colon Cleanse Program, designed to cleanse your digestive tract of toxins while supporting beneficial bacteria colonies.
