Did you know that you have a second brain in your body?
The enteric nervous system (ENS) is comprised of thousands of ganglia within the esophagus, intestines, stomach, pancreas, and gallbladder. The enteric nervous system is connected to the central nervous system (brain) via the vagus nerve.
Natural Ways to Improve Gut-Brain Connection
- Avoid processed foods
- Eliminate gluten
- Eat healthy fats
- Consume mushrooms
- Eat nuts
- Add sesame seeds to your diet
These are just a few examples but keep an eye out for future Wellness Wednesday posts on how you can support your gut-brain connection.
Impacts on Depression and Anxiety
Microflora in your gut transmits brain signals through pathways that are involved in brain neuron functioning and behavior control. Since chronic stress keeps you in a sympathetic response, your cortisol levels are spiking continuously. High levels of secreted cortisol show a link with depression and anxiety. Finding ways to reduce stress will help lower cortisol levels and in turn, decrease depression and anxiety occurrences.
Want More Information?
If you are wanting to learn more about how your gut and brain are connected and how you can change your lifestyle to improve the connection, call today! Claire would love to meet with you to personally talk about your nutrition and how you can begin or continue to support your gut-brain axis.
Follow our Instagram to stay up-to-date on more wellness tips!
