How much thought do you give your gut, specifically, your microbiome?
On the flip side, how much thought do you give to your brain health?
In his book, “Brain Maker,“ David Perlmutter, MD says that our digestive system is closely linked to what goes on in the brain.
Who knew?!
What is the microbiome?
Our bodies have about 100 trillion organisms that cover our outsides and insides. These organisms are called microbes and there are thousands of different species (which include fungi, viruses, and bacteria). Even though they can be found throughout our body, even on our skin, most of them are found within our digestive tract. These live organisms make up our microbiome. This is the key to our health.
How can these microbes help us function?
Dr. Perlmutter (a neurologist) says that our microbiome has a dominant role in health and brain function throughout our life, starting from birth.
Are you ready for this?
These microbes, or “good“ bacteria, pretty much direct the show in:
- Aiding digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Creating a physical barrier against potential invaders. This could be bad bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
- Neutralizing many toxins found in food. This could help decrease the workload of your liver.
- Controlling certain immune cells and preventing autoimmunity. This has a huge influence on the immune system‘s response.
- Producing and releasing enzymes and other substances that work with your biology and chemicals for your brain.
- Helping your hormonal system to handle stress.
- Helping to control the body’s inflammatory pathways.
So, the good bacteria in a healthy gut, sounds pretty important.
For example, gut bacteria affects the stimulation and function of the cells along the vagus nerve.
Furthermore, there are many biological functions, discussed in the book, that prove our microbes have such an enormous effect on our brain health. Dr. Perlmutter explains that gut dysfunction contributes to brain dysfunction.
What can we do?
We’ve got to get the good bacteria in and the best way to do that (for most of us) is to eat probiotic-rich, fermented foods or find a good supplement.
Be cautious of antibiotics, as they can destroy your gut microbiome. Speaking from experience.
Avoid chemicals like BPA.
Try to get as much physical activity as possible.
Go easy on consuming carbohydrates and try to focus on healthy fats.
Drink purified water, it’s important.
There is a list of questions in the introduction to help you gather clues on the health of your gut microbiome, but definitely seek the advice of a medical professional for any diagnosis or treatment.
He was also nice enough to include a seven-day meal plan, along with recipes.
This book has had an unquestionable impact on how I view the relationship between my gut and brain. So far, from the changes suggested, I have seen some improvement.
Have you read the book? I would love to hear your input!
Thanks for reading this post!
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Sachi Reads Daily 