In pursuing overall well-being, we often focus on physical health, while neglecting the crucial role our gut plays in mental health. But did you know that a healthy gut can actually improve your mental well-being?
In the latest episode of her Menopause Mastery podcast, Betty sits down with Natasha Trenev, who is known as the mother of probiotics. She shares her insights about how a healthy gut can improve mental health.
The Enteric Nervous System: A Separate Nervous System
It may surprise you to learn that you have a separate nervous system called the enteric nervous system. This intricate network is completely independent of the parasympathetic and regular nervous systems.
The Gut-Brain Connection
The communication between the gut and the brain is vital, because your thoughts and emotions can influence the chemicals produced in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Negative or stressful thoughts can lead to harmful chemicals, creating an unfavorable environment for the beneficial bacteria that reside in your gut.
These bacteria play a crucial role in producing serotonin, which accounts for up to 90% of your body’s serotonin, and approximately 50% of your dopamine, another feel-good chemical. The precursors needed to produce tryptophan and GABA, essential neurotransmitters for mood regulation, are also created in your gut. Thus, maintaining a healthy balance is key.
The Impact of Thoughts on Gut Health
When you experience negative thoughts, such as depression or anxiety, it can disrupt the delicate balance in your gut. Therefore, besides practicing positive mental habits like meditation, it’s equally important to nourish your body with the right probiotic bacteria.
Choosing a probiotic supplement with a reliable delivery system to ensure the bacteria remain alive and effective is crucial. By doing so, you can establish an optimal balance of bacteria, mitigating the production of harmful chemicals caused by unfriendly bacteria or negative thoughts.
Harnessing the Power of a Healthy Gut
By prioritizing your gut health, you can pave the way for improved mental well-being. A healthy gut allows the production of vital neurotransmitters, creating an environment that supports positivity and emotional balance. Cultivating positive mental habits alongside proper nutrition will help you achieve an overall healthy state.
If you’d like to improve your gut health, call (972) 930-0260 to book an appointment with Betty.