On this episode of Evolve Mind Body & Soul, host Ellie Barrett talks about a fascinating and essential topic; the world of the gut microbiome and how the food we eat plays a profound role in shaping not only our physical health, but also our mood and emotional well-being.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The gut microbiome refers to the vast community of trillions of micro-organisms that reside in our digestive system. These microscopic inhabitants include bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes which might sound a bit weird and unsettling at first , but in reality this community is beneficial and vital to our overall health.
- Research has uncovered the fascinating connection between our gut and our brain. This two-way communication system, known as the gut-brain axis, allows the gut and the brain to send signals back and forth. Scientists have found the gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters and other compounds that directly impact our brain chemistry.
- When the gut microbiome is thriving and balanced it promotes the production of beneficial compounds positively affecting our mood, reducing anxiety , and enhancing our feelings of wellbeing. However an imbalanced gut, often caused by poor diet choices, stress or antibiotics, can lead to a decrease in the production of these mood-enhancing compounds contributing to feelings of sadness, stress and even depression.
- Our diet plays a pivotal role in shaping the composition and diversity of our gut microbiome. Highly processed and sugary foods laden with artificial additives can disrupt the delicate balance of our gut leading to an increase in harmful bacteria and an decrease in beneficial microbes, this imbalance can impact our mood and overall mental wellbeing. On the other hand a diet rich in whole unprocessed foods filled with fibre, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods can be incredibly beneficial for nurturing a thriving gut microbiome. These foods provide essential nutrients and microbiotics that act as fuel for the beneficial bacteria in our gut.
BEST MOMENTS
‘imagine your gut as a bustling city teeming with diverse life forms all playing their distinct roles in maintaining a harmonious and balanced environment. When this balance is disrupted it can lead to health issues and even affect our mental wellbeing.’
‘It’s essential to approach our diet with mindfulness and listen to our bodies.’
‘Each person’s gut microbiome is unique so you have to pay attention to how certain foods make you feel.’
‘One of your favourite foods that you eat all the time is actually contributing to your anxiety. Unless you take time to slow down and really slow down and think about what it is that you’re eating you won’t know or recognise that.’
ABOUT THE HOST
Ellie Barrett is the founder of Evolve with Ellie; she works as an intuitive coach and healer. Ellie has always been fascinated by the mind-body connection and has spent years researching, she loves helping people to unlock their potential and find inner peace.
CONTACT
Website: https://evolvewithellie.com/
Insta: @evolve.withellie
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