Stuck in a rut? Get to know your gut

Got the blues? Befriending your gut may offer a simple solution to unexplained mood swings.

Known as the “second brain” to some, your gut can have a considerable impact upon your mood and the quality of your mental health.

It has been widely documented that changes to the nervous system can have a direct influence on the quality of your gut health.

Historically, less attention has been placed on the myriad of ways that bug-balance can impact one’s mood. However recent testing has revealed that we have up to 5,600 species and strains of bacteria in our gut, all of which play a pivotal role in ensuring we keep healthy and happy.

These vast amounts of bacteria secrete important substances which ensure proper metabolism function.

Frequent use of antibiotics, an infection/parasite, or an insufficient diet can release harmful secretions into the digestive system, which in turn, causes an imbalance in the gut. These same bugs in our gut are also responsible for the production of neurotransmitters, which dictate the way in which we think and feel. For example, our gut produces approximately 90 per cent of the body’s serotonin, a major “happy chemical” in our body.

Recent studies have focused on developing a better understanding of the gut-brain axis (GBA) – the pathway that exists from our gut to brain, linked by the vagus nerve. The GBA consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, connecting the emotional and cognitive centres of the brain with digestive functions.

How to fix your gut woes

Numerous studies have shown both probiotics and prebiotics can drastically improve digestion, helping to ward off diseases, and improve intestinal function.

The most widely used probiotic strains are lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria, as they are able to survive the passage to the gut.

Probiotics are readily available as dietary supplements in tablet and powder forms, or as a component in yoghurts and fermented dairy drinks.

Accredited practising dietitian, Milena Katz, Randwick, NSW, claims each individual’s gut bacteria are unique, akin to a fingerprint, meaning there is no one-size-fits-all advice for gut management.

Katz says it’s a case of trial and error, advising patients with gut problems to try high-strength probiotic capsules over a six week period to see if symptoms subside.

Probiotics can be used in conjunction with prebiotics, which are non-digestible food ingredients proven to increase the presence of “good” bacteria.

Foods with prebiotics include; bananas, asparagus, leeks, onions, garlic, chicory and wholegrains.

Your local Blooms The Chemist pharmacy stocks a variety of probiotics.

Ask your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist about which probiotic is right for you.

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