Monday, 23 June 2014

The gut- mind connection



The gut- mind connection

The Gut brain link always fascinates me, mainstream medicine neglect this connection, equally as fascinating. It has been proven emotional responses can trigger physiological disease states and symptomology.
The brain-gastrointestinal axis and inflammation in these areas exerts cytokines and other mediators leading to further disease progression. Those with compromised gut tissue (eg colitis, celiac etc) will have an increase in production of inflammatory cytokines (interluekins etc) what happens is these inflammatory messages are sent for the white blood cells to deal with the problem, once released into the blood stream they hit the parasympathetic nervous system/ vagus nerve and that goes to the brain, OR in cases when inflammation is greater these cytokines leak out and cross the blood brain barrier directly and initiate an inflammatory action where they influence neurotransmitter release which then changes your behaviour! Therefore one way to support your brain is to deal with the gut.
The intrinsic connection becomes easier to grasp once you know that your brain and gut are created out of the same tissue. During foetal development, one part turns into your CNS while the other develops into your enteric nervous system. These two are connected via the vagus nerve. This is what connects the two ‘brains’ together. All neurotransmitters are found in the gut, serotonin (our feel good neurotransmitter) has the greatest concentration in the intestines.
The gut microbiota can influence mood, memory and behaviour. Conditions associated with an imbalance in the gut flora include, depression, anxiety, ADD and learning difficulties to name a few. Poor diet, lifestyle and antibiotic use can all influence this balance of good and bad bacteria.
At Cranbourne family chiropractic and wellness our naturopaths have comprehensive testing to determine the health of your gut and what impact that’s having on your health and wellbeing. 
 Call now to arrange your appointment to see one of our Naturopaths and get your gut back on track. 59984554 or visit us online, www.cranbournefamilychiro.com.au 

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