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Darm health and brain – the underestimated connection


For a long time, the intestine was considered a pure digestive body, a kind of biological drain pipe that processed food and extracted nutrients. The fact that he plays such a decisive role in our mental well -being was not known for a long time in medical Science – even unthinkable. The idea that intestinal bacteria could influence our brain met with skepticism. Because for decades it was believed that the brain was completely isolated by the so-called blood-brain barrier. Nothing out of the intestine, one thought, could achieve the center of our thoughts and emotions.

But recent research has fundamentally changed this picture. Science has discovered that the intestine and the brain are in constant communication – a connection that is Darm-brain axis is called. This axis works over different mechanisms: via nerve pathways, especially the vagus nerve, and by chemical messenger substances that are produced by the microbes in the intestine. The intestinal microbioma – the billions of bacteria, mushrooms and other microorganisms that colonize our intestine – play a central role in this. It produces neurotransmitter such as serotonin, which is often referred to as a “happiness hormone”, or GABA, which has a calming effect on our nervous system. In fact, around 90 percent of the body’s own serotonin are formed in the intestine.

Recently, studies have shown that tiny plastic particles, known as micro and nanoplasty, are not only omnipresent in the environment, but have also been demonstrated in human organs, including the brain.

Darm-brain axis-what does that mean for our Health?

The discovery of this tight interaction between the intestine and the brain has far -reaching consequences. Studies show that a dysbalance in intestinal microbioma can be connected to anxiety disorders, depression and even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. Chronic stress and unhealthy Nutrition can disrupt the composition of the microbiome and thus lead to mental and physical symptoms.

In order to support the intestinal brain axis and promote mental well-being, some aspects should be taken into account:

  • Optimize nutrition
    • A high -fiber diet with lots of fruit, vegetables and whole grains promotes a healthy intestinal flora.
    • Fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi contain natural probiotics that support the good intestinal bacteria.
    • Sugar and heavily processed foods should be reduced because they negatively influence the balance of the intestinal flora.
  • Stress management and Mindfulness
    • Chronic stress can damage the microbioma sustainably. Relaxation techniques such as Meditation, breathing exercises, gentle movement such as Yoga, and also dance 5rhythms and ecstatic dance can help. The latter should be number one in Things are depression prevention.
    • Regular walks in nature or conscious breaks in everyday life support the inner balance.
  • Use probiotics and prebiotics in a targeted manner
    • Probiotic nutritional supplements can be useful, especially after antibiotic treatment or long -lasting digestive problems.
    • Prebiotics, i.e. food for the good intestinal bacteria, can be found in food such as garlic, onions or oatmeal.
  • Sufficient sleep and movement
    • A healthy sleep rhythm not only has a positive effect on the brain, but also on the intestinal flora.
    • Regular exercise, especially endurance sports, has a proven effect on a diverse and healthy intestinal flora.

Darm-brain axis-a paradigm shift in medicine

The findings for Darm-brain axis Change fundamentally how we look at health. They show that physical and mental health are inextricably linked and that a healthy spirit also needs a healthy body. The idea that disturbed intestinal flora can favor depression or anxiety may still appear unusual – but it is based on solid scientific knowledge. The good news is: everyone can help strengthen their microbioma through a conscious way of life and thus not only positively influence digestion, but also the mental balance.

Here is information about “leaky good”



Translated from Risingup.at – Please report errors

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