Anxiety has been known to cause physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, excessive sweating, and gastro problems. Research suggests that gut problems and mental health are correlated.
How are the Gut and the Brain Connected?
The gut and brain are connected in a number of ways. Physically, the vagus nerve connects the stomach to the brain. The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body and controls things such as digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating. The brain is also connected to the stomach through chemicals and neurotransmitters that send signals back and forth.
- Avoid Processed Foods
- Eat a Nutrient Rich Diet
- Change Your Gut Bacteria
- See a Doctor
1) Avoid Processed Foods
You probably hear this all of the time, but it’s absolutely critical to maintaining a healthy stomach and brain. In America, it can be hard to eat healthy when there’s a fast food chain on every corner. However, it’s essential to avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar, processed foods, and fried foods. All of these are bad for your overall health and immune system.
2) Eat a Nutrient Rich Diet
A nutrient-rich diet is not only beneficial for your gastrointestinal tract, but it’s beneficial for your mental health as well. Try to incorporate full servings of fresh fruits and vegetables into every meal. Eat whole grains and lean meats rather than white bread and fatty, processed red meats. You’ll be amazed at how these small changes can improve depression and anxiety while reducing digestion problems.
3) Change Your Gut Bacteria
Your stomach is filled with good and bad bacteria that live. Many stomach problems are directly related to the bacteria levels in your gastrointestinal tract. Try to eat foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics. These are known as healthy bacteria and will balance out the bad bacteria.
Pro Tip: Probiotic supplements can significantly improve your stomach and mental health problems.
4) See a Doctor
If you experience gut problems and mental health issues, it’s mandatory to see a healthcare provider. Doctors have the education and experience to help you feel better. While performing your own research and making health changes will help you, a doctor can analyze your specific set of symptoms and give you a proper diagnosis.
A Healthy Body
Our bodies are connected in an infinite number of ways. Eating healthy and changing toxic habits will improve your physical, mental, and overall health.
Are you struggling with gut problems and mental health? Join the conversation to talk with our team about finding the best healthcare provider for your individual needs.
