The Microbiome: Linking Gut and Brain Health

AThe microbiome is a community of microorganisms composed of bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses that live in the mucosal surfaces of the body (such as the intestinal tract). Recently the explosion of scientific data has linked the human microbiome with immunity, inflammation, autoimmunity, and ultimately the potential of the brain to heal and recover. In 2008 the National Institute of Health’s Microbiome Project highlighted the importance of the microbial environment in the gastrointestinal tract.

The new science shows how the brain affects the microbiome and how the microbiome affects the brain. The microbiome is populated by 100 TRILLION CELLs, more microbes than there are stars in the sky!

The microbiome is influenced by what we eat, drink, digestive capacity, stress, and antibiotic use. Your microbiome is responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, blood sugar balance, detoxification and even the overall function of your immune response. The microbiome produces substances that are fuel for cells lining the gut, neurotransmitters, amino acids, and vitamins.

Individual studies implicate gut dysfunction with the beginning of disease pathology of conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, Traumatic brain injury and Multiple sclerosis.

Diversity of the microbial population is the most important feature of a healthy gut, immune system, and ultimately a healthy brain.

A HEALTY GUT = A HEALTY BRAIN