Mind and Gut Connection

Recently I have been on a journey to investigate the relationship between our gut and our mental health. Although I am still in the beginning phase of my research for mind and gut connection, I have stumbled across some fascinating information that I think we all can benefit from.

What You Eat, Is What You Are

This is probably not news to you entirely, but, what we eat is what we are (to some extent). What I mean by this is that our nutrition has a big influence on our mood and brain function. I would like to add a disclaimer that there are things outside of our diet that can affect our mental health, however, our nutrition does play an important role in our mental health.

Cell Function and Diet

There is some ground-breaking research being done on the function of our cells and how this could be impacted by our diet. Basically, on a very simplistic level, there is a very small but important player in our cells called the mitochondria. This organelle plays a vital role in turning food into energy. When the mitochondria are not functioning properly, we can see it come up in ways like tiredness, fatigue, weakness, cognitive disabilities, and other symptoms. Mitochondria give energy to our cells. So, imagine how would we feel if our cells were not producing the proper amount of energy. What would it look like for us if our cells didn’t have enough energy? Another very important question to ask is, “How would our brains (mind) respond if our cells are not getting enough energy? We would probably not feel great. We would probably not behave, think, or live to our potential.

How Diet Affects Levels of Anxiety and Depression

Part of this research involves looking at how diet affects levels of anxiety and depression. As we know, anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues that America is facing. Have you wondered, “Why is there a simultaneous increase in anxiety and depression, and an increase in metabolic disorders in the general population?”

The Mind-Gut Connection

Considering this information, I would like to challenge you to do your own research about the mind-gut connection. I would even say try looking up foods that help your mitochondria function properly and give yourself a test run (of course with the consent of your doctor if needed). See how you feel in three days, one week, one month. Just something to think about. Who knows? It may just be the answer you were looking for.

To discuss more about the mind & gut connection, schedule your appointment with Ruth Rodriguez.