The Gut-Brain Connection

As promised we share information on Design, Organization and Health. This month we focus on Health, specifically the Gut-Brain connection. Did you know that your gut secretes Serotonin, a dominant hormone for feeling happy and well?
Serotonin:

• Is a neurotransmitter (hormone) that contributes to feelings of happiness.
• Helps control your body clock.
• Is produced by your gut cells and microbes living in your gut.
• Is negatively affected by too much sugary and processed food.

Hidden in the walls of the digestive system, we have this “brain in your gut” that is revolutionizing medicine’s understanding of the links between digestion, mood, health and even the way you think. Your gut plays a big role in how your immune system functions. When the gut is unhealthy, it can lead to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and can also affect brain health.
This knowledge made me think of so many young people (and older) suffering from depression and severe intestinal issues. Sugary and processed foods are far worse for us than most people know.
A couple of tips to get back on track:

• Cut way back on sugary and processed foods.
• Add prebiotics and probiotics to your daily diet.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, fermented foods, probiotics and other polyphenol-rich foods may improve your gut health, which may benefit the chemical connections between your gut and your brain, and help you lead a happier life.

Sincerely,

Shoshanna Richek, Organizational Designer