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The image is a digitally produced illustrated graphic of a pink brain.  Text reads: Probiotics for Mental Health & Digestion

Probiotics for Mental Health & Digestion

nutrition supplements Aug 11, 2021

 A gut in distress can impact mood. In fact, our guts have such an extensive network of neurons, that some scientists have given the gut the nickname "second brain." It's now understood that our second brain has a significant impact on mood and anxiousness. In short, a healthy gut feeds better mental health.*

Unfortunately, many day-to-day stresses and environmental exposures can contribute to a lack of helpful bacteria or overabundance of unhelpful bacteria (pathogenic bacteria, fungi, or parasites) in the digestive tract. Stress can interfere with the development of healthy gut bacteria and increase inflammation. Leaky gut, inflammation, and dysbiosis, can all negatively affect the core digestive processes. A stressed-out gut can also occur after an acute illness, after a course of antibiotics, when experiencing other bothersome GI symptoms, or due to unhealthy dietary practices.*

When some damage has occurred, it can be helpful to rebalance the microbiome with probiotics (the healthy bacteria) and to boost the necessary nutrients these healthy bacteria need to survive and thrive with special probiotic foods called prebiotics.*

Remember, supplements are generally not the only solution and are most often short-term supports. Exposure to a variety of appropriate micro-organisms in daily activities and a diverse diet (try our Resilient Diet) is essential to continue to maintain a healthy gut (and brain).*

HIGH QUALITY PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS AT OUR PARTNER STORE, FULLSCRIPT

Douglas Labs Multi-Probiotic 40 Billion

Please note: The product link goes to our partner store, Fullscript (with an ongoing 10% discount for you + free shipping on orders over $50). You must have an account to view products and shop. Create your free account at: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nmh/signup. Learn more about Fullscript here.

 

 

Douglas Labs Multi-Probiotic 40 Billion

 

 

 

 

*Note: Some of the supplements discussed in this article can cause side effects, but many people tolerate them much better than prescription medications. They are generally considered safe, however, they should not be started without your doctor’s knowledge and supervision. If you are taking medication already, be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any of these items. If you are considering going off medication, remember never to stop your medication suddenly—always consult with your doctor about how to safely taper off any psychiatric medication. See termsThese statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 


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Healthy Gut Basics

Your gut (AKA gastrointestinal tract) primarily includes the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. A collection of micro-organisms call your gut home- a housing situation often called the "gut microbiome." I call these helpful micro-organisms "good bugs" and they include a zoo of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and fungi. Good bugs communicate with your brain constantly via chemical messengers and nerves. Some help manufacture neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA and also help make vitamins needed for optimal brain functioning. Good bugs also support your response to stress and contribute to healthy immune system activities. Given their big jobs, it's vital that you take good care of your bugs. Use the strategies below to help them thrive. Continue reading...

 

 

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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. See our terms for more information.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. 

 

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