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by Wes

Did you know that most of your happiness comes from the belly? 

Half of the dopamine, and about 90% of the serotonin in your body, is produced inside the intestine. These are the compounds that generate well-being. Share on X

The gut is so important in transmitting and controlling information, that doctors and scientists call it “the second brain”.

Also, the intestine is responsible for the release of more than 30 chemical messengers. These help transmit information from one part of the body to another.

They keep the communication flowing between the body and the brain. This is handled by a complex network of neurons inside your gut.

To keep it all balanced and functioning properly, it is vital to take care of your Gut flora.

What is the Gut flora?

There are around 100 trillion bacteria inside the intestine. An amount that makes up about 4 to 6 pounds of your body weight.

This microbiota lives in symbiosis with the digestive system. It receives shelter and nutrients, and in return it helps in the digestion of foods and in the regulation of the organism. Until a few years ago, most believed that this was all the intestinal flora was good for.

However, recent discoveries suggest that these bacteria function almost like a “third brain.” They produce substances that actively take part in communication between the brain and the gut. 

They can even influence emotions, feelings and behaviors. In addition to this, they also have a say in our predisposition to illness.

The intestines main function is controlling the process of digestion and excretion. But it is also responsible for controlling our antibodies. This means they are deciding which bacteria are allowed to live inside us and which are not.

Mental health is related to intestinal health

The connection between the gut and mental health is so powerful that probiotics may replace antidepressant medications in the future. Share on X

According to an article published in the June 2013 issue of  Biological Psychiatry, even serious and chronic mental health problems – including posttraumatic stress disorder – could be solved with certain probiotics.

Two strains, Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifdobacterium longum, have a calming influence. Part of their effect is by regulating the stress hormones. 

Dr. Emeran Mayer, professor of medicine and psychiatry at the University of California, compared the physical structure of the brains of thousands of volunteers. Using MRI, he was looking for connections between the brain structure and the types of bacteria found in their intestines.

He has found differences in the way certain brain regions are connected, depending on the dominant bacterial species. 

As reported on the NPR radio network website: 

“This suggests that the specific mixing of bacteria in the gut can help determine what kind of brain we have, how our brain circuits develop and are connected .”

How to restore intestinal flora

Take care of your intestinal flora by adopting healthy habits and maintaining a natural and balanced diet. 

Some foods are very rich in nutrients that help keep the digestive system working at full steam. These nutrients are usually found in fermented foods, vegetables and fiber-rich fruits. 

More serious cases of digestive problems do require medical follow-up. Even if you eat your share of yogurts and probiotics.

Here’s how to choose foods that help keep the intestinal flora healthy.

Yogurts with probiotics – These nutrients stimulate the multiplication of bacteria and improve the absorption of nutrients in general. 

They are especially good for people who suffer from gastrointestinal discomfort. Like those who have diarrhea or constipation, and for those who have a deficient microbiota.

Fibers – A diet low in fiber deregulates the intestine. It can cause you to lose parts of the intestinal bacteria. When the gut flora loses its variety of these microorganisms, the absorption of nutrients is also impaired. 

Foods such as beans, soybeans, dark leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains and oats help ensure the necessary quota of fiber.

Whole Grains – These are high in fiber and contain carbohydrates that are absorbed once they reach the large intestine. This aids the growth of the bacteria that are found in that part of the organ. 

Regular consumption of foods such as brown rice, oats, chia, flaxseed and granola helps the bowel to function better. If you eat a lot of cereal, replace the refined grains with integrals.

Vegetables – Vegetarian diets, because of their high fiber content, are extremely beneficial for the balance and health of the intestinal flora. Share on X

Polyphenols – Dark chocolate, grapes, almonds, onions and broccoli contain polyphenols.

The cells of the digestive system cannot absorb polyphenols efficiently. The gut bacteria is responsible for transforming them into their metabolites, which helps the body make use of them.

This process also helps the good gut bacteria flourish and subdues the bacteria that could potentially bring disease.

So, to stay healthy – you need to take care of your gut.

A healthy gut = a healthy and happy you.