neurotransmitters Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Cognitive Decline Linked to Processed Foods, NEW Research Reveals

AHA Publisher — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:22 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – It is well established that highly processed foods can increase your risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, certain cancers, and heart disease – not to mention it can seriously expand your waistline – but now new research shows that it can significantly impact brain function. This groundbreaking research was presented in August 2022 at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in San Diego. It detailed the ways that these highly processed foods can play a significant role in increasing a person’s rate of cognitive decline. In fact, it only takes about 100 calories from these foods to negatively affect your health. That’s about two cookies. Clear Evidence: Processed Foods Create Inflammation, Affect Brain’s Neurotransmitters Processed foods are the ready-to-eat foods that line grocery store shelves. Sugary drinks, instant noodles, canned soups, and frozen meals are some of the biggest culprits. Hot dogs are also on the list, and even many foods that are labeled as “healthy” or marketed as low fat, low calorie, or low carb. The problem with these foods is that they contain many substances that, truth be told, the human body is not meant to ingest. When these substances enter the body, they begin to wreak havoc, creating inflammation that can affect the brain’s neurotransmitters. What’s more, they operate at the micro level and introduce billions of bacteria cells that attack the body’s systems and impair functions on several levels, including cognition. How to Make BETTER Choices and Lower Your Consumption of Highly Processed Foods While processed foods may seem more convenient because you don’t have to do much to prepare, you pay for that “convenience” with your health. The best way to reduce your consumption of highly processed foods is to just stop. Replace those foods with natural, whole foods that include grass fed meats, wild caught salmon, organic fruits, vegetables, sprouts, nuts and seeds. It really is that simple. If you don’t have time to prepare a fresh meal every day, meal prepping can be a tremendous help. There are companies that do the work for you, and you can choose what meals you want. Just be sure these services offer clean, organic, and fresh options. If you don’t want the expense of purchasing your meal prep kits you can always do it yourself. Purchase some containers that are freezer and dishwasher safe, then choose a day to cook and prep. That way, you will have your own version of fast food without all the substances that you don’t want. There are many books and websites devoted to meal prep, so finding a good plan shouldn’t be difficult. You should also make sure you are incorporating exercise into your daily routine and stay well hydrated. These two things are integral for flushing toxins out of your system. If you are ingesting even small amounts of highly processed food, engaging in these two activities may help. Exercise will cause you to sweat, which removes toxins, and water can help flush them out. Your health is important. Don’t compromise it because you would rather eat foods that are convenient instead of foods that are good for you. You will pay for it in the long run – and it’s very expensive. Sources for this article include: MedicalXpress.com To read the original article click here.

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What is Nutritional Psychiatry?

AHA Publisher — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 08:00:05 +0000

Joelle Hanson-Baiden, BSc via News-Medical – Nutritional psychiatry is the practice of using food and food supplements as alternative treatments for mental health disorders. Most current treatments for mental health disorders – from psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia to neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia – focus on treating the symptoms of the condition. Though many are effective at treating these symptoms, they are often paired with severe side effects. Over recent years, there has been a considerable increase in research surrounding links between psychiatric disorders and diet. As such, there has been an increase in research surrounding nutritional-based treatments for these disorders. From these studies, different treatment targets have been identified, including the gut biome and nutrient deficiencies. Current research is promising and provides insight into alternative interventions for treating psychiatric disorders. Potential Pathways that Link Diet and Psychiatric Disorders Diet might be associated with severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, psychosis, and dementia. There are several potential pathways research has found to be involved, such as the gut biome and nutrient deficiencies. The Gut Biome Research suggests that there is a link between the gut biome and the development of psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. The gut biome consists of bacteria, fungi, and viruses found in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that individuals with schizophrenia and psychosis present with different gut microbial compositions compared to non-psychiatric individuals. In a study comparing the gut microbial composition of individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP) and non-FEP individuals, researchers found that the composition of the gut in: “Numbers of Lactobacillus group bacteria were elevated in FEP-patients and significantly correlated with severity along different symptom domains.” (Schwarz et al., 2018). These results suggest that alterations in the microbial composition of the gut can increase one’s risk of developing a psychiatric disorder. Research suggests that the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) underlies this risk. The MGBA connects the intestines with the central nervous system and studies have shown that individuals with schizophrenia can present with disruptions of the MGBA. “Several interactions between the gut and the brain have been observed, including vagal nerve activation, immune system modification, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and alterations of neurotransmitter pathways.” (Teasdale et al., 2020) Nutrient Deficiencies Nutrient deficiencies are caused by insufficient intake of said nutrients or poor absorption by the body. Research shows that nutrient deficiencies are one of the risk factors for developing mental disorders. Example deficiencies include vitamin B9 (folate) B6 and B12 deficiencies. These B vitamins are essential for DNA and protein synthesis. Both of which play a key role in brain development and cognition. Several studies have shown that individuals with schizophrenia have lower serum vitamin B6 and B9 (folate) levels than non-psychiatric individuals. A deficiency in vitamin D has also been shown to be highly prevalent in people with schizophrenia and dementia. “There are stronger associations between severe vitamin D deficiency (<10 ng/ml) and both dementia and AD compared to moderate vitamin D deficiency (10-20ng/ml).” (Chai et al., 2019). Vitamin D is necessary for modulating neurotransmitter release, including dopamine – known to be imbalanced in mental disorders. Brain Food? How Nutritional Psychiatry Targets these Pathways The International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research (ISNPR) was formed to give guidance to clinicians and healthcare workers on offering nutritional treatments to patients with mental health issues. The ISNPR has issued many recommendations in recent years. These recommendations are heavily focused on promoting an optimal gut biome composition. The ISNPR suggests that changes in the type of food eaten can improve the composition of the gut biome. Following traditional diets such as Mediterranean, Scandinavian, or Japanese diets is recommended. These diets consist of high volumes of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and a limited intake of processed foods. The concentration of bacteria in the gut can also be altered with probiotics – live bacteria and yeasts. These can be found in fermented foods (e.g., kimchi and sauerkraut) and yogurt. Probiotics can also be taken as supplements. Alongside improving the gut biome, the ISNPR also recommends the intake of nutrient supplements. These include vitamins B9, B6, B12, and vitamin D. Research has shown that administering these vitamins is effective in shortening the duration of illness in individuals with psychosis and schizophrenia. Food for Thought: Traditional vs Nutritional Psychiatry, Which is More Effective? Nutritional psychiatry is non-invasive, has very few side effects, and is easily accessible to all. Compared to nutritional psychiatry, traditional treatments can have very severe side effects and do little for deteriorating physical health. The evidence for the effects of nutritional treatments on symptomatology is still fresh as many clinical trials are still in progress. Despite this, nutritional psychiatry allows for the physical health of people with severe mental health issues such as schizophrenia and psychosis, which have otherwise been neglected. Neglected physical health in these individuals has led to higher rates of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases. In turn, this has led to a large decrease in life expectancy. This together with the symptoms of the condition, side effects from medication, and cognitive impairments causes a significant decrease in the quality of life of these individuals. Nutritional psychiatry, therefore, acts to improve the quality of life of people who suffer from mental health illnesses. Nutritional psychiatry can therefore impact the lives of these people greater than traditional psychiatry alone. Further in-depth research is needed to widen this impact. To read more about the role nutrition plays in health, click here! References: Chai, B., Gao, F., Wu, R., Dong, T., Gu, C., Lin, Q., & Zhang, Y. (2019). Vitamin D deficiency as a risk factor for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: an updated meta-analysis. BMC Neurology, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-019-1500-6 Chiang, M., Natarajan, R., & Fan, X. (2016). Vitamin D in schizophrenia: a clinical review. Evidence Based Mental Health, 19(1), 6–9. https://doi.org/10.1136/eb-2015-102117 Grosso, G. (2021). Nutritional Psychiatry: How Diet Affects Brain through Gut Microbiota. Nutrients, 13(4), 1282. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13041282 Schwarz, E., Maukonen, J., Hyytiäinen, T., Kieseppä, T., Orešič, M., Sabunciyan, S., Mantere, O., Saarela, M., Yolken, R., & Suvisaari, J. (2018). Analysis of microbiota in first episode psychosis identifies preliminary associations with symptom severity and treatment response. Schizophrenia Research, 192, 398–403. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.schres.2017.04.017 Teasdale, S., Mörkl, S., & Müller-Stierlin, A. S. (2020). Nutritional psychiatry in the treatment of psychotic disorders: Current hypotheses and research challenges. Brain, Behavior, & Immunity – Health, 5, 100070. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbih.2020.100070 To read the original article click here.

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Your Gut Senses the Difference Between Real Sugar and Artificial Sweetener

AHA Publisher — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 08:00:19 +0000

Duke University via Newswise – DURHAM, N.C. – Your taste buds may or may not be able to tell real sugar from a sugar substitute like Splenda, but there are cells in your intestines that can and do distinguish between the two sweet solutions. And they can communicate the difference to your brain in milliseconds. Not long after the sweet taste receptor was identified in the mouths of mice 20 years ago, scientists attempted to knock those taste buds out. But they were surprised to find that mice could still somehow discern and prefer natural sugar to artificial sweetener, even without a sense of taste. The answer to this riddle lies much further down in the digestive tract, at the upper end of the gut just after the stomach, according to research led by Diego Bohórquez, an associate professor of medicine and neurobiology in the Duke University School of Medicine. In a paper appearing Jan. 13 in Nature Neuroscience, “we’ve identified the cells that make us eat sugar, and they are in the gut,” Bohórquez said. Infusing sugar directly into the lower intestine or colon does not have the same effect. The sensing cells are in the upper reaches of the gut, he said. Having discovered a gut cell called the neuropod cell, Bohórquez with his research team has been pursuing this cell’s critical role as a connection between what’s inside the gut and its influence in the brain. The gut, he argues, talks directly to the brain, changing our eating behavior. And in the long run, these findings may lead to entirely new ways of treating diseases. Originally termed enteroendrocrine cells because of their ability to secrete hormones, specialized neuropod cells can communicate with neurons via rapid synaptic connections and are distributed throughout the lining of the upper gut. In addition to producing relatively slow-acting hormone signals, the Bohórquez research team has shown that these cells also produce fast-acting neurotransmitter signals that reach the vagus nerve and then the brain within milliseconds. Bohórquez said his group’s latest findings further show that neuropods are sensory cells of the nervous system just like taste buds in the tongue or the retinal cone cells in the eye that help us see colors. “These cells work just like the retinal cone cells that that are able to sense the wavelength of light,” Bohórquez said. “They sense traces of sugar versus sweetener and then they release different neurotransmitters that go into different cells in the vagus nerve, and ultimately, the animal knows ‘this is sugar’ or ‘this is sweetener.’” Using lab-grown organoids from mouse and human cells to represent the small intestine and duodenum (upper gut), the researchers showed in a small experiment that real sugar stimulated individual neuropod cells to release glutamate as a neurotransmitter. Artificial sugar triggered the release of a different neurotransmitter, ATP. Using a technique called optogenetics, the scientists were then able to turn the neuropod cells on and off in the gut of a living mouse to show whether the animal’s preference for real sugar was being driven by signals from the gut. The key enabling technology for the optogenetic work was a new flexible waveguide fiber developed by MIT scientists. This flexible fiber delivers light throughout the gut in a living animal to trigger a genetic response that silenced the neuropod cells. With their neuropod cells switched off, the animal no longer showed a clear preference for real sugar. “We trust our gut with the food we eat,” Bohórquez said. “Sugar has both taste and nutritive value and the gut is able to identify both.” “Many people struggle with sugar cravings, and now we have a better understanding of how the gut senses sugars (and why artificial sweeteners don’t curb those cravings),” said co-first author Kelly Buchanan, a former Duke University School of Medicine student who is now an Internal Medicine resident at Massachusetts General Hospital. “We hope to target this circuit to treat diseases we see every day in the clinic.” In future work, Bohórquez said he will be showing how these cells also recognize other macronutrients. “We always talk about ‘a gut sense,’ and say things like ‘trust your gut,’ well, there’s something to this,” Bohórquez said. “We can change a mouse’s behavior from the gut,” Bohórquez said, which gives him great hope for new therapies targeting the gut. To read the original article click here.

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Elevated Levels of Serotonin Can Curb Cocaine Addiction in Mice

AHA Publisher — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 07:00:36 +0000

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) via News-Medical – Elevated levels of serotonin can prevent the development of compulsive cocaine seeking and addiction in mice, researchers report. The findings help to resolve the biological markers of addiction risk. Like other addictive drugs, cocaine acts by blocking the reuptake of key neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, resulting in its euphoric effects. However, not all who use the drug become addicted – only about 20% of cocaine users lose control and continue to compulsively use the drug despite adverse consequences. What makes some users susceptible to addiction risk isn’t well known. Although previous studies have suggested that the differential efficacy of the brain serotonin system could play a role in developing a cocaine addiction, the relevant brain circuits and processes that underly the transition from casual to compulsive use remain elusive. In this study, Yue Li and colleagues report the discovery of a mechanism that reveals a modulatory role of serotonin in preventing the development of compulsive cocaine seeking and addiction in mice. In a series of experiments using wild-type and transgenic mice, Li et al.show how cocaine binds with serotonin transporters to block reuptake, which results in elevated levels of extracellular serotonin. This buildup activates the serotonin receptor 5-HT1Band causes presynaptic depression that inhibits synaptic transmission between the orbitofrontal cortex and the dorsal striatum, preventing wild-type mice from becoming addicted. However, in transgenic mice whose serotonin transporters did not bind with cocaine and thus prevented the accumulation of extracellular serotonin, compulsive cocaine-seeking behavior was elevated. According to the authors, the findings suggest that serotonin plays an essential role in modulating the risk of developing addiction. “Further studies should clarify the neural mechanism underlying serotonin modulation of the transition to compulsion in drug addition, what agents specific to serotonin receptors can be used and when these agents can be administered to potentially treat drug addiction,” write Katsuhiko Miyazaki and Kayoko Miyazaki in a related Perspective. To read the original article click here.

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Drinking THIS Popular Beverage Slashes Depression and Suicide Risk by Half, According to Study

AHA Publisher — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 07:00:30 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – In the song “9 to 5,” from the 1980 movie of the same name, singer Dolly Parton refers to coffee as a “cup of ambition.” Now, emerging research indicates that coffee’s potential benefits extend far beyond increasing motivation; according to one study, coffee may even help prevent suicide. Other recent studies show that coffee can help protect against dementia, Parkinson’s disease, as well as a host of other serious conditions. The research is quite interesting. Coffee Consumption Cuts Risk of Suicide Almost in Half Although the results may sound like a coffee advertising executive’s dream come true, the research on coffee and suicide was conducted by professors of epidemiology and nutrition at the highly credible Harvard School of Public Health, and published in July 2013 in The World Journal of Biological Psychiatry. The study, which took over two decades to complete and involved nearly a quarter of a million participants, showed that people who drank two to three cups of coffee a day are at much lower risk of killing themselves than drinkers of decaffeinated coffee and non-coffee drinkers. In fact, daily, moderate coffee consumption slashed suicide rates by almost 50 percent – a truly astounding figure. One can’t help but think that if a pharmaceutical antidepressant achieved this type of dramatic benefit, manufacturers would be shouting it from the rooftops. Of course, it almost goes without saying, we are not suggesting that people drink any of the popular brands – sold in coffee shops – loaded with horrible (added) sweeteners and other junk ingredients. As with anything you choose to consume, it should be of the highest quality sources to reduce the risk of toxicity from chemicals. Back to the study: the results, although surprising, didn’t come out of the blue; past epidemiological studies have shown lower rates of depression among coffee drinkers. Researchers believe that coffee’s mood-lifting effects stem from the way it increases the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline. WARNING: Ingesting Excessive Caffeine Can Still Be Problematic The researchers stopped short of advising that people suffering from depression increase their coffee intake. Noting that most people naturally adjust their caffeine levels to an amount that is optimal for them, the team added that drinking more than three cups of coffee a day – or ingesting over 400 milligrams of caffeine – carries no additional benefit, and can cause unpleasant side effects. In fact, a Finnish study showed that individuals who drank large quantities of coffee – eight and nine cups a day – actually had a higher suicide risk than moderate coffee drinkers. According to just-released research, caffeine in coffee can actually help to prevent Parkinson’s disease According to a Swedish study published in July 2014 in the scientific journal PLoS One, coffee – along with the presence of a certain genetic mutation – can help prevent Parkinson’s disease. While both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of the neurodegenerative condition, researchers have found that variations in one specific gene – a glutamate receptor gene known as GRIN2A – can help to protect against it. Caffeine, which integrates with the dopamine receptor, works in conjunction with the genetic mutation to lower Parkinson’s risk. Organic Coffee Has More to Offer Than Just Its Caffeine Content Coffee has extremely high levels of potent antioxidants, including trigonelline, catechol, and N-methylpyrinidium. In fact, researchers say that an ordinary cup of coffee contains 1,000 different compounds. Further study is needed to explore the full effects of these beneficial substances. Meanwhile, evidence of the link between coffee and longer life continues to accumulate. In a study of 400,000 participants conducted by the National Cancer Institute and the American Association of Retired People and published in 2012 in New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that older adults who drank multiple cups of coffee (every day) – whether decaf or “high-test” – had lower risks of death overall than non-coffee drinkers. Participants were less likely to die from heart and respiratory disease, stroke, infection, and diabetes, as well as less likely to suffer fatal injuries and accidents. Other studies have linked coffee drinking to better blood vessel health and to reduced risk of certain cancers, including oral cancer, liver cancer, and a lethal form of prostate cancer. Coffee May Not Be Appropriate for Everyone According to Mayo Clinic, up to 400 milligrams of caffeine, a day is safe for most healthy adults. However, children should not ingest caffeine at all, and teens should not consume more than 100 milligrams a day. Caffeine, which is classified as a stimulant, can cause adverse effects in some individuals, including anxiety, insomnia, irritability, stomach upset, and muscle tremors. Taking certain medications or herbs along with coffee can intensify the effects of caffeine. And, of course, people with anxiety disorders should avoid caffeinated coffee. If you are in doubt about safe caffeine consumption, talk to a trusted integrative physician. Finally, again, for maximum health benefit – look for fair trade, organic coffee that is free of pesticides and chemicals. Then, enjoy your cup of “joe.” From what the latest research tells us, a cup of fresh-brewed, flavorful organic coffee really is good to the last drop. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov ScienceDaily.com ScienceDaily.com NIH.gov MayoClinic.org To read the original article click here.

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NEW Study Reveals Shocking Connection Between Fast Food and Mental Distress

AHA Publisher — Wed, 05 May 2021 07:00:56 +0000

Damon Hines via NaturalHealth365 – Today’s food contains non-food ingredients that your grandmother and great-grandmother wouldn’t have recognized as food. In fact, according to journalist and food writer Mark Bittman in his new book Animal, Vegetable, Junk, close to 50% of the food that’s available today is in the form of ultra-processed junk food. While there’s a well-established relationship between diet and physical health, the associations between diet and mental health remain largely a gray area – within the “conventional” world, and it’s one that’s being increasingly looked at by scientists and researchers. Cheap food has a terrible impact on public health. According to Bittman, as more countries switch from a traditional diet to a more American diet, rates of chronic disease go up. In a new study published in the journal Nutrients, researchers at Binghamton and Stony Brook University insist there is also growing evidence that dietary factors affect mental health. Key findings of the study include the associations that mental distress has with caffeine and fast food consumption. Obesity and Chronic Diseases Are Only the Tip of the Iceberg: Research Shows Fast Foods Cause Even MORE Harm The more fast food is consumed, the greater the risk of anxiety and depression. It’s a dietary thesis that’s backed up by numerous observational studies. For example, a 2019 study looking at adults over the age of 50 found a link between higher levels of anxiety and diets high in (toxic) saturated fat and added sugars. A separate study in 2019 found that fast food was a factor in rising teen depression. “The consumption of foods high in sodium and low in potassium may contribute to depression through multiple mechanisms, including direct effects on neurotransmitters and neural function,” the researchers concluded in the study published in Physiological Reports. Meanwhile, according to research published in Public Health Nutrition and prepared by the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the University of Navarra, in Spain, fast food can increase the risk of falling into depression by up to 51%. Finally, a multi-country analysis of 41 studies found that foods containing a lot of contaminated fat or sugar, or were processed, lead to “systemic inflammation,” which can lead directly to depression. The bottom line: there’s nothing happy about those “Happy Meals.” Processed Foods Are a Trap. Here Is Why Creating Healthy Eating Habits Pays Dividends In the emerging field of Nutritional Psychiatry, researchers are asking one question: Does diet help prevent mental health conditions? Yes, it does. But part of the problem is that ultra-processed foods are cheap, fast, and widely available. Therefore it’s easy for consumers to fall into a poor dietary pattern, one that may not only lead to chronic disease and obesity but increased anxiety and depression. What can you do? Eat a healthy diet characterized by high intakes of organic fruit, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, low-fat dairy, and antioxidants. Don’t just steer clear of fast food but also avoid “fast groceries” – that 90% of the middle part of the supermarket where processed, high-calorie junk food thrives, conveniently packaged and engineered to be craveable, even though your grandmother and great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize those non-food products as food. Sources for this article include: Medicalnewstoday.com Medicalnewstoday.com Theguardian.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Why You Should “Trust Your Gut” — Your Second Brain

AHA Publisher — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 08:00:40 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Have you ever had a “gut feeling” about something? Well, it turns out you may want to pay attention to that feeling because researchers now consider the gut to be the “second brain” of the human body! It turns out there are more than 100 million neurons in your intestinal system. Referred to as the “enteric nervous system,” this brain in the gut acts very similarly to the brain in the head. The gut can receive impulses, record experiences, and respond to emotions. The Micro-Biome and Neurotransmitters The 100 million neurons in the gut interact with chemicals that control their function called neurotransmitters. It turns out that a large portion of the neurotransmitters in the body are produced by bacteria in the gut! These bacteria make up what is called the micro-biome. This refers to the ecosystem of bacteria in your gut. The micro-biome is responsible for creating up to 90% of the body’s serotonin and about 50% of the body’s dopamine. Moreover, the intestines produce and co-regulate 30 other neurotransmitters that are utilized by the central nervous system to regulate mood, stress levels, sleep patterns, mental functioning and a number of other essential body processes. Obviously, the second brain is responsible for much more than just digestion. So maybe those gut feelings actually are giving you some valuable information! However, the true nature of this incredibly complex system is still under research. Your Gut Affects Your Mind A study published in Gastroenterology showed that women who were given probiotic yogurt twice a day for 4 weeks had a calmer and more controlled reaction when shown images of various facial expressions. The bacteria in the yogurt included Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains which are found in Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Biotics Ultra Blend Probiotics formula. Other research in mice has correlated certain strains of gut bacteria with anxiety. Mice specifically raised to have no bacteria in their gut were inoculated with bacteria from the guts of anxious mice. The inoculated mice then proceeded to exhibit anxious behavior. This has huge implications in how powerfully the bacteria in our gut can affect how we feel. Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Mind If you or your loved ones suffer from mental disorders such as anxiety or depression, then this research is incredibly promising. By taking steps to balance and improve the health of your gut you can make positive changes in how you feel on a day-to-day basis. Here are a few tips to help you heal your gut: Reduce Your Added Sugar Intake – Pathogenic bacteria thrive on high sugar diets Eat More Fermented Foods – This includes sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, kimchi, kvass, and raw cheese. Use a High Quality Probiotic – Living Probiotic, Living Chia, and Fermented Green Supremefood are all good options. Eat More Healthy Fats – Coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and Maximum MCT Oil all help subdue pathogenic bacteria. Eat your fats away from your probiotics so that you do not kill off the good guys! Implementing these simple changes will help balance the bacterial diversity in your gut making you more mentally and physically resilient so that the next time you get a “gut feeling” you will know that you can trust it! More and more, science is proving that a healthy digestive system is the key to a healthy brain and body—and the power to keep your gut healthy lies directly with you! Get Dr. Colbert’s Healthy Gut Zone book today to help you understand the connection between your gut and your health. You will learn that whatever inflames your gut will eventually inflame your brain and the rest of your body. Making the right food choices will become the medicine in which you will walk and live in divine health. References https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/06/gut-bacteria-on-the-brain/395918/ http://www.psyking.net/id36.htm https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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Want a BETTER Immune System? Find Out What Integrative Physicians Tout as the “Key to Success”

AHA Publisher — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 08:32:33 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – There is nothing particularly attractive or healthful-sounding about the phrase “gut bacteria.” In fact, one could say it sounds fairly unappealing! (Unless you understood what we’ll tell you today.) In truth, gut bacteria – the thriving community composed of trillions of microbes in the digestive tract – just might be the best friend your body never knew it had. Also known as the gut microbiome and the gut flora, this collection of bacteria, viruses, and fungi plays an essential role in regulating digestion, brain function, and mood – and even helps to sustain life itself. Now, a new study shows the amazing extent to which gut bacteria influence the immune system – and even gives rise to hopes that the microbiome could facilitate the success of bone marrow transplants in patients with lethal cancers of the blood. Beneficial Gut Bacteria Can Do Wonders for Your Immune System, New Study Says With 70 percent of the immune system located in the gut, it’s not surprising that the microbiome plays a significant role in immune defense. Studies have shown that gut bacteria actually stimulate the immune system by activating disease-fighting immune cells. But, there’s even more to this story than you can imagine… Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center were curious to see if they could manipulate the composition of the gut flora to improve outcomes for patients. Specifically, they wondered if adding beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract could promote recovery after bone marrow transplant performed as a treatment for leukemia and lymphoma. Because chemotherapy and radiation destroy healthy immune cells as well as cancerous cells, patients are injected with stem cells from a donor’s blood or bone marrow, which eventually allow the patients to produce their own blood cells again. Patients are given antibiotics to protect against infections, but these can destroy “friendly” bacteria along with “bad actors,” causing an overgrowth of dangerous strains. After introducing three strains of “friendly” gut bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, and Akkermansia), the researchers evaluated daily changes in the gut bacteria and the number of immune cells in the blood to see if recovery of the immune system was enhanced. Good news: Can you guess what they discovered? The beneficial bacteria were associated with higher blood concentrations of immune cells called neutrophils, which are the first line of defense against invading pathogens. The team also noted that lower concentrations of all-important neutrophils occurred in conjunction with the presence of a pair of undesirable bacteria – Rothia and Clostridium. The scientists speculated that controlling the gut bacteria could lead to ways to make bone marrow transplants safer – and improve treatments for immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases. Look at What the Microbiome Can Do to Regulate Essential Bodily Functions The more researchers study the gut microbiome, the more they reveal its life-sustaining capacities. In fact, scientists are beginning to regard the gut microbiome as an additional body organ, like the brain or the heart. This amazing system can contain 1,000 different bacterial species (although most people have only about 160). In addition to regulating the immune system, the trillions of microbes in the digestive tract promote digestion and produce important hormones, amino acids, and vitamins, including B-complex vitamins and vitamin K. They also regulate metabolism – sometimes in surprising ways. For example, the gut microbiome can help reduce or prevent obesity. In a Cornell University study, scientists found that a certain genetically-determined “fat-burning” bacteria is more common in people with low body weight. Interestingly, introducing the bacteria to the guts of mice caused them to gain less weight. In addition, gut bacteria produce 80 percent of the brain’s neurotransmitters, the “chemical messengers” that help regulate memory, learning, and even emotions. It is also responsible for producing a whopping 95 percent of serotonin – a hormone needed for stable mood and restful sleep. However, for the gut microbiome to function properly, there must be a healthy balance between beneficial bacteria and pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria. And, there must be a diversity of bacteria. Ideally, the gut microbiome features a “big tent.” In other words, the more species involved – the merrier. Researchers have noted that loss of diversity is often accompanied by the domination of a single type of bacteria – and this is usually “bad news.” Lack of diversity and imbalance – also known as dysbiosis – are linked with a wide range of disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, depression, diabetes, and heart disease. Certain undesirable combinations have predictable consequences, with scientists reporting that low amounts of “friendly” Bifidobacterium and higher levels of Candida albicans are linked to eczema, asthma, and allergies. And, in research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, investigators found that having greater diversity in gut bacteria is linked with a better chance of survival after a stem cell transplant. While 35 of 92 patients in the “low bacterial diversity” group died, only 18 of 87 patients in the high-diversity group succumbed. The researchers noted that low bacterial diversity increases susceptibility to transplantation-related death and graft-versus-host disease, in which the donated immune cells attack the recipient’s tissues and cells. Discover TWO Key Aspects of Microbial Balance So how do you keep the microbiome healthy and balanced? Experts advise eating probiotic foods, which promote the survival of beneficial bacteria. Good choices include fermented foods such as kimchi, miso, fresh unpasteurized sauerkraut, yogurt with active cultures, pickles, kombucha, and tempeh. Prebiotics – non-digestible carbohydrates that provide fuel for beneficial bacteria – are another way to encourage microbial balance. Prebiotic foods include asparagus, banana, chicory, garlic, onions, and whole grains. Just remember, when it comes to food choices, pick “organic” – as much as possible. In addition, a 2014 study published in Psychopharmacology, researchers found that prebiotics can help reduce stress and anxiety. Naturally, health experts advise staying away from refined sugars and artificial sweeteners, as both can cause dysbiosis. Aspartame, in particular, increases the number of bacterial strains that are associated with metabolic syndrome – a cluster of unhealthy conditions that includes high blood sugar, insulin resistance, obesity, and high blood pressure. In other words, metabolic syndrome acts as a “launchpad” for diabetes and heart disease. Needless to say, the natural sweetener stevia is a better choice. Managing stress, sleeping well, and a good amount of exercise can help support the microbiome as well. Finally, it’s worth mentioning to avoid unnecessary or excessive use of antibiotics. These drugs can effectively “knock out” strains of beneficial gut bacteria – and the problem may continue for months, long after the course of antibiotics is over. As you know, integrative healthcare providers have long emphasized the importance of the gut microbiome for general health. As this new study suggests, it may also help combat some of the most challenging and formidable diseases of our time. Sources for this article include: MedicalNewsToday.com, MedicalNewsToday.com, NaturalHealth365, NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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How to Hack Brain Chemicals to Boost Happiness

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 08:00:45 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Most people understand that the brain regulates mood, but how exactly does that happen? While scientists continue to explore and learn about how brain function is linked to emotional health, they do know that brain chemicals play a critical role. Our brain chemicals serve as messengers, sending signals to nerves throughout the brain that impact the way we feel. Did you know that there are simple ways to boost the release and action of our happy hormones? It’s true — small actions can positively impact mood, energy and state-of-mind all because of feel-good brain chemicals. What Are Brain Chemicals? There are millions, or even billions, of chemical reactions occurring in the brain at any given moment. These reactions make up the dynamic system that controls mood, perception and more. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals that send messages from neuron to neuron. Neurons (or nerves) are present throughout the brain and work to send and receive messages. Researchers have found that electrical and chemical signals allow for communication within and between neurons. This is how the brain communicates with itself. Neurotransmitters can be classified into two categories: excitatory and inhibitory. Excitatory messengers work to stimulate brain activity, while inhibitory messengers slow down the chemical reactions. Types/Varieties When it comes to understanding the chemical network within the brain, you need to know about the key players: dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. These brain chemicals, or “feel good hormones,” have a major impact on your mood, and they play a role in your mental, emotional and physical health. When we feel happy, safe, proud or connected, our bodies release these brain chemicals. 1. Dopamine Dopamine is known as the “feel good hormone” because it supports reward regulations in the brain. It plays a critical role in everyday behaviors, like how we feel, move and eat. In moments of pleasure or reward, we get a rush of this brain chemical. On the flip side, when dopamine levels are too low, we can feel helpless and less motivated. Dopamine is strongly linked to the brain’s reward system. It promotes feelings of reinforcement and motivation and modulates learning. Research also links dopamine to behavioral effects on movement, cognition and timing. After finishing a task, being complimented or celebrating a small victory, you get a rush of dopamine. 2. Oxytocin Oxytocin is known as the “love hormone” because it plays a role in many aspects of social bonding and sexual pleasure. The effects of oxytocinproduction are the opposite of what occurs after a cortisol release. We feel calmer, with a sense of joy and security. Research indicates that oxytocin enforces pro-social behaviors and bonding. When we are excited about a social engagement, we actually get a burst of oxytocin, which makes us want to socialize even more. Oxytocin also boosts our ability to react to stress in a healthy way. 3. Serotonin Serotonin plays a role in a range of neuropsychological processes. As a brain chemical, it works to regulate mood, energy balance, motor function, pain perception, appetite and cardiovascular function. Research on serotonin shows that the neurotransmitter is involved in the regulation of many key activities, including behaviors, mood and memory. This is why serotonin is used as a primary treatment for a number of disorders, including major depressive disorder, PTSD, anxiety, aggressive behavior, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. 4. Endorphins Endorphins are a group of chemical substances that are known as “opiate peptides.” Endorphins like enkephalins and dynorphins are associated with feelings of euphoria, pleasure, sexuality and pain relief. Endorphins promote a sense of well-being and even feelings of bliss. On the other hand, low levels of endorphins are linked to emotional and physical pain, risk-taking behaviors, and an increased risk of addiction. Endorphins serve as natural opiate peptide chemicals that have a lot in common with prescription anti-anxiety drugs and opiates. Studies show that when these brain chemicals are released, they help manage pain, provide a sense of euphoria and promote feelings of pleasure. How to Hack Happiness Hormones 1. Eat Healthy Foods Did you know that simply eating nourishing foods can promote the production of your happy hormones, like dopamine? In fact, some foods are called “brain foods” because they help release neurotransmitters. Some of the best foods for your happy hormones include: good-quality protein beans nuts seeds healthy fats antioxidant fruits and veggies 2. Play With Your Pet Playing with a pet can certainly boost your brain chemicals, especially oxytocin, which is your “love hormone.” If you have a pet, petting him or her or playing around is actually great for your own mood and well-being. No pet? That’s what friends and neighbors are for! 3. Hug Someone Want to boost your oxytocin naturally? Bring it in for the real thing. Hugs bring on feelings of comfort, togetherness and joy. Humans benefit from several hugs a day — and make sure they last about 20 seconds or longer. The “extended hug” is really what gets your love hormone going. 4. Take a Walk Outdoors I’m sure this isn’t the first time you’re reading that walks outside are good for your health. It’s grounding and brings on feelings of peace and relaxation. It does this by promoting the production of serotonin, which regulates your mood, energy levels and pain perception. 5. Exercise Exercise or any form of physical activity is a great way to boost serotonin levels. This can be running, swimming, cycling, weight lifting, yoga and more. Moving your body and getting your blood pumping leave you feeling energized and in a better mood. 6. Give Someone a Compliment Did you know that giving someone a compliment can improve your mood too? Little gestures like this increase the release of oxytocin, making you feel loved, forgiving, protected and secure. 7. Joke Around With Friends Laughing increases endorphins, the brain chemicals that are associated with pleasure, motivation and social connection. Simply joking around with friends can impact your mood and even help relieve pain. 8. Watch Comedy If you aren’t in a social setting, you can still boost those endorphins by watching a comedy and LOLing. Any form of laughter is going to boost those brain chemicals and help improve feelings of sadness or isolation. 9. Hold Hands What better way to increase oxytocin levels than to do a little hand-holding? Holding hands promotes the release of your love hormone and causes feelings of togetherness. Oxytocin also makes you feel safe and happy, and it helps your body deal with stress properly. 10. Show Kindness Small acts of kindness can lead to happiness and a sense of peace. That’s because it helps increase the work of brain chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine. Do something simple, like holding the door for a stranger, getting involved in a fundraiser or even simply smiling at a co-worker. 11. Spend Time in the Sun Ever wonder why you feel so relaxed after spending time in the sun? It helps increase serotonin, for starters. Serotonin improves your mood, memory, digestion and wound healing, so don’t miss your daily dose of sunshine if you can help it. 12. Get a Massage The sense of touch promotes the production of oxytocin and leaves you feeling less stressed, more connected and at peace. Getting a professional massage is a great way to boost your overall wellness, or asking a loved one for a short massage works too! Massage therapy boosts happy hormones and even raises your immunity. 13. Complete a Task You know that feeling you get when you complete a task? It’s a feeling of accomplishment, some excitement, a little warmth within. That’s a boost of dopamine, your reward center saying you’ve done a great job. Whenever you complete a mask, celebrate for a few seconds, and feel your neurotransmitters do their work. Risks and Side Effects These are easy and natural ways to boost your happy hormones, or brain chemicals. There are no risks or side effects to taking these small steps to promote a better mood and greater happiness. If you try these actions but feel like you can’t get out of a slump, seek advice from your health care professional. Conclusion Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that send messages from one neuron (or nerve) to another. Millions, if not billions, of messages are sent throughout your brain at any given moment. The release of brain chemicals, or happy hormones, has a significant impact on your mood, perception, energy, digestion and more. The happy hormones that you can boost naturally are serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins. Simple acts like laughing with friends, holding hands, eating a healthy meal and walking outdoors can help increase the levels of these feel-good hormones. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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