Have you ever heard the term "your gut is your second brain", well it's true. I'm sure there has been many points throughout your life where you have said "my gut feeling is saying this... my gut feeling that...", whether you knew about the relationship between brain and gut, or not. Well it's proven that the enteric nervous system (ENS), a network of neurons located in your gut, influences not just your digestion, but also your emotions and mood.
This "second brain" is in constant dialogue with your brain, affecting how you feel and think. The information is sent back and forth through the bi-directional gut-brain axis, which links the emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. Recent studies have linked gut health to mental well-being, and how imbalances of microbiota also affect our overall health. It is a reminder of how our bodies surprise us, revealing hidden connections that shape our experiences each and every day.
So trust your gut, it truly is a guardian angel - and invest in your gut health. Here are a few ways to get the ball rolling:
Microbiome tests - can be done at home or at the doctor.
Blood panel test
Food interolence test
Autoimmune disorder tests
I see so many people giving out discount codes to supplements and tips for quick fixes.. well I am here to say that there is no point doing all of that if you're not sure where your gut health is at in the first place. The tests can be expensive, I get it - I am there with you. But... the cost of paying for supplements you are unsure will even work for you will add up to be far more over a period of time.
To read more in depth about this - check out the below links.