What is the mind-gut connection?

The brain has a direct effect on the stomach and intestines. For example, the very thought of eating can release the stomach’s juices before food even arrives. This connection goes both ways. A intestine experiencing dysfunction sends signals to the brain, just as a troubled brain can send signals to the gut. That being said a person’s stomach or intestinal distress can be the cause or even the product of anxiety, stress, or depression. That’s because the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) system are intimately connected.

What is our second brain?

The gut is comprised of 100 million neurons, the network of nerve cells lining the digestive tract is so extensive that it has earned the nickname “second brain.” Medically known as the enteric nervous system, this network of neurons is often overlooked and contains more nerve cells than the spinal cord or peripheral nervous system. The mass of neural tissue in our gut produces over 30 different neurotransmitters, many of which are also produced by the brain.

1. Adequate Hydration
Drinking plenty of water can lower blood pressure.
Sodium, caffeine and processed sugar increase blood pressure. When you drink plenty of water this flushes them from the body which in turn lower blood pressure.

2. Reducing Sodium Intake
Salt makes your body hold onto water. If you eat too much, the extra water in your blood means there is extra pressure on your blood vessel walls, raising your blood pressure. Lowering your salt intake lowers your blood pressure profoundly.

3. Moderate Exercise
Being active lowers your blood pressure by keeping your heart and blood vessels in good shape, which lowers your risk of heart disease and stroke.

1. Berries
Berries such as blackberries contain antioxidants called anthocyanins. These compounds have anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce your risk of developing certain diseases.

2. Avocados
Avocados are packed with potassium, magnesium, fiber, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Avocados have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain carotenoids and tocopherols, which can reduce the risk of cancer.

3. Green Tea
Green tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, especially a substance called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG inhibits inflammation by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production and damage to the fatty acids in your cells.

1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help reduce stress and regulate cortisol levels, enhance focus and mental stamina, and reduce irritability and stress-related cravings.

2. Turmeric
Turmeric contains a bioactive compound called curcumin. Turmeric can help depression, anxiety, brain aging, degeneration of brain cells and much more.

3. Amla
Amla contains phytonutrients and antioxidants. Amla is beneficial to memory and works by fighting against free radicals that can attack and damage brain cells. Amla’s high concentration of Vitamin C helps your body produce norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter believed to improve brain function.

1. Avoid Large Meals Before Bedtime
Eating before bed causes the body’s metabolism to slow. The body slows down its functions at night to prepare for sleep, but consuming foods right before bed, can cause the body to be active digesting food while you are asleep resulting in lack of quality sleep.

2. Going to Bed At the Same Time Every Night
Waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day reinforces your circadian rhythm and helps your body run efficiently therefore improving sleep quality.

3. Regular Movement
The effects of gentle exercise on sleep appear to be similar to those of sleeping pills.