Can your gut give you anxiety?

The idea that the gut influences our brain, and our behaviour, is widely understood and accepted. The concept has made its way into everyday language with terms such as “gutsy”, “gut feeling”, “butterflies in the stomach”. Despite this, science has only recently begun to unravel the mechanisms behind the gut-brain axis. 

So how does the gut affect your mental health? 

The gut-brain axis is a communication system between the brain and the trillions of bacteria, fungi and viruses living in the complex ecosystem of the gastro-intestinal tract, known as the microbiome. It refers to a constant two-way communication between the central nervous system and the microbiome.

Multiple studies have shown that the composition of gut microorganisms can have a profound impact on mental health and the overall functioning of the nervous system. A healthy diverse diet plays a crucial role in shaping this microbiome by promoting the growth and proper distribution of beneficial bacteria and stopping the accumulation of harmful ones. 

If the gut ecosystem is dysregulated, it can lead to disruption of the gut-brain axis. The emerging area of research is evolving quickly, demonstrating a correlation to neurological (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, MS) and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.  

Healthy Gut, Happy Mind

As many people who have experienced anxiety would know, it is often linked with gut issues such as tummy cramps, feeling sick, constipation or diarrhoea. This is not a coincidence! 

Research has shown that a healthy, high in fiber and raw food diet, omega-3 and probiotics are beneficial not just for the gut but may be linked to lower risk of anxiety, stress and depression symptoms. 

 Today, take a pause, breathe, and consider that your mental health symptoms may have a deeper underlying cause. 

How is your gut? Have you been putting up with symptoms for a while? 

Why don’t you start by taking our free gut health quiz? 

It takes just a few minutes and would give you a valuable insight into your current state of health.