The Relationship Between Mental Health And Gut Health

Gut health and mental health are closely linked. Gut inflammation or an imbalance in your gut microbiome can play a role in the development or excacerbation of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Conversely , mental health can affect gut health - for example, stress can disrupt the gut microbiome and cause digestive issues.

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Gut bacteria play a role in the production of nerotransmitters (e.g. serotonin, dopamine, and GABA) which are needed for mood regulation and mental well-being. One of the simplest and most effective things you can do to improve your mental health is to ensure your diet contains adequate fibre, vegetables, fruit, as well as ferrmented foods, pre biotics, and probiotics.

The following foods can be particularly good for your gut health:

• Yoghurt

• Almonds

• Garlic

• Peas

• Brussel sprouts

• Kale

• Cabbage

• Beans

• Blueberries

• Bananas

• Olive oil

• Honey

• Dark chocolate

• Sourdough

• Kimchi

• Kombucha

• Kefir

• Miso

Starting the day with a green smoothie or a smoothie with some of the foods from the above list such as: yoghurt, banana, kale, almond milk would be quite do-able for most people, and a positive step towards a healthy body and mind. Taking a good-quality probiotic would also help pave the way for improved mental well-being.

The mind-gut connection is, in my opinion, an important area to focus on for anyone seeking psychological treatment for mental health concerns. There is nothing but habit stopping you from adding more leafy greens and a probiotic to your weekly meal plans. If you want to dive a little deeper into creating a wellness lifestyle to support your mental health, I can recommend reading the book: "Wellness on a Shoestring" by Michelle Robin, D.C. https://amzn.asia/d/hUHIYbi

I wish you health in body and mind.