Did you know that there’s a connection between your stomach health and your mental well-being? If you didn’t, you’re obviously not alone. It’s always a good idea to make sure both are in good working order as it could disrupt your daily activities and more. So how can we improve both at the same time?
We will be taking a look at the following ideas in this guide on how stomach health can be beneficial for mental well-being. Also included will be what you’ll need to consider for better gut health so you can also feel better about yourself mentally. Let’s take a look now at everything you need to know.
What Is The Gut-Brain Axis?
The gut-brain axis is defined at communication between both your gastrointestinal and central nervous system. How does this come about? To begin, the vagus nerve, gut microbiota, and your immune system are all working together to mediate the axis between your gut and your brain. As such, the gut is known as your “second brain” (think about your so-called ‘gut feeling’ being the messenger).
Not only that, your gut will have plenty of neurons that can produce serotonin and other neurotransmitters. Serotonin is a mood regulator that is produced in your gut almost 90 percent of the time. If you have poor stomach health, don’t be surprised if you don’t feel like yourself mentally.
If you are dealing with stomach cancer, it can be a mentally challenging thing to go through. The Regional Cancer Care Associates understand this and will do their best to make sure you get the best treatment for stomach cancer while guiding you on a path towards better mental health by linking you with mental health professionals whenever you need them to help get through the treatment process. Even cancer specialists know that your gut and brain can work together – and when they don’t, it can be mentally draining.
How To Improve Gut and Mental Health With The Right Diet
One cornerstone on your road to improving both your gut and mental health is diet. The question now becomes: what should you include as part of it? Let’s give you some ideas on where you can start:
- Foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics: These foods in particular will be a gut’s best friend. Both prebiotics and probiotics are both excellent bacteria for gut regulation. Probiotic rich foods include yogurt and fermented vegetables. Meanwhile, pre-biotics will be found in foods that are high in fiber like whole grains and bananas.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s are legendary when it comes to their anti-inflammatory properties. However, they are also great for brain health as well. Including fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts are great examples of food to include in your diet that are packed with these fatty acids.
- No processed foods or sugars: Yes, we get it. There are some things you cannot resist eating. But what you need to know is that foods that are processed and packed with refined sugars will increase gut inflammation. As a result, the gut-brain axis will be off balance.
So you have a pretty good idea of how your diet should be set up. It’s going to be a challenge at first, but start out small. Plus, you should consider the idea of putting together a shopping list to get all the foods you need for better gut health (and mental health as well). It’ll be one of the best investments you’ll continuously make on yourself.
Consider Other Lifestyle Choices For Better Gut and Mind Health
Finally, we would be remiss if we didn’t suggest that you make other lifestyle choices for a better gut and mind. We highly suggest that you follow these steps down below so you have a good idea of what to do:
- Ensure proper hydration: Water will be excellent for digestion and preserving the lining in your gut. Don’t forget that it can also flush out some bad toxins that could give your stomach fits.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a win-win for both your gut and your mind. Not only will there be better motility for your gut, but you will also be able to eliminate stress as well.
- Limit or refrain from alcohol and caffeine: Both of these can be harmful for both your gut and mental health. Not to mention, you’ll risk an increase in anxiety if you consume or or both in excess.
- Practice self-care: It’s more than just bubble baths. Self-care is something where you can do something that you love while also allowing it to enrich your mental health. This includes hobbies or working on something that provides you with happiness and gratitude.
Final Thoughts
Both your gut and mental health are equally important since they work with one another. It would never be a good idea to neglect any part of your body. So take the best care of both using these tips above. It will take time to see benefits, but you will feel the best once you adopt health habits that will be best for your gut and brain.
