Mind-Gut Connection
There is an inseperable connection between the mind and the body. Gut microbiotas are indicated in a host of neurodegenerative disorders including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and Alzheimer’s Disease (Fan et al., 2022). Homeostasis of the bacteria are key to the health of the individual. Inflammatory conditions in the gut are correlated with a higher incidence of pathology in Parkinson’s Disease as well (Fan et al., 2022). The food we consume directly affects the type of gut microbiota produced, thus affecting the overall health of the individual. Short-chain fatty acids found in whole grains and dietary fiber are a food source for colonic epithelial cells which strengthen the epithelial barrier, while some SCFAs are capable of crossing the blood brain barrier at which time they can repair damaged microglial cells (Fan et al., 2022). In this way the gut is intimately connected to the health of the brain. It is not the only piece of the puzzle, but this is an important aspect to consider when addressing your overall health and in particular one’s mental health.
Fan, H-X, Sheng, S, Zhang, F. New hope for Parkinson's disease treatment: Targeting gut microbiota. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2022; 00: 1- 14. doi: 10.1111/cns.13916
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/share/8YZWR2G986UXF6E4PVF2?target=10.1111/cns.13916
