The Evidence Is Mounting: Gut Health and Mental Health are Linked
The Evidence Is Mounting: Gut Health and Mental Health are Linked
By James E. “Jed” Foster, Jr., MA, LMFT
Years ago, when diving in to study the mind-gut connection and embark on a new journey as a part of Dr. Troy’s multidisciplinary team; I became instantly fascinated by how many associations have been found and/or theorized to exist between our minds and our gut. I became, as Dr. Troy affectionately refers to herself and her ilk, a “GI Nerd,” a moniker I wear with pride. Learning about how the makeup of the microbiome could be a major player in everything from mood to even personality provided many “mind blown” moments.
Fast forward a few years to present day, and the studies and articles keep flowing into my inbox, continuing to point to the microbiome and gut-health as a vital component in mental health. A recent meta-analysis of over 50 studies involving nearly 2600 people has shown that imbalances and deficiencies in anti-inflammatory and inflammatory microbiota are associated with mental health disorders including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and psychosis. For GI nerds like me that want to deep dive into the details, check out the article here:
Medscape: Gut Health ‘Vitally Important’ for Mental Health
And for a quick breakdown of the findings, followed by some excellent tips for optimizing your gut-health, check out this article from Psychology Today:
Psychology Today: Mental Health Depends on Gut Health
As with many scientific findings, one needs to be careful about what one reads into association and understand the difference between association and causation. Both articles above point to the need for further studies, particularly citing that medications’ role in the microbiome imbalances were not accounted for; but the association is certainly noteworthy. Check out the articles and if you have any questions about how you can better optimize your gut, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with our registered dietitians, our nurse practitioners, or Drs. Troy and Nathanson.
Jed is a licensed psychotherapist that continues to be both amazed by and drawn to the mind-body connection. Check in on his blogs for news, information, tips, and commentary on topics related to – but not limited to – the mind-gut connection, behavioral therapy, gut-directed hypnotherapy, weight management, positive psychology, stress reduction, anxiety, depression, overall well-being, and anything else he feels patients will benefit from learning. Jed is actively accepting new patients. Call 224.407.4400 today and begin your journey to better health and enhanced overall well-being.