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Have you ever noticed how our moods can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster ride? One moment, we’re riding high on excitement and productivity, and the next, we’re plummeting into a pit of stress and anxiety, well it’s a gut thing.
It’s like our emotions are playing a constant game of tug-of-war, right?
But here’s something interesting to consider what if I told you that one of the most powerful tools to help stabilize those ups and downs lies right on your plate?
Yes, you heard me correctly, the food we eat can significantly impact our mental well-being, especially when it comes to managing anxiety and stress. Why do you think there are so many TV commercials promoting “gut health”.
Happiness is Stored in the Gut
Serotonin the “Happy Hormone”
Our digestive system breakings down food and absorbs our nutrients, right?
However, it’s intricately connected to our brain through what’s commonly known as the gut-brain axis.
Picture this: Your gut and your brain are in constant talking to one another.
Both are sending signals back and forth via a network of nerves, hormones, and neurotransmitters.
But did you know a significant portion of the body’s serotonin, often dubbed the “happy hormone,” is produced in your gut.
Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite.
You Act Out What you Eat
When your digestive system is out of balance, whether due to poor dietary choices, stress, or other factors, it can directly impact your emotional state.
Moreover, the gut is home to trillions of bacteria known as the gut microbiota, or gut microbiome.
These tiny organisms play a pivotal role in digestion, immune function, and yes, even mood regulation.
Research suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, may be linked to anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
In essence, the state of your digestive system can influence everything from how you feel after a meal to your overall emotional well-being.
Small Steps to a Healthier You
So how are small changes made? First, as I’ve learned, you have to believe you’re worth it.
No, it’s not simple, it’s a mind game. But you can win, a small change in mindset IS your first step.
I’m not asking you to embrace a thing, just think about it. Write down a few things that you are feeling in your “gut” as you read this post.
You can it work from there.
Foods to Consider
I’m just going to tell you, anything in high fat and sugar is going to make you feel, blah and bad… period.
There is no one who likes cupcakes better more than me, but you as you know, you can make healthier versions.
Besides, high amounts of sugar will make your belly scream out, “hey I’m getting nervous in here”.
I understand, emotional eating, but if you’re going to indulge, make your GUT happy…… it’s your mind that’s telling you crazy things!
Don’t take it out on your gut!
Here are some suggestions:
- Eat more fruits and vegetables!
- Nuts, almonds yes, but you can have cashews too… in moderation.
- Eggs! Eggs! Eggs! (don’t like them… mix up egg substitutions)
- High calcium (watch “nut dairy” some have more sugar than others)
- Turkey
- Seafood (high in omega3 oil and heart healthy fats)
Mindful Drink and Healthy Habits
Fiber-Less Sugar-Pre-Probiotics-Magnesium
Alcohol is full of sugar, that numbs the brain. All in moderation, I say.
Remember when you’re feeling bad and sad and all up in your feelings. You are searching for your “happy hormone”. So, get it with a mindful LESS sugary drink and add some healthy habits.
Same goes for food, just grab a healthier snack… GUT over BRAIN.
It’s taken me years to learn the correlation between my anxiety and stress, to realize it’s a gut thing.
So, I have listed some mindful drink and healthy habits for you to consider making your gut happy.
And you too!
- More WATER! Put fruit and veggies in your water if needed (personally I squeeze a lime in mine)
- Green Tea (you can add a splash of lemonade, it’s so refreshing)
- Reduce caffeine intake, switch your coffee to half and half.
- Fruit juices, in moderation (watch sugar intake)
- If you are going for the sodas, be mindful and start reducing your intake. Pour it into a glass to reduce intake. You take control.
- You can slowly add a daily supplement of fiber. It’s your choice. Personally, I take Metamucil and Culturelle. Getting in my fiber, prebiotics and probiotics.
- Magnesium (the calming supplement)
Final Thoughts and Words of Encouragement
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, remember the profound connection between your gut and your emotions.
By nourishing your body with wholesome foods, practicing mindful eating, and prioritizing gut health, you’re not just fueling your body, you’re always taking back your control from the inside out.
No one knows your story better than you, and I am sure a journey with its many twists and turns, but every step you take towards caring for your digestive system is a step towards greater well-being.
You don’t have to start today, but the quicker you do, the more your gut and your mind will love you and thank you! Just give it a try.
We’ll chat soon,
