Gut Bacteria and how to improve it!

The microbiota is a critical player in our metabolism and our immunity. Today we are still learning about these trillion species that are hosting us. I am not sure if we will ever fully understand them. We know that the deeper we go into the colon, the more diverse and dense the bacteria. Getting a diverse diet and lots of fiber and prebiotics feed these but also improve our brain-to-gut axis via the vagus nerve has a bi-directional feedback loop that originates in the gut. This bio-feedback loop constantly communicates via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) and has several functions; in fact, that's another book. The biofeedback loop corresponds to the Central nervous system continuously. One of the roles is helping to uptake hormones produced by the enteroendocrine cells (EEC). Many hormones, such as serotonin, and tryptophan, originate in the gut. The microbiome aids in taking these hormones. To the vagus nerve, The HPA axis is a biofeedback look via showing the negative emotions affecting may cause dysbiosis or unhealth of the bacteria. This leads to gut permeability when experiencing chronic negative emotions or trauma that also affect our digestive health. Science now shows those who have experienced excess trauma or stress may struggle with digestive issues due to these events.

How to improve it:

1. Colon Hydrotherapy: clean out dysbiosis unhealthy bacteria and keep them maintained
2. Eat whole foods
3. Drink lots of water
4. Take probiotics and eat cultured foods
5. Self-care
6. Practice emotional health regulation
7. Be mindful
8. Work toward a diverse diet; understanding this may take time.
9. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store, farmers' market
10. Find your tribe; ask for help!

Comments

A Functional Medicine Approach to SIBO and Methane Overgrowth

A Functional Medicine Approach to SIBO and Methane Overgrowth Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and its methane-dominant form—now termed Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO)—are key contributors to chronic digestive complaints such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. While conventional treatment often relies on symptom suppression or singular pharmaceutical approaches, the functional medicine model aims to uncover the root causes behind these overgrowths and restore balance to the gut ecosystem. By integrating advanced testing, targeted nutrition, herbal antimicrobials, and motility support, this approach provides both relief and resilience. Understanding SIBO and Methane Overgrowth SIBO is characterized by an abnormal increase in the population of bacteria in the small intestine, typically resulting from impaired motility, post-infectious changes, or structural anomalies. In contrast, IMO is caused by an overgrowth of archaea, such as Methan...

Navigating Travel Constipation: Tips for Maintaining Digestive Health on the Go Traveling—whether for leisure or business—can be exhilarating, but for many, it also disrupts a crucial part of daily wellness: regular bowel movements. Travel constipation is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects both frequent flyers and occasional vacationers. Understanding its causes and implementing preventive strategies can help support gut health, ensuring your journey is as comfortable as it is memorable. What Causes Travel Constipation? Constipation during travel is typically multifactorial. The primary contributing factors include: Changes in routine : Our digestive system thrives on regularity. Travel often alters meal times, sleep schedules, and bathroom habits, disrupting the body’s natural rhythm (Staller, 2017). Dehydration : Long flights, hot climates, and increased caffeine or alcohol intake can lead to fluid loss, reducing the wa...

The Rising Tide of Digestive Disorders: A Functional Perspective on Modern Root Causes

The Rising Tide of Digestive Disorders: A Functional Perspective on Modern Root Causes Digestive disorders have become increasingly prevalent over the past decade, with rising rates of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer in younger adults, and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). While genetics play a role, the sharp increase in prevalence over a short period suggests significant environmental and lifestyle shifts as key drivers. From depleted soil nutrients to modern dietary patterns, chronic stress, trauma, and toxic exposures, a functional medicine lens helps us connect these dots in understanding why our collective gut health is under strain. 1. Decreased Mineral Density in Soil The modern industrialized food system emphasizes yield and efficiency, often at the expense of soil quality. Over time, the mineral content of soil has declined, reducing the nutritional value of produce. Hooda et al. (2004) highlight ho...

Refresh Your Soul

Search This Blog