Something WEIRD is Controlling Your Brain (Yes, REALLY)
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted September 8, 2018
We like to think that we’re in control of our brains.
But that’s not really true… at least it’s not true all the time.
I mean, who would CHOOSE to be depressed or anxious?
And who would CHOOSE to have a day-long craving for chocolate cake when they’re trying to lose weight?
There’s actually something else inside our bodies that is REALLY controlling our brains.
Scientists have just discovered it… and it may hold the key to making problems like mood disorders and cravings disappear.
Researchers at the University of Oxford have found that microbes living in our guts (called the microbiome) significantly affect our brains and our behavior.
While this seems farfetched, certain species of bacteria seem to influence our social behavior, anxiety, stress, and even our obsessive behavior.
Scientists have yet to discover exactly how this happens.
It may be that those tiny bugs in our guts are communicating with us through the main nerve for the digestive system called the vagus nerve.
Healthy gut bacteria release chemicals such as serotonin that can promote positive feelings.
Unhealthy bacteria seem to act in their own interest.
For example, if these bacteria are used to feeding on sugar, they help create a craving for it – even if you’re trying to cut back.
A lot of this research is still in its infancy. But it’s just another reminder of how important it is to keep your gut bacteria healthy.
Dr. Scott’s Gut Health Program:
- Probiotics are your easiest path to a healthy digestive system. I prefer a probiotic product that contains a fiber prebiotic along with good bacteria (probiotics).
- Eat enough fiber to, not only help with regular bowel movements, but to also help stimulate healthy bacterial growth. I always suggest that people take both water soluble and water insoluble fiber. One of my favorite fibers is ground flax seeds.
- Throw away junk food, trans fats, processed, and chemical foods. All processed foods, trans fatty acids, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol harm your gut bacteria. Do what you can to limit these non-foods in your diet.
- Exercise doesn’t seem like the first place you would turn in order to help your digestive tract, but it has been shown to help encourage a healthy microbiome.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com – and click here to like us on Facebook.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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