#autism and the GI tract

[my-autism-adhd-blog]

Hi everyone,

I found a fascinating article talking about the link between the gut micro biome and autism. Here are some excerpts from the article:

“A new paper, authored by no less than 43 scientists of various disciplines, has found the strongest link yet between gut microbes, host immunity, genetic expression in the nervous system, and dietary patterns.”

“Today, scientists know that people with autism are more likely to experience gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and vomiting.

What's more, in recent years, researchers have begun to find links between the makeup of microbes that call our guts home and neurodevelopmental disorders, like ASD.

Nevertheless, this connection isn't always consistent, and some experts have argued it isn't gut bacteria that trigger ASD, necessarily; it could be that kids with autism are more likely to restrict their diets because of 'picky' eating, which in turn influences the kinds of bacteria that persist in the digestive tract.

The new study incorporates 10 existing datasets on autism and the microbiome, plus 15 other datasets regarding dietary patterns, metabolism, immune cell profiles, and gene expression profiles of the human brain.”

The full article will be below in case anyone would like to read more.

Autism

[fenrislorsrai]

I highly suggest Ashley Montagu's "Touching: the human significance of the skin". It has an extremely short section on autism because this book is 40 years old now, but had an interesting take on what the connection is.

This book is an overview by a physical anthropologist on what exactly the skin does. A large portion is devoted specifically to feedback loops and fetal and child development. It's also a tough read because, OOF, a bunch of the info on what can go wrong is about the Harlow monkey experiments (which no ethics committee would sign off on today and even then, jesus) and on what happens to orphaned babies who aren't touched enough.

It's a ROUGH read. But when it came out, the whole idea that "babies need to be touched" was kind of weird theory. Now every neonatal unit is going out of its way to make sure infants get touched because we know Bad Things Happen. A lot of key development things are related simply to getting the right kind of sensory input from the skin.

And the GI tracts and connective tissue play into that as well. You're not as consciously aware of the signals you get from internal sources as your external skin, but they're there. They also are part of feedback systems to get your body to develop specific systems at specific times. Rocking in particular was way, way more prevalent in the kids that didn't get sufficient touch, because it also stimulates the whole damn GI system to develop correctly. It was the body attempting to correct a deficit in tactile data to get back on track.

This was not "oh no, autistic kids aren't getting touched enough!" this is "the signals they SHOULD be getting to steer development don't seem to be getting there for some reason, or are arriving garbled." Like a kid with hearing issues or auditory processing issues is going to have trouble developing language skills, no matter how much you talk to them. They're not receiving the info needed.

Because of the age of the book, he didn't have much info to make a direct connection between touch related sensory processing disorders and autism. Maybe somebody's doing something in mice, but that's hard to directly bring over to humans because we have such a long period of infancy. And obviously you can't run experiments in severe child neglect, just gather info on horrible cases and then compare outcomes and try and find commonalities.

It may also be wrong on the connection, but it sure makes a compelling case that stimming is an effective self regulation tool and is particularly vital to infants and toddlers. And if you don't get to do it, or receive no data or garbled data from it, development diverges in specific ways.

comorbid disorders are either like "yeah ok, makes sense" or "what the fuck"

adhd and autism having a high comorbidity rate? yeah checks out

adhd and autism both having high rates of comorbidity with hypermobility and GI issues? thats an evil curse

[startwithfiber]

Gut Health

The stomach and intestines comprise many microbiomes. These microbes, especially bacteria, are known for breaking down food and converting it into essential nutrients that the body needs. However, not all microbes are good since some bacteria harm your health because they cause discomfort and other illnesses.

Interestingly, certain bacteria are more frequently present in people with conditions like obesity, cancer, autism, and so on. So, the availability of beneficial or harmful microbiomes can be used as an indicator in determining gut health.

However, the food you eat plays a significant factor in impacting the type of bacteria in the gut. It’s because the food has both acute and long-term effects in promoting a conducive environment for either beneficial or harmful bacteria.

According to, Jay Pasricha, M.D. director of Johns Hopkins Center for Neuro gastroenterology, bad gut health affects not only the digestive system but also the physical and mental health.

Actions That Lead to Bad Gut Health

Poor Diet

Research indicates that a poor diet comprises food that lacks fiber supplement vegan. Fiber, an indigestible component of carbohydrates, is the main food source for the beneficial microbes in the GI tract. Consuming plant based fiber powder promotes the prebiotic nature of healthy microbiomes.

In other words, a lack of powdered fiber will starve beneficial bacteria leading to decreased beneficial activities in the gut.

That said, a poor diet also includes low-nutrient processed foods, typically rich in sugar. Studies indicate that such low-nutrient processed foods establish a conducive environment for the survival of harmful microorganisms. It’s because the harmful bacteria thrive on high sugar content in food.

Since the body’s immune system tries to keep these bacteria under control; the body ends up suffering inflammation in various tissues. And so, consuming processed foods can often lead to chronic inflammation of the gut.

Additionally, poor diet also affects food breakdown in the stomach and the small intestines. In this case, the active beneficial gut microbes end up producing harmful metabolites. After all, unhealthy foods will break down into smaller unhealthy particles.

So if a person consumes an unhealthy diet for long; odds are that person will weaken his gut lining and make it susceptible to inflammation.

Chronic Stress

Chronic stress can significantly affect gut health through the secretion of stress hormones. In the long run, this may cause gut permeability. Excess of certain hormones especially cortisol, often results in the loosening of the intestinal lining. When that happens, harmful substances seep through the digestive system, causing inflammation and bad gut health.

Moreover, the gut comprises many significant microbes that aid in digestion and immune function. Research findings indicate that chronic stress affects the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria.

It’s because stress hormones inhibit certain aspects of daily life such as eating, water intake, and other activities. Since these activities enhance the flourishing of beneficial bacteria; a lack of these can make the gut pretty harsh for beneficial bacteria.

Consequently, mostly harmful bacteria survive. However, some of these tend to ingest the gut lining, causing inflammatory bowel disease.

Lastly, the gut plays a vital role in enhancing immune system functioning. So, stress can trigger an immune response, thereby, making your body susceptible to autoimmune conditions and gut inflammation.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can harm gut health by disrupting the composition of gut microbiota. The excess alcohol leads to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut and minimizes the levels of the beneficial bacteria. It’s because harmful microbiomes can survive in abnormal gastrointestinal conditions, unlike the beneficial ones.

Since the alcohol component disrupts gut conditions, this causes a microbiome imbalance called dysbiosis which results in inflammation of the gut.

Alcohol also interferes with the absorption of vital nutrients and triggers malabsorption in the digestive system. This is confirmed by research where most alcoholics were found to be suffering from some nutritional deficiency. Besides, alcohol also affects appetite.

Continuous excess alcohol consumption can result in alcoholic gastritis, and pancreatitis, and may also move to other body organs like liver disease.

Dehydration

Water is essential in promoting gut health through digestion and absorption. Water has been termed the “forgotten nutrient” when it comes to microbiome research since the focus is commonly on diet and not water.

One recent study has demonstrated that there is a difference in microbiome composition between heavy water drinkers and low water drinkers, but more research is needed.

The Signs of Bad Gut Health

Digestive Discomfort

Indigestion, gas, and bloating are challenges of digestive discomfort that may indicate problems with your gut. Bloating might indicate dysbiosis in the gut because of trouble breaking down specific components of meals. This dysbiosis of the gut microbiota may be a result of indigestion; promoting excessive flatulence.

Stomach pains may indicate inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Similarly, constipation or diarrhea may reveal abnormalities in your gut.

Irregular Bowel Movement

Chronic constipation and diarrhea are common signs of an existing gut problem. A constant disruption in bowel movements might indicate a microbiome imbalance in the gut flora by the harmful microbes.

Consuming a low-fiber diet causes constipation. Meanwhile, it’s the gut inflammation that causes diarrhea. Acute constipation or diarrhea, while uncomfortable, is usually not caused by microbe imbalance in the intestines. Rather, these are issues mainly associated with stomach overreacting to acute problems — such as stomach flu.

Food Sensitivities

The Abrupt onset of food sensitivities may indicate poor gut health. You may have problems with the gut’s capacity to digest and absorb nutrients, resulting in food sensitivities effectively.

Research suggests that changes in the gut lining caused by microbiome imbalance may lead to food sensitivities and are one of the signs and symptoms of impaired gut health.

Things Someone With A Bad Gut Can Do to Improve Their Gut

Adopt a Gut-Friendly Diet

Your gut health requires incorporating whole, nutrient-dense, high fiber protein powder, foods into your diet. So, you should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods provide vital nutrients that promote a diverse microbiota necessary for a healthy gut.

Plant based fiber supplement content is crucial because it provides a conducive environment in the gut for beneficial microbiomes to flourish and allows steady bowel movement. Some soluble fibers include legumes and fruits, while insoluble ones are vegetables and whole grains.

Stay Hydrated and Consume Fermented Food.

Routine adequate hydration is essential for a healthy gut. Water intake plays a critical role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Apart from hydration, incorporating fermented food in your diet is also advised because they are rich in prebiotic beneficial bacteria that enhance gut health.

Some foods, such as yogurt, kombucha, kefir, and kimchi, are excellent options for supporting prebiotics in the gut.

Limit Processed Foods and Added Sugars

Overconsumption of processed foods and sugar can result in an imbalance in gut bacteria. Therefore, you should reduce your intake of processed foods and added sugars because they may promote the flourishing of harmful bacteria that may result in poor gut health.

Consider Probiotic Supplements

Probiotic supplements are one of the alternative options to enhance gut health. The supplement promotes beneficial microbiota, hence reducing the imbalance in the gut.

However, you must consult a healthcare professional to determine and recommend an effective probiotic that aligns with your current condition.

Get Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity has many health benefits, including a healthier gut microbiome. Engaging in physical activities enhances body metabolisms that ensure food intake, absorption, and overall body wellness.

Regular exercise activities, including walking, cycling, and jogging, should be done consistently.

Working out promotes healthy bacteria in the gut, which minimizes inflammation and enhances immune function. According to research, moderate endurance workouts can enhance gut health regardless of some influential factors like eating habits.

To achieve gut health, you should make it a norm to exercise regularly.

Prioritize Sleep and Manage Stress

Quality sleep of about 7–8 hours daily is essential for gut and overall health. Research indicates that quality sleep enhances the repair and regeneration of your digestive system and the whole body.

Stress management is essential for gut health as chronic stress can cause hormonal disturbances as well as appetite variations. And so, stress may cause a person to over-eat or not eat enough.

So, if you are experiencing chronic stress, then a good idea is to engage in stress-relieving activities such as meditation and yoga.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Suppose your gut problems persist despite incorporating various methods to combat the issue. It is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. They can conduct different tests to locate the underlying problem and offer effective treatment options to prevent adverse conditions that could result in other health complications.

If you are under cancer treatment, you must always inform the care team whenever you notice any bowel changes or rapid weight gain or loss.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption negatively affects your microbiome. It leads to gut irritation and causes gastritis. The irritation can lead to inflammation, which causes bacterial infections, ulcers, and chronic discomfort.

If you want to have a healthy gut, you should limit your alcohol consumption to help prevent intestinal and gut inflammation.

Conclusion

Your gut is digesting food for you. And so, it’s the part of your body that gives you the energy to live. That’s why you must have a healthy gut with a balanced microbiome, proper digestion, and absorption of nutrients. An imbalance in the gut’s regular function may result in issues like constipation, diarrhea, weight gain, and bloating.

But you can avoid all that and keep your gut healthy by simply making healthy diet choices and choosing a more active lifestyle.

[lesbianslovebts]

First day of vacation and my intestines are fucking killing me. 🙃 My whole GI tract sucks because of autism, IBS, and whatever else. It's a balancing act of Cimetidine, Lansoprazole, Tums, Miralax, Pepto Bismol, GasX, like...why do I have to suffer daily? I just want to eat, digest, and shit, but apparently that's too much to ask.

[cutepilled]

anyway on the topic of autism why has my gi tract been so fucked up for the past few days ive been drinking alcohol more than usual but like it’s not like i’ve been going hog wild

[builder051]

Eleven?

Twenty?

If you could give any advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Not that it all gets better, exactly, because it doesn't. It really doesn't. But it all comes together, kind of? Like, all the weird symptoms I had throughout my childhood can now pretty much be collated into the files of gender dysphoria, autism, BPII, and GI tract disease. There's just about nothing left that I can think of from my younger years that sticks out as mysterious or unplaceable beyond those categories. It's kind of like a, 'huh, they all do fit', kind of feeling.

What kinds of things are good sensory wise?

My room, which has a C-frame hammock swing in it, as well as a bed full of pillows (most of them in Marvel pillowcases). Everything is waterproofed, since my feeding stuff sometimes leaks and I have continence issues, but I have so many pillows and dolls/stuffed toys of Marvel characters and fuzzy blankets with Marvel characters... It's really nice.

I also, um, really like to be high? Like, a low dose, just enough to give me a 2-hour session with some animations and colors and shapes and lights on the backs of my eyelids while I listen to a movie or some music... I have been told this is a sensory seeking behavior and not necessarily a bad thing, so long as I keep my usage to occasional.

[rmalab]

Your Gut and Autism

In today’s scientific community, the microbiome is top of everyone’s mind. We are learning that a very high portion of the body’s functions have a connection to the colonization of bacteria that lives in your gut. We also know that the North American lifestyle doesn’t typically foster the healthiest of microbiome flora. Learn More

[my-autism-adhd-blog]

Autism & Gastrointestinal Issues

Neurodivergent_lou

[nationalcandidacenter]

Leaky gut—does it exist? Fact or fiction

Numerous discussions about the so-called "leaky gut syndrome" are currently taking place in the medical world. Experts in alternative medicine contend that the illness is common and contributes to poor health

However, the majority of medical experts believe that there isn't enough evidence to demonstrate that it's a real problem. broad

Gastrointestinal permeability and absorption

Let's begin by defining the gut and its "normal" functioning. The term "gut" refers to the large intestine, although the small intestine is also considered here. Before being absorbed, everything we eat passes through a lengthy tube in our intestines. The phrase "intestinal permeability" refers to the restriction of material moving from the gastrointestinal system through the cells lining the gut wall into the rest of the body. The small gaps (tight junctions) in the intestinal wall regulate the absorption of compounds. Normal intestinal permeability permits nutrients to travel through the gut. It also acts as a protective barrier for toxic compounds to leave the intestine and spread to other parts of the body. 

The structure of the intestine can be weakened for a variety of reasons. If it doesn't function properly, toxic metabolites and microbes penetrate the blood system through these gaps. This causes havoc in the body, causing symptoms like bloating, gas, cramps, inflammatory bowel disease, fatigue, food sensitivities, joint pain, irritability, moodiness, insomnia, autism, and skin conditions. Leaky gut is not a recognized medical condition. In fact, several doctors challenge its very existence. Science does not support any of these statements, so this is all just an assumption. However, chronic diseases and inflammatory conditions may be caused by high intestinal permeability. There have been many comprehensive investigations done on the barrier role of the intestinal lining, yet a feasible approach to detecting leaky gut has not been established. Though much scientific research has been done, there is currently no reliable diagnostic test available.

Symptoms of Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome doesn't necessarily have any symptoms, but intestinal hyperpermeability still occurs as a result of damage to the intestinal lining. Inflammation is brought on by the molecules that escape from the gut into the bloodstream, which increases the chance of developing certain chronic illnesses. There can be inflammation and potential immune system problems.

Bloating, nausea, and cramping are common symptoms. Increased intestinal permeability can also lead Evento a variety of other symptoms, such as mental anxiety disorders, headaches, cognitive fog, allergies, exhaustion, and joint discomfort. 

Proposed treatments

Many of the treatments that practitioners of leaky gut syndrome advocate are based on diet plans. They claim that most individuals have major issues with eating habits. They advise patients to stay away from high-sugar foods (even fresh fruits), asserting that the extra sugar leads to an overgrowth of a particular strain of yeast in the GI tract, which causes harm to the intestinal wall. Additionally, they assert that sensitivity to lactose or gluten can also harm the bowel. So they advise people to stay away from all dairy products and gluten-containing products.

But the fact is that fruits will never make yeast attack the intestines. A small portion of people have symptoms from eating gluten and lactose, but the majority of people have no issues with these foods. Following these practitioners' advice will likely result in nutritional deficiencies rather than reducing symptoms.

Many practitioners also recommend essential supplements to treat leaky gut. They provide unproven treatments for a condition with no known medical cause. Furthermore, using these supplements can end up costing a lot of money. Because many of them have not been thoroughly researched, they can do little to alleviate symptoms and may even be harmful to our health.

Natural remedies for leaky gut

As with most digestive disorders, the most common treatment for leaky gut is diet modification and management. These changes are intended to prevent or reduce inflammation in the gut. A healthy diet in general can help control inflammation, and getting the right nutrients can help protect the intestinal barrier. Because Leaky Gut Syndrome has a variety of causes, it's critical to make all of these changes under the guidance of a certified physician, ensuring the right treatment.

There are some natural leaky gut treatments. In general, the best ways to protect your intestinal barrier are to support your digestive health and avoid inflammation. Because these are all healthy lifestyle changes, your overall health may benefit as well.  

Here are a few natural leaky gut remedies:

Drink 8–10 glasses of water to aid digestion.

Increase your intake of vitamin D to reduce intestinal permeability and leakage.

In order to protect your intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation, increase your zinc intake.

Consume probiotic foods to increase the number of bacteria in your gut.

Provide prebiotics for your healthy bacteria.

Maintain an anti-inflammatory diet. Even if this diet does not specifically treat leaky gut, it is still very nutritious and may benefit your overall health.

Eat baked or steamed fruits and vegetables instead of raw fruits and vegetables to avoid digestive issues.

If you have any further questions or concerns about 'leaky gut syndrome' or intestinal permeability, contact Natural cure for leaky gut in Sanford.

[drannbarter]

How to Improve your Gut Health

Gut health is now becoming a national obsession. The good news is that there are simple ways to improve your gut health. You can improve your gut health by reducing stress, eating foods that contain prebiotics and fiber, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

Your gut microbiota has a tremendous impact on your overall health. It influences the function of your immune system, brain, and hormones. In addition, it plays a role in neurological conditions like autism. Keeping your gut bacteria healthy can prevent chronic illnesses. If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you may be at risk for developing mental health disorders.

The best way to how to improve your gut health is to maintain a balanced diet. Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Limiting processed foods and saturated fats can also help. These types of foods contain vitamins and minerals that your body needs. A diet that contains plenty of protein can also strengthen your digestive tract. Using a probiotic supplement is another way to increase your gut's health. A probiotic is a live bacteria that your body can benefit from.

Your microbiota is made up of trillions of bacteria. While some of these bacteria are harmful, others are beneficial. The more "good" bacteria in your gut, the healthier you will be. Your gut bacteria can be weakened by stress, which causes inflammation. You can reduce your stress by incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine. You can also practice deep breathing to calm your nervous system.

Some of the foods that are most helpful for improving your gut health include fiber-rich foods, fruits and vegetables, and plant-based foods. You can add nuts and seeds to your meals. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can keep your digestive tract healthy. These nutrients can also lower cholesterol and oxidative stress. You can also try adding some turmeric into your diet, which can kill off harmful bacteria.

If you have a problem with your digestive system, you should consult a doctor or therapist. You can also try meditation and deep breathing to reduce stress. Practicing yoga or progressive muscle relaxation can also be beneficial. You can take a quiz to find out what your gut microbes look like. This is an easy way to figure out what your symptoms are and how to improve them.

Your gut microbiota is composed of 40 trillion bacteria. This means that there are a lot of different strains of bacteria to choose from. Your gut bacteria need certain foods to thrive. This is why it is important to have a variety of bacteria. It is also a good idea to avoid greasy, salty, and fried foods. These kinds of food can cause GI issues for many people.

You can also add in a few prebiotics into your diet. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria in your gut. You can get prebiotics from foods like bananas, garlic, onions, and oatmeal. These foods have also been found to increase the numbers of helpful bacteria.

[dianadragonfly]

Parenting my oldest:

2010: “twins have high rates of complications so you need to be prepared.” -me: k, got it!

2010: *ultrasound* “look! She has her brother’s foot in her mouth” - me: okay, she’s going to be a pistol.

2011: “she’s having a little trouble breathing so we’ll keep her in the nursery for a few nights” me: I’m sure she’ll be just fine although that freaks me out a little.

2011: “that foot is going to need casted and possibly surgery if she’s going to walk.” Me: not fun but it could be worse

2011: “you have to keep the brace on her or she’ll need surgery” me: nocando - she’s making her heels bloody by fighting it so long. I’m taking her elsewhere.

2011: Shriners Hospital: “Brace and surgery not needed. She’ll be fine.” Me: *whew*

2014: is this child unusually stubborn?

2017-2018? Sensory processing disorder, anxiety: me: okay baby girl. We got this.

2018: chronic GI issues: me: we got this. I’m calling the world’s expert in this and paying out of pocket. Life revolves around her GI tract.

2019: ADHD. Me: we got this

2019: “Mom I’m coming out as asexual.” Me: (Thinks): You’re nine years old, child. Of course you’re asexual. Me: (says): I will support you no matter how you identify yourself. And if that changes, never be afraid to tell me.

2020: more mental health challenges. Me: We got this.

2020: “I want a snake. Me: I have a snake phobia but here’s a snake.

2021: is it autism? Me: I’m going to get evaluations but we are going to support her whatever her diagnosis. It’s kinda nbd. We got this.

2021: “I think I like girls.” Me: okie dokie Smokey. No big deal.

2022: “Mom, I think I want to be a furry.”

Jesus Christ child, no.

I don’t got this.

(I’m gently poking fun at my furry friends because of all the curve balls this child has thrown me, I totally wasn’t prepared for this one. No hate intended.)

[journey-of-a-lioness-blog]

Brain and Gut connection

Ever wondered why you crave certain types of food? It’s all to do with the type of microbial population you have living in your digestive gut – the microbiome – all 2kg of it. Whatever you feed it, will thrive, and will demand more of the same food. In a way, your body ‘demands’ certain food; only it’s the microbiome that’s doing the demanding.

What’s really interesting are the findings of the developing science of Neurobiology of Stress. Cutting edge research shows that whilst there are good and healthy types of microbiomes, there are also harmful microbiomes that, if fed and encouraged to thrive, result in serious health complications. For instance, food sensitivities and allergies; digestive disorders; obesity; depression; anxiety; fatigue; brain fog; migraines; inconsistent moods; memory issues; cognitive function and learning impairments like ADD ,ADHD. About 70% of your immunity comes from cells in your gut and important gut bacteria pass from mother to child through natural birth.

The community of microorganisms lives and communicates inside your gut and sends 9 times more signals to your brain than what your brain sends to your gut. The gut has more neurons than a spinal cord and the small intestine produces more serotonin than the brain. 90% of your serotonin is made in your intestinal tract; which may be why people feel strong

emotions in their gut as well as their minds – that ‘gut instinct’ we all know so well.

Mood is made in the gut. There is a constant bi-directional communication between the brain and the gut. The microbes in the gut communicate with conflictive and emotional centres of the brain. Stress can exacerbate symptoms, which in turn cause more stress and the cycle continues. The gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotion. So, depression, anxiety, anger, sadness and elation can trigger symptoms and cause such conditions in the gut to change.

So what this Mind-Gut connection teaches us is that when we make a few simple changes to our diet, we can encourage the growth of a healthy microbiome and thereby treat the symptoms of these health problems. Through what we choose to eat each day, we can nurture our microbiome and increase the levels of healthy bacteria to support our overall health and wellbeing. This will help heal and protect the brain from creating conditions which contribute to brain ageing , Dementia and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s ,Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis .

Therefore the toxic foods we should avoid eating and drinking. Processed GMO foods containing sugar, carrageenan, dairy, dairy products – lactose and casein, red meat, preserved meat, alcohol, refined carbohydrates high in (GI) foods, gluten, highly refined flours and grains, breads from improper fermentation, artificial additives, iodised salt, smoking, pathogens as parasites, mould, fungus, bacteria, mercury, pasteurised and processed packed juices, agave, seitan, transfats, hydrogenated oils and vegetable oils extracted through solvents, are all considered unhealthy for the microbiome. They cause the immune system to respond resulting in chronic inflammation throughout the body, including the brain. Chronic inflammation within the gut and brain can cause stress, depression, brain fog, exhaustion, high blood pressure, stroke, arthritis, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, gas/bloating, constipation, loose stools and ulcers. These long-term symptoms in the stomach can ultimately lead to cancer.

However, much good can be done with making some healthy changes. Since nutrition creates mood, it’s effective to have a natural diet coupled with lifestyle and environmental management. A relaxed mind, meditation, yoga, sufficient quality sleep are important for the brain and are key factors in supporting a healthy wellbeing.

Eliminate inflammation by taking responsibility for your own health with the foods that you eat. This will support brain-gut connections which will improve specific mental tasks, memory, concentration and reduce inflammation in your body which in turn, impacts the production of serotonin.

Probiotics (healthy bacteria strains) and prebiotics (food for the probiotics) boost the power of the microbiome to heal and protect your brain. These include a raw organic plant-based diet with vegetables and fruits. Superfoods and antioxidants such as brown rice, gluten free whole grains, sprouting legumes (making them more digestible), nuts, seeds, herbs, organic herbal teas and purified water.

Especially healthy are antioxidants including Flavonoids, Curcumin, anthocyanins which act against inflammation and oxidative stress and improve communication between brain cells with brain ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. These all contribute to the more efficient production of serotonin and dopamine, which is a growth hormone that helps new brain cells grow.

Diets rich in Omega-3, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, Copper, Zinc, Vitamin E protect the body and brain from free radical damage, build and control brain and nerve cells, slow down age-related mental decline, reduce the chances of brain cancer and increase alertness and concentration.

Foods high in Vitamin B6, B12, Folate, Choline, Folic acid are good for the brain’s neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and memory whilst Vitamin K, Sphingolipids, Vitamin C, Potassium, Lycopene and Anthocyanins fight inflammation.

In my experience Atmavikasa has reassured me that I’m on the right path with my healthy living lifestyle. Fortunatly I am sensitive and conscious of what I eat and have been since a child , and this has helped me through my daily struggle in dealing with my Neurodegenerative disease. lf I had not been consciously aware of living this lifestyle my experience with this disease would be at a completely different level right now. I feel I can control it’s affects on my body by being in control with what goes into my body and also being aware of my surroundings. I’ve also personally witnessed the affects it has had on a couple of family members who have ADD, ADHD and autism. Feeding your microbiome with what it actually needs instead of what it currently demands is important. So in making the change you will after awhile find that your new microbiome will demand the nutritious new diet and you will feel far healthier for it. Persevere for now and for a healthier future.

[denisebing]

Feeling Bloated and Blah? Experts Share the 7 Best Ways to Improve Your Gut Health

“Hearst Magazines and Verizon Media may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.”

When your gut is feeling great, you never think about it—but when it isn’t, it’s hard to think about anything else. The group of microorganisms that live in and make up your gastrointestinal tract plays a role in almost every aspect of your health from preventing chronic illnesses to keeping your immune system humming. So it’s no wonder that when it’s out of whack, you feel lousy.

But what is your gut, exactly? And is it possible to improve your gut health? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is the gut? The human gut is far more complex than even experts used to realize—it encompasses a vast array of internal organs involved in the process of digestion to absorb nutrients from food and expel waste, explains Rushabh Modi, M.D., board-certified physician in both internal medicine and gastroenterology and hepatology and assistant professor of clinical medicine at Keck School of Medicine of USC. “Typically, this refers to the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small bowel, and colon with the pancreas and liver being critical as supportive organs that help make digestive enzymes,” he says.

How your gut keeps your body healthy In addition to absorbing and transporting nutrients to all tissues in the body, the gut is vital for maintaining fluid and salt status and expelling waste, explains Dr. Modi. “Many vital nutrients and vitamins such as B12 and iron have specialized transporters that only exist in the gut as well,” he adds. Iron, for example, needs stomach acid to be absorbed effectively—and B12 requires certain receptors in the stomach and mid intestines also to be absorbed. “It's hard to get these nutrients in other ways and they are essential for normal physiological functioning,” Dr. Modi adds.

The gut is also one of the body’s primary disease-fighting systems. “The acid in the stomach kills the bacteria and virus that can be accidentally consumed by the food we eat, and the digestive tract is an important way to introduce antigens to mount immune function and protection in the body,” says Christine Lee, M.D., a gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic. “The digestive tract also digests the foods consumed and extracts the important nutrients to be taken into the body for essential use.”

Emerging research has even uncovered a link between poor gut health and several neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, autism, and depression. One such study by the Université de Genève found that individuals with Alzheimer’s have different types of bacteria growing in their gut than those who do not have the disease.

Visit sticker printing homepage for more details.

8 Signs Your Gut Is Suffering If your gut is unhealthy, chances are, you’re experiencing one or more of the following symptoms even mildly or infrequently:

Gas

Bloating

Acid reflux

Heartburn

Diarrhea

Constipation

Changes in Stool

Unexplainable weight loss

“Since food digestion and waste production are the two most vital functions of the gut, when patients have problems in these areas, the gut can often be the source of the problem,” explains Dr. Modi. Acid reflux and heartburn are also associated with the gut, though you’ll feel the pain further away from the core of the problem. Bloating is also increasingly very common to the point that Dr. Modi notes that patients almost see it as a normal reaction to eating certain foods.

If you experience unexplainable weight loss, despite eating regular meals, this may indicate your body is not able to digest or absorb the nutrients in the foods you are consuming and indicate there is a problem in your digestive system, according to Dr. Lee.

How to improve your gut health The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to support your gut health. Here are some of the strategies doctors recommend.

Eat a wide range of healthy foods A diet made up of several different food types can lead to a more diverse microbiome that is made up of more species, according to a review published in the journal Molecular Metabolism. This, Dr. Lee explains, strengthens our microbiome and enhances its resiliency.

The best foods for gut health are fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, especially those highest in fiber, which helps your digestive tract work properly. Women should aim for 25 grams of fiber per day and men should aim for 38 grams per day, per the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

And cut back on unhealthy foods. “The more grease, fat, and salt you eat, the worse your gut health will be,” says Scott David Lippe, M.D., chief of gastroenterology at Bergen Regional Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, and assistant clinical professor of medicine at Rutgers Medical School. This is something to keep in mind especially when you’re out to dinner, as restaurants tend to load up on salt, grease, and fat because they taste good.

Try cutting out dairy If you have gas, distention, or looser stools after drinking milk or eating cheese, you may be lactose intolerant. “This affects a significant number of adults, especially those who do not have northern European ancestry,” says Dr. Lippe. “A quick and easy test is drinking a glass of regular milk—if it makes you unwell, then you are lactose intolerant.” If cutting out dairy is not something you’re willing to do, you can also try taking lactose tablets before you consume any foods containing dairy.

Consider a probiotic These teeny tiny microorganisms help support your metabolism and help rebalance your microbiota, says Douglas A. Drossman, M.D., gastroenterologist and professor emeritus of medicine and psychiatry, UNC Division of Gastroenterology at UNC School of Medicine. He recommends taking them if you’re experiencing symptoms of an unhealthy gut; however, there may be no benefit otherwise. There’s actually not a ton of research to support the gut benefits of probiotics.

One review published in Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, for instance, found that probiotics do positively impact the gut microbiota of individuals with certain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes, but did little to improve the gut microbiota of healthy people. “If you take antibiotics or have a diarrheal illness, then taking probiotics may be very helpful,” adds Dr. Lippe. However, he recommends first trying to get your fair share from probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

Incorporate more prebiotics into your diet “Prebiotics are not bacteria but instead are the types of foods that good bacteria like to eat,” explains Dr. Milstein. “We need to feed the good bacteria and starve the bad bacteria.” He recommends filling up on good-bacteria foods like walnuts, berries, bananas, flax seed, legumes, artichokes, onions, garlic, chicory, dandelion greens, asparagus, leeks, and whole grains. “Nutrition is personalized, but putting some fruits and vegetables, and fiber on our plate at each meal helps gut health and thus brain health,” Dr. Milstein adds.

Monitor your vitamin D levels Recent research plush in Nature Communications has looked into the connection between gut bacteria and vitamin D levels and found that deficiencies in the nutrient plays a key role in increasing one’s risk for certain diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Any form of disruption of the GI barrier is what’s commonly known as “leaky gut,” per Dr. Drossman, which he says can increase an individual’s risk for developing infectious, inflammatory, and functional GI diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. “Most people with leaky gut have very low vitamin D levels as well as very low levels of the two main omega 3s—EPA and DHA—in their body,” he says. He recommends that most people take at least 5,000 IUs (125 mcg) of vitamin D3 a day and consume enough fish oil (or the vegan equivalent) of 1,000 mg of DHA per day. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any kind of supplement.

Manage your stress level Being stressed not only takes a toll on your mental health, but it also affects your physical wellbeing. Chronic levels of high stress can directly impact your gut health, according to Dr. Drossman. Although it’s not always possible to remove stressors in your life, adopting stress-management strategies, such as diaphragmatic breathing, meditation, or yoga can help, says Dr. Drossman. “It’s also a wise idea to consider visiting a mental health provider to determine if brain-gut therapies (cognitive-behavioral treatment, hypnosis, mindfulness) can be used,” he adds.

Get enough quality sleep each night When you don’t get enough sleep, your whole body is affected, including your gut. In fact, new research is showing just how interconnected your gut microbiome and the quality of your sleep really is. One study by Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, found that poor sleep can have negative consequences on your gut microbiome for reasons that are not yet known, which can then manifest into a host of other health issues such as autoimmune diseases and mental conditions. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night.

[deep-inside-the-borderline]

Does the disease or condition raise the risk of other nutrition associated side effects or chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes, heart disease, alzheimers)? Can the risk be reduced?

Does the disease or condition raise the risk of other nutrition associated side effects or chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes, heart disease, alzheimers)? Can the risk be reduced?

Please choose ONE disease/condition from below and briefly summarize medical aspects & common symptoms. · Prader-Willi · Autism · Cerebral Palsy · Down’s Syndrome Then, address each of the following topics: · Are there any weight issues associated with the disease/condition? What does the research say? · Does the disease alter GI tract function (digestion or absorption)? What is recommended? ·…

[following-train]

Does the disease or condition raise the risk of other nutrition associated side effects or chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes, heart disease, alzheimers)? Can the risk be reduced?

Does the disease or condition raise the risk of other nutrition associated side effects or chronic diseases (i.e. diabetes, heart disease, alzheimers)? Can the risk be reduced?

Please choose ONE disease/condition from below and briefly summarize medical aspects & common symptoms. · Prader-Willi · Autism · Cerebral Palsy · Down’s Syndrome Then, address each of the following topics: · Are there any weight issues associated with the disease/condition? What does the research say? · Does the disease alter GI tract function (digestion or absorption)? What is recommended? ·…