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Natural Awakenings South Central Pennsylvania

Boost Brain Power by Improving Gut Health

The research is piling up in support for a gut-brain connection and could possibly be the link that medicine has been waiting to discover regarding inflammation. “Brain inflammation comes from imbalances of gut bacteria that lead to the breakdown of the lining of the gut, so that chemicals, like lipopolysaccharides get into the systemic circulation and amplify inflammation,” explains Dr. David Perlmutter, a board-certified neurologist and fellow of the American College of Nutrition. Inflammation is understood and taught in naturopathic medicine to be one of the primary causes of disease spanning from arthritis to autoimmune conditions.”

Key recommendations to improve the gut-brain connection are to eat protein-rich foods (amino acids) to build healthy neurotransmitters for cognition and mood balance; consume anti-inflammatory green tea daily to improve levels of serotonin, dopamine and GABA for brain protection; consume omega-3 fatty acids from cold-water fish to combat systemic inflammation; and incorporate potent antioxidant/anti-inflammatory spices like garlic, ginger and curcumin into cooking. In addition, exercise is essential to maintain optimal digestion, bowel movements, blood flow, sleep, mood and brain health.

Source – Dr. Jessica Shoemaker, BS, ND, and owner of Natural Paths to Wellness, in Camp Hill, has long been encouraging patients in this direction. For appointments, call 717-494-4500. See ad page xx.