Every single one of us has experienced anxiety. New research suggests a strong connection between your emotions and your gut, and your gut bacteria could be causing your stress. Here are what you need to know and my prescriptions for lifestyle changes that can help reduce those anxious feelings.
The Gut-Brain Connection
Researchers found a new connection between gut bacteria and anxiety-like behavior in a recent study using mice as test subjects. Trillions of microbes residing in the gut can influence microRNAs β molecules found in the brain that play a key role in gene expression regulation.
The influenced microRNAs are found in two specific parts of the brain β the amygdala, which is associated with emotions, and the prefrontal cortex, which plays a role in personality development.
Findings showed that the microRNAs in the brains of mice bred in germ-free conditions were most significantly affected. Those mice displayed abnormal anxiety levels, deficits in social and cognitive ability, and depressive-like behavior.
Is Gut Bacteria Causing Your Anxiety?
You now know that changes to gut bacteria can influence microRNAs in a way that fuels your anxiety. Antibiotics, stress, smoking, consuming alcohol, sleep deprivation, and nutritional choices are only some things that can affect your gut bacteria.
Gut bacteria can affect your entire body and could trigger your anxiousness.
To figure out if the gut-brain connection is in play. These healthy habits can restore balance in the gut and reduce or eliminate your anxiety. Please scroll down for my prescriptions.
When to Seek Help
If you struggle with anxiety, you are not alone. While occasional concern is widespread, professional help is sometimes needed. You should never suffer in silence. Please talk to your doctor or a mental health provider if you feel worried, fearful, or anxious, which is difficult to control and interferes with your daily life. Professional advice or treatment can help youΒ overcome your anxiety and reclaim control.
If you have questions about managing your anxiety or implementing lifestyle changes to reduce anxiety, pleaseΒ email meΒ to share your thoughts.
Make healthy living a part of every day.
The light in me honors the light in you. Namaste.
Dr. Nandi
Parthaβs Rx
- Get enough physical exercise.Β Moving with purpose will not only lift your mood, but itβs also a powerful stress reducer.
- When you feel anxious β take action.Β Go for a walk,Β meditate or try visualization techniques, as they can all help ease anxiety.
- Learn what triggers your anxiety.Β Keep a diary to help identify whatβs causing your stress.
- Donβt turn to substances like alcohol, drugs, or nicotine to manage nervousness.Β They can worsen existing anxiety and trigger additional anxiety.
