“All disease begins in the gut” is a quote from the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who lived 2,500 years ago. As we learn more about gut health, the microbiome, and disease, it appears that Hippocrates’ assertion was quite accurate.

1. Gut-Brain-Axis and the Nervous System: 

There is a great deal of research on the 

importance of the GI system and its impact on our health. There is a direct connection between our gut and our brain. This is referred to as the gut-brain-axis (GBA). The GBA is best described as a two-way communication between the gut and brain. Messages are sent from the gut to the brain via 500 million nerves that live in the gut through the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the part of our nervous system that controls automatic responses, like heartbeat and digestion. The vagus nerve’s fibers run from our gut to the base of our brain, and the messaging goes each way between the gut and the brain.

2. Gut Permeability: 

How do gut issues affect our brain? The gut’s cells are held together like glue by “tight junctions.” When these tight junctions become “leaky” – or abnormally permeable – food particles and undesirable substances leak into the circulatory system and that can cause increased inflammation and inappropriate immune responses. Many chronic diseases are directly linked to excess gut permeability, and this includes things like mood disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and even autism.

3. Dysbiosis: 

All systems in the body are interconnected, and are under the direct control of our nervous system. The microbe in the gut helps support balance throughout the body. The microbiome aids in the development of our immune system and can be a predictor of future health or disease. The multiple and various beneficial organisms in our gut can prevent the invasion of pathogenic organisms and also help produce vitamins. These organisms also assist the body in absorbing nutrients and regulating inflammatory processes throughout our body. Recent studies confirm that changes in the gut-brain axis contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, psychiatric diseases, and stroke. Changes in the gut-brain axis have also been associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies show that gastrointestinal problems are 23-70 percent more prevalent in ASD children, and children with ASD and GI problems also have more behavioral problems overall.

The Takeaway: 

So, what can we do to support a healthy microbiome – and ultimately brain health? 

Regular Chiropractic care is a great place to start. Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in maintaining microbiome health by addressing neural strain patterns that disrupt the gut-brain communication. Chiropractic adjustments alleviate pressure on the nervous system through our body, allowing for optimal gut-brain communication. This, in turn, supports the gut microbiome, the gut-brain axis, and enhances 

nutrient absorption. Taking a prebiotic and/or a probiotic supplement may also be helpful. In addition, emphasis should be given to a nutrient-dense, whole-food diet (less fast food and processed foods). Likewise, managing stress, maintaining regular sleep habits, and getting regular exercise are all beneficial. Thankfully, many factors that impact our health are within our own grasp when we commit to healthy lifestyle changes.

Yours in Health

Dr Mark