BIG (Brain, Immune, Gut) Things are Coming Your Way

Did you know that your not only are your brain and gut connected, but so is your immune system? This is referred to as brain, immune, gut or BIG communication pathway. When this complex communication system goes haywire, symptoms and disease can result.

The gut communicates through the vagus nerve, the longest nerve in our bodies to the brain. While the gut is referred to as the “second brain”, the majority of signals actually originate from the gut to our brain. If our gut is not functioning properly because of the foods we eat, or the toxins or organisms we are exposed to, our gut microbiome becomes imbalanced, meaning that we have what is called “dysbiosis”. When our normal gut functions such as secretion of enzymes, stomach acid (HCl), bile, or gut motility are compromised, we are no longer able to properly digest and absorb nutrients.

Gut symptoms may include bloating, gas, reflux, heartburn, constipation, loose stools, or IBS. Compromised digestion and mineral imbalances can impact both our immune system and brain function. When our gut becomes leaky, whether from trauma, stress, or food sensitivities, or what is called increased intestinal permeability, food particles and immune complexes which are normally contained within the gut, start leaking through the gut lining and into our circulation. This results in triggering our immune systems and inflammation results. Food sensitivities may develop.

Depending on where the immune system gets most activated by food particles leaking out of the gut, diseases such as arthritis, other autoimmune diseases chronic infections, hollow space infections (think bladder, vagina, sinuses), pain, swelling, or allergies may result. The gut communicates to the brain through peptides, hormones, cytokines, and the microbiome. Activation of the immune system may cause the brain to become inflamed; symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, depression, anxiety, weakness, or even vertigo may occur.

When helping clients identify the triggers and potential causes of BIG problems, as a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-Ps), I help clients test, not guess to find underlying causes of imbalances. These tests provide indicators of gut permeability issues, digestion issues, gut dysbiosis issues, hormonal imbalances, mineral and vitamin imbalances, exposure to toxins, and more. Based on the client’s history, clues to potential imbalances help to guide selection of lab tests to uncover healing opportunities. After sharing test results and correlating with the client’s history, I work with clients to develop an individualized natural healing protocol. If you are experiencing symptoms and are looking to address BIG things coming your way to get your communication channels open and working smoothly, contact me for a free discovery call here.