Ever feel like your gut has a mind of its own? Like it’s dictating your mood, your energy, your entire day? Actually…it is.
Understanding that your gut is more than just an engine for digestion, it is considered your ‘second brain,’ can be empowering. It has a lot to say about your overall well-being.
You’re not just bloated; you’re bothered. That 3 am bathroom break, the constant intestinal discomfort, the anxiety of venturing too far from a toilet – it’s more than just a pain in the ass. It’s emotional turbulence, and your gut is fueling the fire – the gut and the brain work hand in hand.
Let’s talk real-life science. Did you know that 95% of your serotonin, the ‘happy hormone,’ is produced in your intestines? Your gut is a major player in mood regulation. But when your gut is inflamed or ‘leaky,’ it’s not just your digestion that suffers. It’s your brain, too.
Imagine: Your gut and brain constantly send signals back and forth. When the flora in your gut microbiome are out of balance, they send alarm signals to your brain, leading to anxiety, mood swings, and even brain fog. Likewise, when you feel down and depressed and start to crave ‘comfort food,’ it’s a signal from your brain that something’s not right in your gut. These cravings often lead to the consumption of foods high in sugar and fat, which can further disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome.
Patients come to me frustrated and feeling trapped by their gastrointestinal issues. They’re tired of feeling like their gut is running the show. They’re ready to reclaim their lives and experience a lasting transformation in their health.
That’s where functional medicine comes in. At Colorado Natural Medicine & Acupuncture, we understand the complexities between your gut and brain. We don’t just treat the unfavorable symptoms; we address the root causes of the imbalances at play, offering a path to relief and restoration.
So, how do you know if your gut is impacting your mood? Ask yourself:
- How is my nutrition?
- Are my bowels moving regularly?
- Am I hydrated?
- Have I been feeling down or sluggish?
If any of these areas could improve, it’s time to give your gut microbiome some love.
Here’s how we can help, with services that are proven to make a difference:
- Functional Testing: We use specialized testing to get a clear picture of what’s happening in your gut – from inflammation and microbiome imbalances to parasites and digestive function. This may include comprehensive stool tests like the Gut Zoomer (which you can conveniently order through us online) or GI Effects by Genova Labs. We may also recommend a micronutrient panel or food sensitivity test to round out the picture and guide your personalized care plan to identify potential imbalances.
- Personalized Nutrition: We can create a personalized gut-healing meal plan that nourishes your mind and body.
- Lifestyle Modifications: We help you incorporate stress-reducing techniques and gentle movement to support the repair of your gut microbiome.
Ready to make your gut/ brain connection symbiotic? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Graves to discuss your digestive concerns and explore how functional testing and medicine can help you restore health and happiness. New patients can schedule a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Graves, ND, LAc, online or by calling (303) 688-6698.
Dr. Graves is a Naturopathic Doctor and Licensed Acupuncturist at Colorado Naturopathic Medicine & Acupuncture which is located in Castle Rock, CO.
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