Keeping You Informed

The heart-gut axis refers to the close connection between the heart and the gut. It is well known that the gut and the heart are connected by the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in the communication between the two organs. However, recent research has suggested that the connection between the heart and the gut goes beyond this physical link.

The gut-brain axis is a fascinating communication network involving the gut, brain, and nervous system. Signals travel through the vagus nerve and various neurotransmitters, shaping how we feel, think, and respond emotionally.One standout neurotransmitter is serotonin, often called the “feel-good chemical.” What may surprise you is that over 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut, not the brain. When the gut microbiome thrives, serotonin production can function optimally, supporting happiness and mental stability.

A healthy diet ensures an athlete has a foundation to become stronger and helps repair the body following competition.

I was very pleased with the detail of the report. It confirmed some things I already suspected and keyed in on my very specific needs regarding my gut health. The follow up consultation was very informative. This is something I’ve been wanting to do for a while and I am so pleased it is offered in NL. It is the age of being proactive with our own health, especially now with the crisis in our healthcare system. I am looking forward to receiving the road map and implementing the suggestions from the report. Will definitely repeat the Gutcheck after a period of making changes. If our government is not subsidizing this now, they should be. Over all I am very satisfied and have been recommending it to family and friends.

It has been well-established that diet greatly influences an individual’s microbiome. Less known is the fact that infants share a very similar microbiome profile as their mothers. This similarity changes as we age, but new research has shown that your microbiome evolves to mimic that of other family members, friends, and neighbours. A recent study published in Nature recognized that interpersonal relationships could possibly shape the genetic makeup of an individual’s microbiome, and that microbiome-linked disease may in fact be transmissible – small talk with your neighbour may start to involve a little more than just the current weather.

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are small molecules produced following the breakdown of dietary fibre by bacteria in the gut microbiome. The most abundant SCFAs in the body include acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These small molecules certainly do not go unrecognized; they pack a punch despite their size. SCFAs play a role in maintaining gut health and protection against disease. They help regulate several important metabolic pathways and are involved in obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.

High-sugar drinks featuring artificial sweeteners may be causing gut dysbiosis, which can negatively affect overall health. High-sugar beverages, such as soda and juices, contain elevated levels of simple sugars, which can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungi in the gut.

Recent studies have shown that a high intake of sugars can decrease bacterial diversity, increase the relative abundance of Proteobacteria in your gut microbiome and decrease the abundance of health-promoting species [1]. These changes to microbiota can lead to compromised gut barrier functions, systemic (low-grade) inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation [1].

The vegan diet is popular worldwide, not just for its ethical reasons but also for its potential health benefits. One of the most important elements of any healthy diet are prebiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that help grow good gut bacteria, which promotes gut health and overall well-being. We compiled a list of 10 prebiotic foods that you can add to your vegan diet today to take control of your gut health [1].

The gut is home to trillions of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms play essential roles in digestion, metabolism, and overall health. But perhaps their most critical function lies in how they interact with the immune system.Around 70% of the body’s immune cells are located in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), where immune responses are initiated and regulated. The microbiome acts as a constant trainer for these immune cells, teaching them how to distinguish between harmful invaders and beneficial or neutral substances. This helps prevent autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, as well as hyperinflammation, a common feature of many chronic diseases.