How does gut microbiome affect brain function?

What is gut microbiome?

The gut microbiome refers to the collection of microorganisms that live in our digestive tract. These include some bacteria, viruses and fungi.

There is overwhelming evidence that gut microbiome affects our brain function.

How does it do that?

It produces hormones and neurotransmitters that can affect mood, behavior and cognition. It digests certain food that produces metabolites that are harmful for the brain. Gut mibcoribome can also trigger inflammation that negatively affects the brain function.

So, How to maintain a healthy gut microbiome?

Well, Eating variety of food helps. Whole grain, fruits, vegetables, fermented food, high fiber food. Take probiotics. Also regular exercise also improves diversity of gut microbiome.

What are the things to avoid? - Avoid processed and refined food, especially food with added sugar. Antibiotics can kill healthy gut bacteria, so avoid taking unnecessary antibiotics.

Healthy and diverse gut microbiome is essential for healthy brain function.