Change to the composition of gut microbiome has been shown to affect mood,  pain tolerance, cognitive function and behavior. Anxiety or depression can in turn  change the framework of our gut flora thereby impacting gut health. Itʼs the  chicken or the egg phenomena! In essence, functional bowel issues can be the  cause or the effect of anxiety, stress, or depression. In addition to demonstrating  links to mental and emotional wellbeing, gut health is key to a proper immune  system. Modulating gut microbiota is essential to metabolism and therefore  managing obesity, weight gain and diabetes. Did I mention heart health?  

Another indicator of gut microbiome diversity is sleep physiology. Stress anyone?  Sleep, or lack thereof, has been closely correlated to anxiety and depression.  People who are sleep deprived are also less likely to exercise, eat healthfully, have  sex, and engage in leisure activities. This myriad of poor lifestyle habits are a  catalyst for inflammation and gut dysfunction further exacerbating an already  stressed system. Weʼre back to the loop of cause and effect.  

Insert stress reduction. Regular stress management is nonnegotiable when it  comes to gut and general health. We all know that a mindfulness practice like  yoga, meditation or float therapy can go a long way. What we may not know is that  being quiet and present before eating can decrease stress and actually improve  digestion. So, before you plan your next meal, first, a word of gratitude! Did you  know that simply expressing gratitude causes the brain to release  neurotransmitters responsible for our feel good emotions while also reducing  stress hormones? This simple signal to our brain in turn communicates positive  messages to our gut microbiome. Remember the cause and effect loop? 

Insert gratitude. I find that cultivating a mealtime gratitude practice is a wonderful  way to shift your mindset and energy. Since we eat several times per day, imagine  the impact of reveling in gratitude throughout the day. Aligning yourself with the  spirit of gratitude is like the gift that will keep on giving. Take a moment to enjoy  the colors on your plate. Foster healthier and happier connections to your food,  and your gut will beam with resilience. After all, enjoying good food isnʼt just about  eating- its also about the pleasure of companionship and the abundance of nature!