Within the framework of World Digestive Health Daytoday more than ever the importance of taking care of our digestive system becomes relevant, not only because of the functions that we commonly associate with it, but also because of its close relationship with our Mental Wellness.
Various studies have shown that up to 90% of serotonin, known as the “happiness hormone”, is produced in the intestinewhich makes our intestinal microbiota a fundamental ally for mental health.
The intestinal microbiota, formerly known as intestinal florais a set of billions of microorganisms that live in our digestive system, forming a complex and diverse ecosystem.
This microbial community, made up of more than 1,000 different species of bacteria and 3 million genes, plays a crucial role in our health, influencing aspects such as digestion, nutrient absorption, the immune system and even, as already mentioned, in the production of serotonin.
Serotonin: The connection between gut and mood
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter essential for regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other cognitive functions.. Although it is mainly produced in the brain, a significant percentage, up to 90%, originates in our intestine. The intestinal microbiota intervenes in this process through the production of a key enzyme for the synthesis of serotonin.
A healthy gut, a healthy mind
Maintaining a balanced gut microbiota is not only essential for preventing metabolic and chronic diseases, but can also significantly contribute to our mental health. A study published in the journal Nature found that people with lower levels of beneficial bacteria in their gut were at greater risk of depression.
Various factors can alter the balance of the intestinal microbiota, such as genetics, diet, chronic stress, lack of sleep and a sedentary lifestyle. Fortunately, there are measures we can take to take care of this valuable ecosystem:
Balanced diet rich in probiotics: Including fruits, vegetables, legumes, seeds and fermented foods such as yogurt in your daily diet provides fiber and live microorganisms that benefit the intestinal microbiota.
Adequate hydration: Drinking at least two liters of water a day helps maintain fluid balance in the intestine, which promotes the health of the microbiota.
Stress reduction and regular physical activity: Stress and a sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect the intestinal microbiota. Practicing regular physical activity and relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can be of great help.
#intestine #ally #mood
