“There is a constant communication between our brain and our stomach. Therefore, imbalances can cause changes in mood, increase the response to stressthe anxiety and even the depression“says cardiac surgeon Jeremy Londo, one of the most recognized in the United States.
In statements collected by the media ClarionLondon states that “90% of the serotonin It is compiled in our gastrointestinal tract.” This substance is related to mood, motivation, and a feeling of calm.
It maintains that the intestine is connected to the brain through a communication network known as gut-brain axis. Therefore, what happens in the digestive system has a direct impact on the emotional. Emphasize that “70% of our body’s immune function lives in our intestine”hence the crucial point of maintaining a healthy digestive system, which helps us digest better and protect us from the action of viruses, bacteria and toxins.
The specialist emphasizes the importance of prevention in cardiovascular health. Through its website, podcast and social networks, it shares crucial information to promote healthy lifestyles and the reduction of risk factors.
Healthy habits to avoid the operating room
London advises avoiding tobacco, reducing sugar and alcohol consumption, and adopting a balanced diet. These changes may prevent the need for surgical interventions.
Likewise, it recommends incorporating prebiotics and probiotics in the diet to strengthen intestinal health, as well as performing regular aerobic exercise to strengthen the heart and minimize the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Imbalance in brain-stomach communication
Symptoms that indicate an imbalance in the communication between the brain and the stomach (gut-brain axis) are divided into digestive symptoms and neuropsychiatric/emotional symptomssince the alteration is bidirectional:
Main digestive symptoms:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort. Chronic pain, bloating and persistent gas.
- Traffic disturbances. Diarrhea, constipation or alternation between both.
- Functional dyspepsia. Indigestion, stomach heaviness, difficulty emptying the stomach.
- Nausea. Feeling of nausea without a clear organic cause.
- Visceral hypersensitivity. Perception of discomfort due to stimuli that other people do not notice (distension, peristalsis).
Emotional and cognitive symptoms:
- Anxiety and stress. Common in people with digestive disorders; Emotional distress disrupts digestion.
- Depression. Low mood associated with intestinal imbalances.
- mental fatigue. Prolonged fatigue and brain fog.
- Unexplained mood swings. Emotional disturbances without apparent cause.
Related disorders:
The most common imbalance is sulky bowel syndrome (IBS)which affects many patients and is characterized by visceral hypersensitivity and altered motility. Others include functional dyspepsia, functional constipation, and cyclic vomiting syndrome.
If you experience persistent digestive discomfort combined with mood swings or prolonged tirednessit is advisable to consult a professional.
How intestinal health affects cardiovascular health
Related cardiovascular diseases:
- Atherosclerosis: 5 protective bacterial species have been identified (Eubacteria, Anaeroplasma, Roseburia, Oscillospira, Dehalobacteria) that prevent atherosclerotic plaque lesions.
- Hypertension: Presents an increase in the relationship Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and decrease in acetate and butyrate producing bacteria.
- Heart failure: Patients have more pathogenic bacteria (Candida, Campylobacter, Shigella) correlated with greater severity.
Long-term evidence:
A study of 7 years of follow-up confirmed that the composition of the intestinal microbiota predicts the probability of developing new cardiovascular events, even in patients who have already suffered a heart attack.
How to protect both systems:
A healthy microbiota is achieved with high fiber diet, long-established physical activity and avoiding excess processed foods, which can reduce inflammation, improve blood pressure and long-established cholesterol.
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