How the Microbiome Influences Emotional Regulation, School Performance, and Mental Health
Research is uncovering a growing body of evidence indicating that the gut may act as a second brain. While the brain controls almost every function within the body, the digestive system operates independently. Additional research shows that conceptualizing the gut as a second brain could help understand the connections between gut health and some of the mental and behavioral challenges people experience. This growing body of evidence increases the emphasis on taking better care of digestive health and the potential impact on a wide array of symptoms and challenges. This deepening understanding creates opportunities for further interventions and supports to impact how people feel and function.
The Second Brain May Influence Emotions
Emeran Mayer, a professor of biobehavioral sciences at UCLA, says that nerves in the gut could play a significant role in how people feel. The feeling known as "butterflies in the stomach" could be one of the most obvious signs that the second brain influences emotional well-being. While this study was conducted 15 years ago, continued research in this area supports the findings connecting gut health and mental health symptoms.
At least one group of researchers finds that the microbes in a mouse's stomach can predict how the mouse behaves. In the experiments, researchers at McMaster University found that they could even change a mouse's behavior by switching the microbes from a fearless mouse to an anxious mouse. Once exposed to the fearless mouse's gut microbes, the anxious mouse becomes braver.
The Second Brain, School Performance and Behavior
This preliminary research suggests that the digestive system could play an important role in a student's school performance and behavior. Students with unhealthy guts may be more likely to struggle with issues like ADHD. They may also have difficulty following orders, sitting still in class or asserting themselves in healthy ways.
Even if the gut only plays a minor role in a student's behavior and school performance, parents and educators should take time to determine how they can contribute to digestive health.
Nutrition to Help Ensure a Healthy Second Brain
Maintaining a healthy gut doesn't take a lot of work. Eating probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, fermented foods and miso (for dairy-free diets) can help regulate the digestive system's bacteria. If the research is right, including these foods in a child's daily diet could improve his or her emotional well being and behavior. Scientists have found convincing evidence showing that a probiotic diet could contribute to more stable emotions and positive behavior.
About Balance 360 Nutrition
Balance 360 nutrition focuses on research-backed recommendations to optimize brain health, development, and performance. By providing education and support around our pillars of nutrition, we empower you to set a foundation of a brain-healthy lifestyle. Through one-on-one meetings with our nutrition experts, we meet you where you are and help you set realistic, achievable goals to elevate your brain health.
Our primary areas of focus consist of fuel, hydration, and reducing systemic inflammation. Fuel provides our bodies and brains the nutrients needed to function at an optimal level. Proper hydration affects every cell in our bodies. We work to identify and minimize common dietary drivers of inflammation including added sugars, ultra-processed foods, dyes and artificial sweeteners.
Disclaimer: The information presented on this web site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment of specific medical conditions. Discuss this information with your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you and your family.
