If you have ever had “butterflies” or have been stressed to the point of your stomach hurting, you’ve experienced the gut/brain connection firsthand. Even the thought of food can activate your digestive system because it’s intimately connected with your brain and central nervous system. They are in constant communication, sending messages back and forth. So not only can stress make your stomach hurt, but your stomach hurting can actually stress you out!
Researchers have discovered that people with digestive issues may actually experience pain more acutely due to the sensitivity in their gut. Any added stress can cause this pain to seem even more intense. Some of the most common gut and digestive system issues related to stress are heartburn, abdominal cramping, and bloating. The good news is, researchers also found that people who were able to reduce stress have seen significant improvement in their digestive complaints.
- Your brain and gut are continually communicating, with your mood affecting your gut and your gut affecting your mood.
- Digestive issues like heartburn, abdominal cramps, and bloating can all occur due to stress.
- Reducing daily stress has been shown to improve many of those digestive issues significantly.
Gut and digestive issues can place a tremendous amount of stress on your daily life. By reducing your stress with a combination of exercise, diet, and Chiropractic care, you give your gut the best opportunity to stay balanced and happy. If you have any questions about your gut health, let us know! We’re happy to help you find a natural solution!
Science Source:
Harvard Health Publishing. Healthbeat. 2018
Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Gut-Brain Connection. 2018
Leaky gut has been getting a lot of publicity over the past year, but what is it? Researchers have theorized that leaky gut is when partially digested protein and fat seep out of your digestive system and cause inflammation in your body. The inflammation, or allergic response, can lead to bloating, thyroid issues, fatigue, joint pain, digestive issues, food sensitivities, and a host of other unpleasant symptoms. As a matter of fact, one of the primary signs of leaky gut is experiencing multiple food sensitivities.
No one wants to deal with bloating, fatigue or food sensitivities, but the real reason leaky gut has become such a problem is that if left untreated, it has the potential to develop into inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even chronic fatigue syndrome. Eating lectin, gluten, and sugar have been identified as the three primary factors in developing a leaky gut. All three of these substances can affect the bacteria in your gut, promote inflammation in your intestines, and even lead to micro-tears that cause leaky gut.
- Leaky gut is a condition affecting millions of people and can result in bloating, fatigue, joint pain, and food sensitivities.
- Lectin, gluten, and sugar all contribute to the inflammation process that can lead to leaky gut.
- Removing the foods that cause leaky and rebalancing your gut bacteria can make a massive impact on your overall health.
If you want to learn more about leaky gut, and what you can do to prevent it, I invite you to join us for our upcoming complimentary “Eliminate Digestive Issues” workshop. This workshop is completely free to attend and packed with information to help you improve your gut health.
Science Source:
WebMD. Defining Leaky Gut Syndrome. 2018
Harvard Health. Leaky gut: What is it, and what does it mean for you? 2018
Bottom Line:
Bacteria is something we are trained to from childhood, but the truth is that our bodies are filled with trillions of bacteria that help play an essential role in our digestive processes and much more. Researchers have recently discovered that the types and amounts of bacteria in your gut is actually linked to your likelihood of developing diabetes, obesity, depression, and even cancer. So, it would appear that our digestive health isn’t just about what we put into our mouths, but is a critical factor in our overall health and well-being.
Why it Matters:
There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in your gut that line your entire digestive system and continuously interact with your nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. Believe it or not, these small bacteria can impact everything from your mood to the strength of your immune system! But they also are responsible for how efficiently your body is able to process the foods you eat. Imbalances in your gut bacteria can slow down your metabolism and even lead to metabolic syndrome, which is a precursor to diabetes.
- You have a unique combination of bacteria in your gut. It is specific to you, just like your fingerprint.
- A gut with too much or too little bacteria can cause a variety of health problems including constipation, irritable bowel, or metabolic syndrome.
- A healthy diet and active lifestyle can dramatically improve the overall health of your gut.
Next Steps:
Body signals such as constipation, irritable bowel, or even mood swings can be signs of an imbalanced gut. If you have been suffering from any of these symptoms, please let us know. We’re aware of the impact those body signals can have on your daily life. Our team has helped guide hundreds of people to better gut health, and we would be happy to see if we could also help you!
Science Source:
Gut Bacteria in Health and Disease. Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2013
Healthline. 10 Ways to Improve Your Gut Bacteria. 2016
Bottom Line:
Our modern diet and lifestyle have been linked to a variety of digestive issues. The overall health of your digestive system is closely tied to the food you eat, the exercise you get, and your overall stress levels.
Your digestive system is a group of organs that take the food you eat and turn it into energy and nutrients for your body. The digestive system interacts with your nervous systems, immune system, endocrine system, and others to help regulate its function.
Why it Matters:
Perhaps what’s most interesting about digestion is that it actually starts in your brain! Your hypothalamus coordinates your appetite and how much food you eat. For example, if you are tired or are stressed out, the chemicals in your brain may influence you to eat more than usual in an attempt to find balance. We call this, you guessed it, “cravings.”
- Your digestive system is a complex network of organs, systems, tissues, and nerves controlled by your brain.
- Turning the food you eat into fuel for your body is the primary job of your digestive system.
- You can get rid of your food cravings by getting regular exercise and reducing your overall stress.
Next Steps:
Understanding that cravings are caused by a variety of physiological factors, and not just willpower, is the first step to controlling them. The next step is making a decision on which factors you want to impact this week - maybe it’s beginning a new exercise routine or finding ways to reduce daily stress in your life. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you are able to take control of your cravings by making a few smart decisions with your lifestyle!
Science Source:
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Your Digestive System & How it Works. 2018
Mayo Clinic. See How Your Digestive System Works. 2018
Bottom Line:
Staying up late one night usually only results in feeling a little tired the next day, but when this happens day after day, it can really start to negatively affect your life. Research has shown that a lack of proper sleep can result in irritability, increased stress, a weakened immune system, and even joint pains. However, by developing a few healthy habits, you’ll be able to ensure that your brain and body get the rest the deserve, so you are ready to have a productive next day.
Why it Matters:
Practicing a relaxing nighttime ritual, such as powering down your electronics and reading a book, can help prepare your body for a good night's sleep - and don’t forget the TV. While some people like to sleep with the television on, researchers have found that minimizing background noise can actually help your brain get more rest. In our own office, we’ve also heard from countless patients that they get a better night’s sleep after getting adjusted, which makes sense considering the numerous benefits of Chiropractic care.
- Wind down for approximately 30 minutes before bed by turning off your electronics.
- Minimize background noise to help your brain get much-deserved rest.
- Many patients report a more restful sleep after getting adjusted.
Next Steps:
Looking for more tips on how you can get a better night's sleep? Come to our upcoming workshop where we’ll teach you about the best sleep position for your spine, how sleep helps your immune system stay strong, and how Chiropractic care can decrease the stress you hold in those muscles supporting your neck and shoulders. If you want to Sleep Better Tonight, then this workshop is for you!
Science Source:
Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School 2018 EOS Sleep Centers. Dr. David Volpi
Bottom Line:
Neck and back pain are the most common reasons people experience sleep disturbances. Patients talk about sleeping on the floor, or sleeping in a lazy boy, or even sleeping bent over their bed attempting to get into a position that helps them get those few precious moments of rest and relief. Talk about a pain! All you want is the ability to get some rest, yet every position seems to make things feel worse. Well, don’t worry - you’re in the right place to get back on track!
Why it Matters:
Your body needs rest to heal. If you are in pain, it can be challenging to find a comfortable position to rest. As Chiropractors, we understand this better than anyone. Chiropractic care has been shown to increase your spinal range of motion, decrease inflammation, and even reduce the pressure on the delicate nerves exiting your spinal column - all of which will make it much easier to find a comfortable sleep position.
Next Steps:
If stress has kept you up at night, you're not alone. However, you can rest easy knowing you’re in the right place! Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the stress in the muscles supporting your head and neck, allowing you to experience a more comfortable - and more restful - night of sleep.
Science Source:
Neurophysiologic effects of spinal manipulation in patients with chronic low back pain. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2011
Bottom Line:
New research has shown that not only can a good night’s sleep keep you mentally sharp, but it can also help you stay healthy by strengthening your immune system. For years physicians have believed that sleep supports the healing process, and now new evidence has been discovered that indicates sleep also plays a role in regulating your immune function. Your immune system is the complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that protect your body from disease, so keeping that system functioning at its highest level is very important to your overall health and wellness.
Why it Matters:
While you’re asleep, your central nervous system is in constant communication with your immune system. Many immune system functions operate on a 24 hour cycle, just like your sleep schedule. In fact, your T-cells, which are some of the most important immune cells, are very, very active while you’re asleep. Everyone may not require the same amount of sleep, but the research is clear: getting a good night's sleep will help bolster your immune system.
Next Steps:
Sleeping well has been proven to be an essential part of staying healthy. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can make it extremely difficult to get a good night's sleep and leave you feeling tired and sleepy all day. If you have experienced difficulty sleeping, let us know. We have an upcoming workshop where we’ll be discussing not only the causes of many of these issues, but also the action steps you can take to FINALLY get a great night of sleep!
Science Source:
Sleep and immune function. European Journal of Physiology. 2012
One of the most common questions we get from patients is: “What's the best sleeping position?” Considering you spend nearly one-third of your life sleeping, this is an important question to ask! Top researchers have found one of the best positions to sleep is on your side with your head supported, shoulders centered, and a pillow between your legs. This allows for the best alignment of your spine and reduces the pressure on your neck, low back, hips, and legs – all of which leads to a more restful night of sleep.
Sleeping is the time where your body can maximize rest and recovery. Not only can a lack of sleep cause grogginess the next day, but chronic sleep issues can lead to depression, insomnia, and even make aches and pains worse! If you have ever woken up with a “crick” in your neck, you know how taxing an awkward sleeping position can be on your spine. Maintaining a neutral position and keeping your spine in alignment overnight is an essential part of waking up energized and ready to conquer the day.
Tonight, when you lie in bed, take a look and make sure your nose and belly button are in alignment. If they are, it’s a good sign your spine is in both an optimal and comfortable sleep posture. Then, take a small pillow and place it between your knees to give your legs and hips that proper added support. Following these quick tips will help you get into the best position to have a great night's sleep.
Science Source:
National Sleep Foundation. www.sleep.org
Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School 2018
Bottom Line:
You know that feeling - the one where you start to feel a headache coming on. For many people, it is a daily occurrence and often begins in the neck and shoulders. That’s right - tight muscles around your neck can result in tension headaches. What’s more, if you sit at a computer all day, your posture may also be contributing to a decreased range of motion, premature degenerative changes in your spine, and headaches - but there’s good news! There are a few simple steps you can take to help you feel less pain, increase your energy, and fend off those degenerative changes. New evidence-based guidelines strongly recommend a combination of exercise, stretching, and Chiropractic adjustments to help reduce neck pain, headaches, and muscle tension.
Why it Matters:
Chronic neck pain can rob you of the things you love. Enjoying your hobbies, taking a few moments to relax, and time with your family can all be affected. However, neck pain and headaches don’t have to be a part of your daily life. By understanding the latest research, you can take massive action to improve your health. Check out the next steps below to find a few tips to help you take your life back from pain.
Next Steps:
It’s exciting that research has continued to showcase that you’re in charge of your health. Your habits and lifestyle can make a massive impact. Start reducing neck pain today by taking breaks every 45-60 minutes and stretching out your neck and shoulders. Take a brisk walk during lunch or hit the gym a few times a week to increase your activity levels. Finally, don’t forget about getting adjusted. Research proves that Chiropractic adjustments are a smart decision!
Science Source(s):
Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise with Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain- A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 156, 2012
Perceived Value of Spinal Manipulative Therapy and Exercise Among Seniors with Chronic Neck Pain: A Mixed Methods Study. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. 2014
Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Neck Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 37. 2014Outcomes from Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Symptomatic Cervical Disk Herniation Patients Treated with High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2013
Bottom Line: Spinal discs play an essential role in your low back, acting as small shock absorbers and giving you the ability to move in many different directions. Your discs are comprised of two major parts: an outer ring of cartilage, which provides support, and a jelly-like center that facilities motion. As age and injuries catch up with us, the discs can herniate. A herniated disc occurs when the middle (the jelly) of the disc breaks through the outer wall, irritating a spinal nerve and causing severe pain in your back or leg. Researchers have found this most often occurs between the ages of 35-50.
Why it Matters: Almost everyone knows someone who has suffered from pain caused by a herniated, slipped, or bulging disc. The pain can be so intense that many people think surgery is the only way to correct it. Well, we have good news. Research has shown people who chose Chiropractic adjustments had the same amount of relief as those who chose surgery! And what about those medications that mask the pain but fail to correct the problem? Well, research has shown Chiropractic adjustment to be significantly better than many of the common drugs prescribed for back pain.
Here are some take away points: - Top-research journal, SPINE, has recommended the use of adjustments for back pain. - Adjustments were shown to provide significantly more relief than medications. - Adjustments have been shown to be just as effective as surgery for taking care of herniated discs. Next Steps: Your spinal discs stay healthy by having strong muscular support and a full range of motion. Keep your spine stabilizing muscles healthy by committing to daily exercise. And what about maintaining a full range of motion? It’s easy! Chiropractic adjustments gently and effective help restore proper range of motion in your neck, mid-back, and low back.
When your spine is moving well with appropriate support, you’re going to be feeling great! Science Source(s): Spinal High-Velocity Low Amplitude Manipulation in Acute Nonspecific Low Back Pain. SPINE. 2013 Manipulation or Microdiskectomy for Sciatica? A Prospective Randomized Clinical Study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2010
By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our company.
