The Gut-Brain Connection — How Ayurveda Supports Mental Health Naturally

The gut isn't just for digestion — it's your second brain. Here's how Ayurveda nurtures both body and mind.

The Gut-Brain Connection

Source : ABPLIVE AI

(By: Ahmed, Director, Poshaan)

Ayurvedic texts studied the gut and its connection to the brain. Ancient wisdom believed for quite a while now that the “digestive system”, also known as the second brain, has a significant part to play in one's mental well-being. Not only does the food you eat have an impact on your physical health, but it greatly affects your emotions, your thoughts, and your mood as well.

 The Science Behind The Gut-Brain Axis:

The gut and brain communicate through the gut-brain axis, a network of neurons, hormones, and biochemical signals. The ENS or enteric nervous system is the brain' s gut, and like a battery it has millions of neurons which transmit messages to the brain and spinal cord via the vagus nerve. Not only that, but the gut microbiome aka the trillions of bacteria that reside in your intestines also produces a handful of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which serve to modulate mood and emotions.

A whopping 90% of serotonin production is from the gut, which is known to be the happiness hormone. Any issues in the digestive system are capable of disturbing its balance which may results in developing anxiety, stress or even some depression. Ayurvedic practices revolve around maintaining a balanced gut for improved gut health. 

 Ayurveda And Menta Health: The Role Of Diet

Ayurveda divides food into three categories based on the influence they have on the mind:

• Satvic Foods: These refer to the fresh, wholesome and nourishing foods that aid in providing a calm and balanced state. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, dairy products, and whole grains are examples of foods that are rich in nutrients.  
• Rajasic Foods: Stimulating foods that are fried or sugary such as fried snacks and donuts and even coffee are restlessness inducing.  
• Tamasic Foods: Fast food, packaged snacks, and alcohol are negative emotions inducing food that are heavy, stale, and processed. 

Ayurveda emphasises the health of an individual’s body and mind focuses on the consumption of sattvic foods and reduction in rajasic and tamasic items.  

 Lifestyle Practices For Better Gut And Mental Health  

• Mindful Eating: Distracting oneself whilst eating can negatively impact the way food is digested, and improving one’s concentration can lead to proper chewing of food which allows the food to be digested better.
• Nutrition: Herbal teas such as cumin-fennel-coriander tea or warm water can be consumed to help in gut detoxification.  
• Routine Physical Activity: Stress management and gut functionality enhancement is achieved through pranayama and yoga.  
• Sufficient Rest: The balance of emotions and digestion is maintained through a controlled sleep pattern.  

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article shared by experts, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]