Education
Many people know that probiotics are good, but few actually know what they are and why we need them. Today, we'll take a quick look at probiotics, the sources where you can get them, and some of the most common signs that you need a probiotic.
If you’re struggling with cognitive issues, your first instinct is probably not to think about your gut health. However, as more scientific research unfolds, experts are finding that your digestion could play a major role in determining how well your brain functions.
Scientists refer to this as the “gut-brain” connection, or “gut-brain axis.” While this a cutting-edge area of study, the research coming forward shows a connection between the two that is more complex and amazing than we ever realized. In this brief article, we’ll look at how the two are connected and what you can do to maintain your gut health for optimal brain function.
I think we would all agree that it has been a challenging and crazy year. What better time than now to reevaluate our schedule and to start working on healthier habits.
Many of us need a total transformation, but too many drastic lifestyle changes at once usually isn’t the recipe for long term success. Start small: pick one tiny health habit at a time, until it’s a natural part of your routine.
Haven’t made your New Year's resolutions yet? It’s not too late! Your resolutions don’t have to be about just hitting the gym or losing weight, they can also focus on your brain health and overall wellness. The beginning of the year is a terrific time to reflect on what you want to accomplish and improve over the next 12 months. Here are a few brain-healthy recommendations that will serve you well all year:
If you’ve been struggling with sleep lately, there might be a simple, free solution that’s as old as the hills: gratitude. Several studies have revealed that writing in a gratitude journal before bed may help improve sleep quality and duration. In a trial conducted by the University of Manchester (UK), participants who kept a gratitude journal slept on average 30 minutes more. They also reported feeling more refreshed upon waking, and were more alert during the day.
You’ve probably heard serotonin talked about in the news or in commercials, especially when it comes to mood and pharmaceuticals. But what is serotonin? To put it simply, serotonin is a chemical produced inside your body. It’s classified as a neurotransmitter, which means it sends signals back and forth between different nerve cells.
Everyone knows that exercise makes us look good and feel good. In fact, Dr. Frank Hu, professor of nutrition at Harvard once said, “The single thing that comes close to a magic bullet in terms of its strong and universal benefits, is exercise (source.)” That’s a pretty strong endorsement, and most would agree. But what a lot of us don’t realize is the massive effect that exercise can have on our brain.
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that your body needs for many vital processes, including building and maintaining your brain function, immune system and bone structure. Over 85% of people have insufficient vitamin D levels, which is particularly concerning given the pandemic and lack of sunshine in the winter months. Here are 3 effective ways to increase your vitamin D levels.
If you’ve ever wondered if there’s anything you can do to boost your memory, then you’re in luck! There are many practical steps you can take to improve your ability to remember. Many of them are lifestyle elements: the foods you eat, how active you are, etc. However, there are also simple tricks and tactics you can employ to optimize your cognitive function. Scroll down to discover the ways you can help keep your memory sharp and well-maintained over the long term.
It is said that love is one of the greatest things in life. Now research is confirming what people have intuitively known for centuries. Many studies have shown that people who are in enriching, loving relationships tend to live longer, more fulfilling lives. Being in love and being loved in return not only is good for our health, but it feels amazing as well. This article will introduce the roles of hormones and neurotransmitters in your brain, especially those that have to do with love.
Each day, stress hormones run through our bodies influencing many of our imperative functions –– including metabolism, energy, blood sugar, sex drive and sleep. When our hormones are in balance, we feel generally strong, resilient, positive, and joyful. When our hormones are out of whack, we wake up in the middle of the night, eat an unhealthy diet (sugar, fried foods, etc…) or lash out at others.
We’ve all been there. The deadline is looming and you know it’s finally time to sit down and complete the task or project you have been putting off. Instead, it dawns on you that you haven’t watered the plants this week, you’re behind on laundry, and you haven’t checked your email today. The satisfaction of getting that project or task done just doesn’t have the same immediate reward of spending time in nature or catching up on the news.
