Synergy PT Sports Med May 2018

Boost Your Mood With PROBIOTICS A Yogurt State of Mind

something to do with the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is a major nerve that connects the brain and stomach. Bacterial activity in the gut may stimulate the nerve, causing it to produce chemicals in the brain

of specific probiotics on humans. Over a 30-day period, they noted a decrease in the signs of depression and anxiety. Many more studies are currently underway. The future of probiotics for the brain is promising. As we learn more about the connection between the gut and the brain, we may even be able to treat specific psychological conditions using probiotics. For now, though, if you want to boost your mood, reach for the yogurt. Just be sure to skip the sugar-laden processed stuff. Go straight for a high-quality Greek yogurt or, if you can find it, an Icelandic-style yogurt called skyr. Both varieties are packed with helpful probiotics and may help you change your state of mind.

that can change your state of mind.

Probiotics — a helpful type of bacteria — are abundant in Greek yogurt and other cultured foods, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. When you eat these foods, the cultures they contain may be able to influence your mood. If you need a mood booster, yogurt might help. Studies in both mice and humans show promising results. In one Caltech study, researchers observed a decrease in anxiety in mice given certain probiotics. In another study published in The British Journal of Nutrition, researchers observed the effects

Y our body plays host to thousands of types of bacteria. The gastrointestinal tract alone is a remarkable ecosystem, filled with millions upon millions of microscopic organisms. These organisms play a key role in your ability to digest and process nutrients. But they also play another important role that’s not so obvious: They influence your mood and the way you think.

Researchers are studying the “how” behind the connection, but they suspect it has

What Our Patients Are Saying

“I came to Synergy PT for my lower back pain. It was very chronic and started getting worse. The pain was starting to interfere with my everyday activities. Even walking was getting painful, and because of that, I did not want to do anything. I couldn’t bend down, and sleeping was hard to do because I felt the pain. I went to my doctor, who referred me to get PT. I then scheduled my appointment and was seen by Anthony. He was a game-changer! He listened to everything and knew exactly what was going on. He set up the most rewarding and challenging exercises that got me back on my feet and feeling great! It’s a work in progress, but Anthony did not give up, making sure I felt supported and reassured that I will get better. I’m so glad to have had the opportunity to meet the whole team, and shout out to Bridget, also! The whole team is wonderful! Thank you!” –Nicole Morales 2 www.synergyptnc.com

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online