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The vagus nerve delivers a variety of signals between the digestive system and the brain. It travels from the brainstem down through the neck to the abdomen, innervating areas of the face, throat, ear, and heart, as well as the whole digestive tract. 

Additionally, the vagus nerve is considered the main part of the parasympathetic nervous system. This system drives what’s often referred to as the body’s “rest and digest” state. So, for the digestive system to work at its best, the body needs to be in a relaxed state.    (more…)

Though the gut and the brain aren’t positioned near each other within the human body, the two are closely connected. Your gut can significantly impact your mental health, contributing to issues including anxiety and depression. 

Here, we’ll discuss the link between the gut and the mind, as well as strategies for promoting optimal gut health.  (more…)

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in the U.S. An estimated 16 out of 100 American adults experience symptoms of constipation, and 33 out of 100 adults over the age of 60 have constipation symptoms. 

Understanding what causes constipation, to begin with, can help you avoid this digestive issue. Here, we’ll discuss constipation and the factors that most frequently cause it.  (more…)

Your digestive system plays a crucial role in your body’s overall function. Whenever you eat or drink, the organs of the digestive system break down what you consume and convert it into fuel for energy, development, and ultimately support your body’s repair processes. 

Unfortunately, digestive issues are common and can be presented in many forms. Discomfort, bloating, and gas are three common symptoms that often accompany digestive concerns. 

Understanding the possible signs of digestive issues can put you on the road towards better gastrointestinal health. These reasons include: (more…)

In a healthy gut, there’s a balance of bacteria that’s crucial for digestion. However, if the balance of this bacteria is disrupted, it can negatively impact your health. SIBO is a condition that’s caused by excess bacteria in the small intestine, and it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Here, we’ll discuss SIBO, what causes it, and what you can do to prevent it. 

Understanding SIBO

SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Also referred to as blind loop syndrome, SIBO occurs when bacteria, namely those that aren’t typically found in the small intestine, increase abnormally. This compromises the health of the small intestine and can interfere with digestion.  (more…)

Have you ever heard of digestive enzymes? These small proteins play a powerful role in the body’s digestive process, making them essential to the health of your gut and entire body. While digestive enzymes are produced naturally in the body, they’re also found in certain foods and supplements. 

As we age digestive enzymes decrease, particularly one called hydrochloric acid. Digestive enzymes are important for breaking down food, a decrease in the number of these enzymes makes it harder for the body to properly digest what you eat.

Digestive enzymes can provide many benefits to your overall health, including: (more…)