The nervous system in our gut has been called the ‘second brain’. It is connected to our brain via sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways and has bi-directional activity. In simple terms, this is the gut-brain axis, and it works both ways. A review published in October 2021 discusses the roles of gut bacteria and intestinal cells in chronic pain, neuropathy and hyperalgesia (increased sensitivity or response to pain)1. It is important to note that many studies which explain pathways and signalling are carried out in mice. This is very common in cell signalling and in nutrition. [Read more…]
Dark chocolate helps our mood and our gut – hurrah!
Many of us may be able to relate to feeling better when we eat dark chocolate. Several of it’s constituents have known positive effects on mood. These include theobromine and tryptophan, the precursor to our feel good neurotransmitter serotonin. However, new research has shown another way in which dark chocolate enhances mood – by changing our microbiome. This community of bacteria, archae, yeasts and other organisms that reside mainly in our gut profoundly affects our mood and immune system as well as our digestion.
The Urobiome – the urinary tract microbiome
For many years, scientists and healthcare professionals believed the urine to be almost sterile. Now we know much more about the bacteria that live in our body and know that we have a microbiome not only in our gut, but in the mouth, vagina, the placenta and in the urinary tract. [Read more…]
Healthier Halloween ideas
Some sources estimate that Irish children eat between 3500 and 7000 calories from Halloween sweets each year, mostly in the form of sugar. But does that really matter? And what can we do about it anyway? Watch Heather share some tips on Virgin Media Weekend AM . Or, read more below and get our healthier Halloween recipe ideas.
Protein myths & facts
Confused about how much protein you need? We separate some myths from facts! Read on, or watch Heather explain on Virgin Media Weekend AM.
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