Local Leader | Stephen Carroll: Gut bacteria and mental health

Many of us know that we are going to eat and drink too much, or eat many things that are not in our usual diet.

For a while now it has been known that the good bacteria that live in our digestive system, called the microbiome, play a crucial role in our mental health.

We know now a great deal of how this works and we do know that when it is out of whack it can cause depression and anxiety.

As well as mental health this microbiome affects weight loss, ability to learn and a range of other health issues.

We need to look after this, so how do we do it?

Well, we need to increase the resistant starch and fibre in our diet.

These two things do not get digested early on in the digestive system so pass through the gut and finally feed the microbiome.

Increasing fibre and resistant starch means using more vegetables and pulses like lentils, peas and potatoes.

All these things are available fresh and those in a can are fine too, but check the sugar and salt content.

When the party season is over and done with, make a New Year’s resolution to increase your gut bacteria.

Your brain will definitely thank you for it.

Please consult your health provider before changing your diet.