Our microbiome is a vast community of bacteria residing in our colon, and it impacts various aspects of our health, including hormones, longevity, muscle building, and fitness. These bacteria also play a role in producing neurotransmitters like Serotonin and GABA, which help us relax, reduce stress, and facilitate sleep. Some bacteria consume the nutrients we ingest, while others produce essential substances such as amino acids and vitamins. It's like a small ecosystem in our gut where bacteria eat, make food for each other, and create neurotransmitters.
Maintaining a balance in this ecosystem is crucial, and understanding what harms it is even more vital. In this article, we'll explore how the increasing influx of toxins into our bodies affects these bacteria.
The Nervous System-Microbiome Connection
Glyphosate, the chemical found in the herbicide Roundup used on major food crops, micro-plastics, and heavy metals are all substances that can harm our nerves and hormones. Neurotoxins are chemicals that can damage our nerve cells, either speeding them up or slowing them down, and in severe cases, even stopping our hearts. Additionally, these substances act as antibiotics, killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria in our microbiome.
When our nerve channels are affected, we may experience symptoms like brain fog, decreased alertness, or difficulty in thinking clearly. Changes in nerve activity can lead to hyperactivity, aggression, or a sensation of crawling skin. Severe nerve damage caused by these toxins can result in conditions like autism or Alzheimer's. These health issues are related to our gut bacteria because these toxins also harm the bacteria responsible for producing neurotransmitters that enable communication between nerve cells.
How Toxins Impact our Microbiome
When we examine children with autism, we observe symptoms such as seizures, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, digestive problems, and weakened immunity. These symptoms are closely linked to the nervous system and the gut, which develop in tandem during a child's growth.
Glyphosate, which is now present in most processed foods and meats due to its use in agriculture, acts as an antibiotic and can kill the bacteria necessary for neurotransmitter production. Additionally, heavy metals and PFAS (persistent environmental pollutants) found in our food and water can either kill beneficial bacteria or be stored by them, slowly poisoning the bacteria until they release the toxins upon their death. This release of toxins during detoxes, candida diets, or weight loss diets can lead to flu-like symptoms.
Antibiotics prescribed for infections not only kill harmful bacteria but also beneficial ones. For instance, research indicates that about 20% of people who take one course of antibiotics experience depression for a few months, a number that increases to about 40% with two courses [1]. This depression is often linked to the decrease in neurotransmitter production due to the loss of these bacteria. To counteract this, it's essential to take probiotics and amino acids after a course of antibiotics to replenish and nourish these bacteria.
To safeguard your gut health, it's crucial to consume organic foods, or if that's not possible, choose items from the Clean 15 list and avoid the Dirty Dozen.
Installing a reverse-osmosis filtration system for your drinking water can also help prevent these toxins from entering your body. Additionally, with our guidance at PIH, we would suggest supplements to support the restoration and sustenance of your gut bacteria.
Toxins To Avoid
To safeguard your gut health and overall well-being, it's essential to steer clear of harmful toxins such as glyphosate, found in the widely used herbicide Roundup, which can disrupt your nervous system and harm crucial gut bacteria responsible for neurotransmitter production. Additionally, be wary of heavy metals and PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," that can accumulate in your body or directly harm beneficial gut bacteria. Another toxin to avoid is Bisphenol A (BPA), commonly found in plastic containers and food packaging. BPA can leach into your food and disrupt hormonal balance, potentially affecting your gut microbiome and overall health. Furthermore, Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin (rBST), also known as recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH), is a synthetic hormone used in some dairy farming practices to increase milk production in cows.
- Glyphosate, commonly found in the herbicide Roundup, can be present in conventionally grown crops like soy, corn, and wheat, which are used in various processed foods and animal feed. To minimize glyphosate exposure, opt for organic produce and products labeled as non-GMO.
- Heavy metals can contaminate foods, especially seafood, due to environmental pollution. It's essential to choose seafood sources known for lower mercury levels and be mindful of the water supply in your area.
- PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) can be present in non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and some food packaging. To reduce exposure, consider using stainless steel or cast iron cookware and be cautious with the types of containers you use for food storage.
- Bisphenol A (BPA) is commonly found in plastic containers, canned foods, and thermal paper receipts. Opt for BPA-free plastics, choose fresh or frozen foods over canned options when possible, and minimize contact with thermal paper receipts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the impact of toxins on our microbiome and taking steps to protect and nourish it is vital for our overall health. If you haven't already, consider booking a discovery call, as it can be one of the most important steps for your well-being.
Questions? Call PIH at 609.512.1468 for more information.
