Exploring the Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Microbiome Influences Mental Health

Hey there, it's Dr. Russ! In this episode of the AnxietyRX Podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Christine Bishara, a total rockstar in the world of gut health. She's the author of "The Gut Revolution" and she's here to spill the tea on how your gut is totally connected to your mental health. We're talking about how your gut can influence anxiety, chronic illnesses, and even childhood trauma. And the best part? We're not just throwing pills at the problem. Dr. Bishara's all about addressing the root causes, from your diet to neurotransmitters. Get ready for practical tips on what to eat, what supplements to take, and why a holistic approach is key. This episode is a game-changer, folks. Let's dive in! Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions. PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 4000+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX ______________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 01:06 - The Gut as a Root Cause 02:03 - Alcohol's Impact on Gut Health 03:45 - Social Connections and Health 04:59 - Anxiety and Childhood Trauma 05:35 - Neuroplasticity and Negative Thinking 06:56 - Improving Gut Health 10:02 - Role of Neurotransmitters 12:11 - Supplements vs. Diet 12:35 - Probiotics and Gut Health 13:18 - Fermented Food 14:02 - Vitamin D and Health 17:10 - Gluten and Gut Health 20:30 - Diet's Impact on Anxiety 21:23 - Food Tolerance and Anxiety 22:09 - The Body's Survival Mechanism 22:25 - Cravings and Neurotransmitters 23:27 - Gut-Brain Questionnaire 24:16 - Genetically Modified Foods 25:13 - Adverse Childhood Experiences 26:31 - Impact of Trauma on Gut Health 27:36 - Repetition Compulsion in Relationships 28:29- Mind-Body Connection in Healin 29:19 - Diet and Trauma Responses 30:16 - Vagus Nerve and Anxiety 30:31 - Spirituality and Gratitude 31:19 - Connection and Self-Care 32:15 - Comfort Foods and Childhood Patterns 34:47 - Diet as Self-Care 35:25 - Familiarity and Security in Relationships 36:46 - Food Choices Reflecting Childhood 40:15 - Motivation for Dietary Change 41:38 - Inositol Recommendations 45:57 - Dietary Supplements for Anxiety 46:36 - Ozempic and Weight Management 54:04 - Intermittent Fasting Benefits 01:01:17 - Building a Positive Mindset