I never knew gut bacteria could be so valiant in defending off germs!
Recently, I watched the online video, animated by Benjamin Arthur for NPR, about gut bacteria. My favorite scene showed the “good” microbe spewing out its own antibiotics as it took on the “evil” microbes. Who knew microbes made their own antibiotics? Check out NPR.org and learn all about the human microbiome. Along with the video, there is an article worth checking out, “Gut Bacteria Might Guide The Workings Of Our Minds,” by Rob Stein written on November 18, 2013. Science is in the early stages of researching how our gut bacteria may help solve neurological problems.
Here’s a couple other articles on probiotics and brain health to check out:
- Chris Kessler’s July 4, 2011 podcast and transcript Episode 13- Dr. Emily Deans on Nutrition and Mental Health. I read the part specifically under the sub-heading, “Can nutritional changes effect depression?”, and probiotics may be one piece of the puzzle in treating depression.
- From the excerpts I’ve read of Julie Matthews’ Nourishing Hope book and blog, she seems to be a big proponent of probiotics and that it can benefit those with ADHD, autism, and other neurological conditions. Her July 16, 2013 post, “Probiotics Affect Brain Function: Research Study” is an interesting read.
If I had a lot of time, I’d love to read all articles published by Glenn R. Gibson, a leading expert on prebiotics. Prebiotics are the food our microbes eat.
The geek in me would like a copy of Handbook of Prebiotics, edited by Glenn R. Gibson and Marcel Roberfroid, for Christmas, but I’d also settle for some dark chocolate and wine (since they are considered prebiotic, of course!).
Here’s to feeding those microbes and keeping your brain happy and healthy!
Tina Davidson 