Your mental and physical health is closely related. Research has found that individuals with depression and low mood have a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and other health related issues.

Your gut houses trillions of microbes that are responsible for producing serotonin, the “happy” neurotransmitter, and gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) which is responsible for regulating anxiety. Your nervous system has 3 branches. The first branch is the sympathetic nervous system which speeds up bodily functions when there is a perceived threat or crisis. This is also known as the “flight or fight” response. The second branch is the parasympathetic nervous system which is designed to stabilize bodily functions. The final branch is the enteric nervous system. The vagus nerve sends two-way messages between your gut and brain and is a part of the enteric system. The vagus nerve helps slow down the “flight or fight” response and studies show that poor vagal signals can lead to difficulties in emotional regulation.

There is a close connection between the gut and the brain. When you are afraid you may get a funny feeling in your gut. Alternatively, if your diet is of poor quality this could affect your gut’s ability to produce serotonin.