6: My Top 5 Nutrients for a Sharper Brain (It Starts in Your Gut)

If you've been feeling foggy, anxious, and mentally drained by 2 PM… your brain might not be the issue. Your gut might be running the show!In this episode, I'm breaking down the gut-brain axis (the two-way communication highway between your digestive system and your brain) and why it's often the missing piece for women experiencing fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and low motivation. I'm walking you through the five nutrients I prioritize with my clients to regulate this connection, the specific foods you can start adding this week, and the signs that indicate your gut-brain axis is dysregulated before we even run labs.You'll Learn:The 6 signs your gut-brain axis is dysregulated (check 3 and it's time to take action)Why anxiety after meals is a major red flag most women overlookThe magnesium combination that calms the "wired but tired" cycleHow L-tyrosine supports the dopamine and motivation responseWhy I prioritize EPA over DHA for mood based on researchThe timing behind L-glutamine (best practices)My "secret weapon" nutrient for women in high-stress seasons Exactly how much of each gut-brain food to eat per day (pick one per category)Why circulation and detoxification matter for your brain and not just "brain foods"The honorable mention nutrients I couldn't leave off this listResources Mentioned:Brain Health Meal Plan ($9): Get it here!Best bone broth: Fond (nikkiyeltonrd for discount)Best bone broth protein (I suggest unflavored): Equip (nikkiyeltonrd for discount)My go-to Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides: Perfect CollagenBone broth hot chocolate: Try the recipeTop Gut-Brain Foods (pick one from each daily):Omega-3s: wild-caught salmon, sardines, mackerelMagnesium: pumpkin seeds, dark leafy greens, dark chocolate (70%+)Microbial diversity: sauerkraut, kimchi, kefirTyrosine + B vitamins + choline: pasture-raised eggs, turkey, grass-fed beef, liverGut lining: bone broth (1 cup/day)Circulation + detox: beets, dark leafy greensSerotonin: banana, gluten-free oats, dark chocolate🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to today's episode. I'm so grateful to be part of your health journey!🤝 🚀 Ready to show up fully in your life with energy and vitality for your people and your purpose? Work with me: Private 1-1 and Group Coaching☎️ Or Text Me 'Coach' to (844) 819-5214 & I'll send you all the details!⏺️ Have a win from the podcast, a message to share, or a question you want to ask? Submit a recording here! You just might hear it on the next episode! 💬 Let's Connect:Watch These Episodes On YouTubeSchedule a Root Cause AssessmentJoin My Weekly VIP NewsletterFollow on Instagram @nikkiyeltonrdEmail Me: [email protected] The Website & 700+ Blog PostsTopic Suggestion & Feedback FormAbout:🌿 Nikki is a board-certified functional medicine practitioner and registered dietitian specializing in gut health, hormone balance, and root-cause fatigue. She helps purpose-driven women 35+ heal leaky gut, restore metabo...