68. The Mind-Gut Connection: Understanding How It Impacts Your Mood with Kerri Axelrod

Did you know our gut is often referred to as our "second brain"? This fascinating connection between our gut and brain is not just a physical one, but also a chemical and emotional one. In fact, research shows trillions of microorganisms living in our gut can communicate directly with our brain, influencing everything from our mood and mental health to our digestion and immune system. ‌ My conversation with Kerri Axelrod is all about the gut-brain axis and myriad ways it might impact mental well-being. Kerri is a functional medicine nutritionist, founder of Kerri Axelrod Wellness, and a nationally recognized expert in a holistic, integrative approach to gut health, women's health and mental well-being. In her work with clients, Kerri uses nutritional science and the integrative modalities of functional medicine, Ayurveda, yoga and meditation. She works 1:1 with clients and is the creator of The Anxiety Blueprint, a group program that helps women get to the root of their gut issues and mood symptoms. She has been featured in national publications such as PureWow, Real Simple, Byrdie, Reader's Digest, Prevention Magazine, and Well + Good. ‌ Kerri and I would love to know what you took away from today's episode - any aha moments? Drop us a line on Instagram and be sure to tag us - @‌KerriAxelrod and @‌Whitneywoman!   Here's what to look forward to in today's episode   The three different ways our gut and brain are connected What are some traditional and non-traditional symptoms to look for that indicate your gut is not healthy Symptoms may present the same in people, but all root causes are individual Foundational suggestions to help improve gut health How Kerri uses supplements in her practice The most effective time to use probiotics Learning how to listen to your body Where the research is trending in relation to gut health and mental health What is one question women could benefit from asking themselves more? Is what I'm currently doing serving me? ‌ Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Season to Shift Mastermind l Electric Ideas Podcast ‌ Connect with Kerri: Instagram l Website l Private Practice l The Anxiety Blueprint