Ep 87: What Came First—Your Anxiety or Your Gut Issues? Understanding the Gut–Brain Connection

Have you ever thought, what came first…my anxiety or my gut issues? The answer is probably a little bit of both.   In this re-aired episode of The Nutrient Dense Podcast, I'm diving deep into the gut-brain connection and the bidirectional relationship between your nervous system, digestive function, gut microbiome, and mental health.    The gut and brain are intricately connected via the gut-brain axis. We'll talk about how stress impacts your gut function, and how your gut health can exacerbate anxiety.    The discussion covers the role of neurotransmitters produced in the gut, the influence of histamine on anxiety, and the importance of addressing both gut and mental health conditions for holistic healing.   If you've been told your digestive symptoms are "just anxiety," this conversation will help you understand why the answer is often much more nuanced—and why supporting both your gut and nervous system can be such an important part of truly feeling better.             WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: The gut and brain are intricately connected via the gut-brain axis. Certain gut bacteria can increase stress hormone levels. 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. Over time, stress can contribute to real physiological gut imbalances—not simply temporary digestive symptoms. Gut health is crucial for reducing anxiety levels. Your gut microbes play a role in neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, and relaxation. Long-term improvement often means supporting both the nervous system and the gut, rather than asking which one came first.             LINKS: Save your seat for my FREE 3 Phase Good Gut Formula Masterclass! Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 1 - How Trauma Impacts Gut and Hormone Health Listen to Episode 14 - Chronically Stressed & Exhausted? Navigating Burnout & "Adrenal Fatigue" Listen to Episode 30 - Is Your Gut Causing High Cortisol? The Gut x Cortisol Connection Listen to Episode 70 - Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones?                         CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram  |   Website                   If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨