How to Optimize Your Brain-Body Function & Health | Episode 30
Main Takeaways
Interoception is the ability to sense what is happening in our bodies, and it is essential for optimal performance and health.
The Vagus nerve is a two-way system in our body that connects all our organs to our brain and our brain to all our organs, and it plays a vital role in interoception.
The mechanical and chemical sensing of every organ in our body sends signals to the brain for adjustment.
Adjusting the mechanics of breathing can control mood by emphasizing exhales through physiological sighs, inhaling longer than exhaling, or using box breathing.
Carbon dioxide levels in the body affect breathing, and controlling your breathing can affect your brain chemistry and promote alertness.
The digestive system communicates the mechanical and chemical status of the gut to the brain to adjust hunger and fullness.
The nutrient profile of food, including omega-3s and amino acids, can curb sugar cravings.
Maintaining proper gut chemistry is important for a healthy brain and well-functioning body.
Breathing through the nose can increase the microbiome in the nose and affect cytokine levels in the body that promote or reduce inflammation.
Ingesting certain foods can adjust the microbiome, but high fiber diets may reduce the diversity of the gut microbiome.
