Have You Heard of the Brain-Gut Connection?
Have You Heard of the Brain-Gut Connection?
by Nikken
The brain-gut connection is a big deal. It is revolutionizing the way doctors and scientists approach digestion, mood, health and the way we think. One way to understand it is to picture a “brain in the gut,” which is actually known as the enteric nervous system (ENS). It’s composed of more than 100 million nerve cells that line the G.I. tract running from the esophagus to the rectum.
Internationally renowned ENS specialist Dr. Jay Pasricha says, “The enteric nervous system doesn’t seem capable of thought as we know it, but it communicates back and forth with our big brain with profound results. Its main role is controlling digestion, from swallowing to the release of enzymes that break down food to the control of blood flow that helps with nutrient absorption to elimination. For decades, researchers and doctors thought that anxiety and depression contributed to gut problems, but our studies and others show that it may also be the other way around.”1
In keeping up with the latest scientific developments, Nikken has launched Kenzen® Lactoferrin 2.0™ as an integral component of Active Wellness. The lactoferrin in the formulation addresses the body’s need for iron to help hemoglobin carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. But Lactoferrin 2.0 takes the formulation up to a superior level with four organic ingredients that work to support the G.I. tract and mental health, which addresses the important brain-gut connection. Here’s how:
- Our Organic Inulin is sourced from Jerusalem Artichoke, known to be high in potassium, iron, essential amino acids and protein.2 Organic Inulin is soluble so it dissolves in the stomach and forms a gelatinous substance that helps slow digestion to allow better nutrient absorption and a slow release of sugar. This slower digestion promotes healthy blood sugar levels. Organic Inulin aids digestion by helping to increase good bacteria in the gut and stimulating the immune system.3
- Organic Rhodiola rosea has been used in China and Siberia for thousands of years to help soothe, calm and relax people who are stressed, depressed or fatigued. Research shows it to have a positive effect on cognitive health, including boosting memory and concentration.4 Research also shows this adaptogen helps speed up fat-burning cells when combined with exercise. 5
- Organic Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and is effective against nausea and exercise-induced muscle discomforts. It helps empty the stomach more quickly, which benefits people with indigestion and related issues. There is some evidence that organic Ginger enhances working memory and reaction time, helps inhibit the growth of bad oral bacteria and helps reduce LDL cholesterol and blood triglyceride levels.6
- More than 600 health benefits are attributed to Organic Turmeric, but in Lactoferrin 2.0, it works synergistically as a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps promote brain health as well as supporting the G.I. system. See “Turmeric: Hot Topic of the Year.”
1 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/healthy_aging/healthy_body/the-brain-gut-connection
2 http://www.chatelaine.com/health/diet/five-health-benefits-of-jerusalem-artichokes-sunchokes/
3 https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/top-inulin-benefits#overview1
4, 5 https://www.organicfacts.net/rhodiola-rosea.html
6 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger