Bidirectional signaling between the brain and the gut microbiome plays a significant role in how the brain is wired. Studies have linked gut microbiota dysbiosis to brain-linked disorders such as depression, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, and autism. We are now aware that neurodegenerative diseases may not exclusively have a neurological trigger. Uncontrolled chronic inflammation, disturbances in the gut microbiota, and other gastrointestinal dysfunctions open the intestinal barrier and allow inflammatory agents to leak into the bloodstream. Some inflammatory agents can open the blood-brain barrier and are linked to autoimmune, neuroautoimmune, and neurodegenerative disorders. Building a healthier gut microbiome and restoring the gut barrier can be helpful for reducing neurodegenerative symptoms and improving neuroplasticity.
Understanding the inflammatory processes that underlie neurodegenerative diseases is key to managing them effectively. Protocols for treating neuroinflammation, including implementing a proper diet, supplementation, and mental and physical activity, along with repairing barriers to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and toxins, may slow degeneration and help recover some cognitive functions in individuals who have experienced neurological trauma or decline from epileptic seizures, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, AD, and TBI.
Key Clinical Takeaways
•Recognize that neuroplasticity plays a fluctuating but essential role in health and trauma.
•Understand the effect of bacterial toxins originating in the gut on the gut-brain axis as key to neurological disorders’ pathogenesis. •Expertly assess intestinal and blood-brain barrier dysfunction for better management of chronic neurological disorders. This course is being provided as part of the partnership between SIDECAR and NutriDyn.