October has felt like the longest month ever. It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions, from the Achieve Conference to being sick for over 3 weeks. My mental health is not the best. When I developed a sinus infection, I was prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics have their place, but did you know that even a single round can alter your gut flora permanently?

I had to cut my antibiotic course short because it triggered a flare-up of my ulcerative colitis (UC).And I found myself becoming unusually agitated, irritable, and even slipping into a state of depression. Initially, I thought it was because I was sick and trying to recover or something was lingering.

But what I had overlooked was the critical role that my gut health plays in my immunity and mental health. Over the past month, I had neglected my gut’s needs, and my body was paying the price. Stress and a weakened immune system had taken a toll on my adrenal glands, and my body doesn’t have the energy or support to get through the day. Everything is a big deal, and it takes so much energy for very small tasks.

It’s remarkably easy to fall into these patterns and think there is something wrong with yourself rather than looking at the whole picture—I’m not depressed; my body is STRESSED. I should have known with Ulcerative Colitis that sickness alone I need to support my gut as much as I can and even more so with antibiotics. I just wasn’t in the mood to. Instead, I worked and laid in bed all day, doom scrolled on my phone, and couldn’t wait to go to sleep. Literally depressed, but I’m not depressed.

Antibiotics, while essential in treating infections, are ruthless in their approach. They wipe out not only the harmful bacteria but also the beneficial ones that inhabit our digestive tract. This disruption can have long-lasting effects on our gut health. Studies have shown that even a single course of antibiotics can significantly alter the composition of our gut microbiome, potentially leading to dysbiosis—a condition characterized by an imbalance in the microbial community. Such imbalances have been linked to a range of health issues, including gastrointestinal problems, compromised immune function, and  even mood disorders like anxiety and depression. The science behind this phenomenon lies in the intricate interplay between the gut microbiome and the production of neurotransmitters. Disruption in this balance can impact the gut-brain axis, potentially influencing our emotional well-being. [1] [2]

I think this is so important to share and talk about because so many struggle from depression and anxiety, and we forget that sometimes it’s just our body screaming for help. We think we are the problem and create cycles when really our inner alarm system is going off, telling us something isn’t right and to pay attention to it.

There is an amazing interview that Lewis Howes did with John Delny that describes our inner alarm system and how we can work with it and not against it. You can watch the interview HERE on YouTube. I truly can’t recommend this enough. 

The Gut-Brain Connection

Yesterday, I made a firm decision to reclaim control. If there’s one thing I can do for myself, it’s taking charge of my gut health. I’ve started by reintroducing supplements into my routine to help rebalance my system. Rebuilding after antibiotics and sickness is hard—rebuilding with Ulcerative Colitis is a little bit of a journey. I don’t expect to instantly feel better overnight, but it doesn’t have to take weeks or months either. Every day is progress, and even a little at a time, you will start to notice a change.

I am targeting right now:

• Poor Appetite
• No Energy
• Anxious and Depressive Thoughts
• Lack of interest
• Dissociation
• Lack of focus

It’s weird to talk about out loud and admit struggles, but it’s also important that we remember sometimes it’s our body’s alarm system letting us know there is a fire somewhere in our house (body) and it needs attention now.

Right now, that alarm is going off in my gut.

Did you know that the gut houses an intricate network of neurons, often referred to as the “second brain” or the enteric nervous system? This gut-brain axis is a two-way communication highway, where signals from our gut can influence our mood, emotions, and even cognitive function. The gut produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, often dubbed the “feel-good” hormone, and GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with relaxation. Moreover, the gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome, which plays a pivotal role in regulating our emotional state and mental health. Studies have linked imbalances in the gut microbiome to conditions like anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative diseases.

SUPPLEMENTS TO HELP YOUR GUT

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before making any changes to your health and lifestyle.

Here is what I am taking as phase 1 to start rebalancing my gut. I am going to start working with a Root Cause doctor to do exactly what my body needs, so this right now is a rebalancing regime that I know my body will respond well to. This will not fix the antibiotic use or cure the root cause but it is the stepping stone to feeling better, increasing my energy, regaining focus, and getting my gut to a new foundation and continue to build it up.

ARMRA Colostrum™ Premium Powder: This grass-fed colostrum is a potent source of over 400 bioactive nutrients. It supports immunity, digestion, brain health, skin, hair, and more. 

Ultima Replenisher Hydration Electrolyte Powder: Proper hydration is crucial for gut health. This sugar-free electrolyte powder contains essential minerals and is naturally sweetened, making it perfect for staying hydrated without unnecessary calories.

Nuvita CBD: Helps decrease inflammation, detox, and restore your gut’s balance. Also aids in helpin anxiety and depression.

Earthley Wellness Gut Health Oil: This oil helps restore your gut’s balance, which can have a positive impact on various bodily functions, including your skin.

Seeking Health Ox Bile: For those with gallbladder issues, this digestive enzyme supplement can provide support. It aids in the digestion of dietary fats and nutrient absorption.

Seeking Health Active B12 with L-5-MTHF: This supplement supports healthy energy levels and mood by providing methylated nutrients. It’s especially beneficial for those with MTHFR gene mutations.

Seeking Health Histamine Digest: For individuals with histamine intolerance, this digestive enzyme supplement can help manage symptoms and allow you to enjoy a wider range of foods.

Seeking Health Liver Nutrients: Supporting your liver is crucial for overall health. This blend of nutrients aids in liver detoxification and supports essential processes.

Mixhers HerGreens Daily Greens: HerGreens is an easy, effective way to get your daily greens. Just one stick includes 14 variations of greens! HerGreens nourishes your body with the crucial vitamins and minerals that come from vegetables, while supporting healthy kidney, heart, and liver function*. Oh, and it tastes amazing.

All of these supplements are MTHFR and PCOS safe, making them a great choice to not only rebuild your gut but manage and support your MTHFR Gene and PCOS. I do earn a small commission if you shop my links on Amazon. If you are purchasing on Amazon, please use the exact link provided as this is the ONLY true and trusted source. You can also shop on their websites directly, but I did link the real store of each supplement.

Remember, it’s essential to listen to your body and give it the love and care it deserves. Your gut may hold the key to unlocking your true potential.

Let’s embark on this journey together, nurturing our gut health, and reaping the rewards of a happier, healthier life. This winter season, make a commitment to love your gut. Follow along on @pickingdaisiesblog on Instagram, and make sure to shoot me a DM saying hi!

We got this!

XOXO, Mariah

SOURCES: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connection [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5641835/ [2]

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