3d render Bacteria blue closeup (depth of field. From Human Microbiome Project, NIH.gov)
Dr. Porter presented the Keynote Address – Awakening your Inner Pharmacy: Changing Mental Health Naturally – to the Maryland Psychological Association Integrative Health Conference June 9, 2017.
Below is a summary of Dr. Porter’s keynote and links to her full article and slides.
Effects of the Gut Microbiome on Mental Health
There is a growing body of evidence to support epigenetics and the effect our environment, food choices, nutrient deficiencies and thoughts have on our health and well being. It is well established that the Gut-Brain Axis (GBA) and Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) have an affect on mental health. We will explore the pathways and their role in Anxiety, Depression and ADHD. Once we know these influences, we will explore the effects of diet, lifestyle, nutrients and botanical medicines on the above mentioned mental health issues.
Healthier Gut Means Better Mood
The keynote is designed to help you:
Understand the importance of a healthy gastrointestinal system and the role bacteria plays in our sense of well-being;
Review and understand the effects of stress on mental health and how our inner pharmacy can help;
Learn naturopathic insights and tools to balance the GBA and HPA axis in relation to mental health.
Read Dr. Porter’s article on the Gut Microbiome and Mental Health HERE
Check out the latest research and programs NIH is doing on the microbiome and its effect on health – LINK