The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve. Its function is the main pathway that transmits seven times more information from the gut to the brain (possibly more), than from the brain to the gut. It aligns with the parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract and can aid, when in a healed, balanced state, in significant reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms. There is considerable evidence to date that indicates that when we have a healthy gut biome, the probiotic bacteria aid in the release of neural connections that can modulate our brain chemistry. For example, high levels of serotonin in our gut affect your brain chemistry.
Before you can fully receive the beneficial messages you crave, you must first look to the connection between your mouth and your digestive system. being mindful about what you are ingesting is just as important as how it travels through your body, beginning with your mouth, then through your stomach and intestines for processing and lastly to elimination. This one, long tube is colonised with all different microbes contains both good and bad bacteria. The key is to control the unwanted bacterium by colonising the gut with the healthier, potent strains to over-grow the undesirable bacteria, therefore benefiting your thinking process and mental state.
It all begins with a healthy oral biome, gums and teeth. Gingivitis, rotting teeth or halitosis (bad breath) are the first indication that gut health is not ideal. All of the correct fermentation, prebiotics, probiotics and flora in the gut will not continue to thrive if the beginning of your food journey is in distress. It is, therefore, my own opinion that oral health should be a priority for everyone. Not only should dentistry be free or funded, but should be available no matter what your age or financial situation. That’s my two cents.
Julie's Toothpaste Recipe
¼ cup white clay
½ cup baking soda
20 drops peppermint essential oil
½ tsp cinnamon - ground
½ tsp cloves ground
¼ tsp sea salt
1 tsp of activated carbon (optional)
I make this delicious toothpaste and store it in a large jar, then put into individual pots for each person. Either put your toothbrush into the jar or put some powder into the palm of your hand, add a few drops of water and mix with the end of your brush, into a paste.
Next.. What you eat your food off, matters.