Have you ever heard of the “germ theory”? The last hundred plus years our medical system has centered on the idea that we are sterile beings invaded by bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes. And that we must attack, destroy, or cut and burn out these evil germs. However over the last 30 or so years, science has proven that this could not be further from the truth!

During the course of the human genome project launched in 1990 (with final completion just last January), we learned we are about 30 trillion human cells and 37-39 trillion bacterial cells. These non human cells make up our microbiome and with the brain (via the nervous system, immune system and other pathways) signal the body processes and create our physical/mental health.

Sooooo, how do we co-exist with these bacteria?

Creating a diverse and healthy microbiome for a broad range of signaling is crucial for good health. Taking a probiotic in a capsule is only one way of doing this. Did you know that your lifestyle is a major player in the creation of your microbiome?

Enter the “terrain theory”. Do your lifestyle choices create an environment, or terrain, for healthy bacteria to flourish, signaling bidirectionally with your brain for healing in the body to be turned on? Or do your choices create an overabundance of bad bacteria (which serve a purpose if in balance with the good) signaling with the brain to create physical/mental disease?

This communication between the gut and the brain is called the Gut-Brain Axis. This mechanism God created us with is the healing hardwiring, our body’s engine, or even our “physician within” if we choose a healing lifestyle!

Click on this YouTube link to view a short video that gives a fun overview of the Gut-Brain Axis!