Back Clinic Gut and Intestinal Health. The health of an individual’s gut determines what nutrients are absorbed along with what toxins, allergens, and microbes are kept out. It is directly linked to the health of the whole body. Intestinal health could be defined as optimal digestion, absorption, and assimilation of food. But this is a job that depends on many other factors. More than 100 million Americans have digestive problems. Two of the top-selling drugs in America are for digestive problems, and they run in the billions. There are more than 200 over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for digestive disorders. And these can and do create additional digestive problems.
If an individual’s digestion is not working properly, the first thing is to understand what is sending the gut out-of-balance in the first place.
A low-fiber, high-sugar, processed, nutrient-poor, high-calorie diet causes all the wrong bacteria and yeast to grow in the gut and damages the delicate ecosystem in your intestines.
Overuse of medications that damage the gut or block normal digestive function, i.e., acid blockers (Prilosec, Nexium, etc.), anti-inflammatory medication (aspirin, Advil, and Aleve), antibiotics, steroids, and hormones.
Undetected gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or low-grade food allergies to foods such as dairy, eggs, or corn.
Chronic low-grade infections or gut imbalances with overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, yeast overgrowth, parasites.
Toxins like mercury and mold toxins damage the gut.
Lack of adequate digestive enzyme function from acid-blocking medications or zinc deficiency.
Stress can alter the gut’s nervous system, cause a leaky gut, and change the normal bacteria.
Visits for intestinal disorders are among the most common trips to primary care doctors. Unfortunately, most, which also includes most doctors, do not recognize or know that digestive problems wreak havoc in the entire body. This leads to allergies, arthritis, autoimmune disease, rashes, acne, chronic fatigue, mood disorders, autism, dementia, cancer, and more. Having proper gut and intestinal health is absolutely central to your health. It is connected to everything that happens in the body.
The body works by ensuring that the brain in the central nervous system and the gut in the gut system are metabolizing homeostasis and regulating the immune system for optimal functionality. With the gut-brain axis having a bi-directional partnership in relaying the information back and forth, the body can function normally without any disturbances that can harm the body. However, various factors can affect the brain, and the gut as disorders like inflammation, bacterial overgrowth, and food sensitivities can affect the intestinal walls. When gut disorders affect the body, the corresponding muscles and tissues also become affected through visceral pain. Today’s article looks at the gut microbiota’s role in the body, how visceral pain affects the gut microbiota, and how pelvic pain with abdominal bloating is associated with gut disorders. We refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in osteopathic and chiropractic treatments. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
How The Gut Microbiome Helps The Body
Have you experienced inflammatory effects located in your gut? Have you felt muscle stiffness around the pelvic region of your body? Have you experienced bloating or other abdominal issues that are affecting your body? These could be signs that could be affecting your gut microbiota. Research studies have mentioned that the gut microbiota in the body plays a vital role in influencing beneficial bacteria in the intestines while supporting the body’s homeostasis and regulating metabolism. The gut system is sustainable from environmental factors that cause dysbiosis and numerous gut disorders affecting the host’s body structure. Additional research also mentioned that when various ecological factors do affect the gut system, it can alter the gut’s composition and threaten to impose on the gut’s integrity. When the gut system begins to be involved, the rest of the body starts to be dysfunctional. Corresponding muscles, tissues, and organs will experience pain and other disorders that can make people feel like something is off with their bodies. At the same time, their gut system is being affected.
Visceral Reflexes Overview- Video
Have you felt gut disorders affecting your joints or muscles? Have you been feeling dysfunctional in your urinary tract? Or what about cardiovascular issues that seem to cause problems in your arms or legs? Many of these symptoms are caused by visceral pain where the visceral reflexes are damaged and affect the corresponding muscles in the body. The video above explains how visceral reflexes work in the body and how they send information to the brain when changes affect the connected components in the body. Research shows that when gut issues impact visceral pain, it can affect the mechanics mediating visceral nociception. Whenever gut issues move the visceral reflexes, it can cause nerve termination to the spinal cord, and gastrointestinal factors like inflammation and oxidative stress will begin to rise in the body.
Visceral Pain & The Gut Microbiome
Whenever environmental factors affect the gut microbiota, it can cause the body to become dysfunctional and correspond with the affected muscles, tissues, joints, and organs suffering from gut disorders. Research studies have found that the gastrointestinal tract receives a dual innervation from the spinal neuron and the vagus nerve. When the gastrointestinal system becomes dysfunctional and starts promoting inflammatory markers that affect the viscerosomatic nerves, these nerves can become hypersensitive. Research studies have defined visceral pain as one of the most prevalent pains associated with gut disorders. When it comes to visceral pain and the gut impacting the body, many people experience the pain coming from their internal organs and hurting their quality of life. Additional research studies have noticed that hypersensitive visceral pain can cause functional and morphological alteration in the gut and nervous systems. This will cause other disorders that become affected by gut issues caused by visceral pain.
Pelvic Pain & Abdominal Bloating Associated With Gut Disorders
Research studies have mentioned that when the viscerosomatic nerves become hypersensitive due to gut disorders, it can affect the lower gastrointestinal organs and joints like the vagal, pelvic, and splanchnic afferents. When the gut system is experiencing issues like inflammation and stress, which causes the visceral nerves to be hypersensitive, many people will begin to experience pelvic pain and abdominal bloating associated with gut disorders. For pelvic pain, research studies found that pelvic pain occurs when there are peripheral somatic neuropathies start to mimic inner organs pathology. At the same time, the visceral pathology can change the peripheral somatic nerves to cause more pain in the pelvic region in the lower abdomen. As for abdominal bloating, research studies have concluded that alterations in the viscerosomatic reflexes cause abdominal wall protrusion. This causes the gut intestinal walls to be bloated and cause discomfort to the individual, and eventually causes pelvic pain as both are associated with gut disorders affecting the viscerosomatic nerves.
Conclusion
The gut system helps the body by regulating the body’s homeostasis and metabolizing the immune system. When environmental factors affect the gut system, they can also affect the corresponding muscles, tissues, joints, and organs. This is known as visceral pain, where the viscerosomatic nerves are damaged due to gut issues like stress or inflammation that are the products of gut disorders. When alternations in the viscerosomatic nerves or the intestinal walls, it can cause dysfunction in the body, like pelvic pain and abdominal bloating that can cause discomfort to the individual. By figuring out what is causing these issues affecting the gut, the body will begin to heal itself.
References
Azpiroz, Fernando, and Juan-R Malagelada. “Abdominal Bloating.” Gastroenterology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2005, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16143143/.
Lucarini, Elena, et al. “Deepening the Mechanisms of Visceral Pain Persistence: An Evaluation of the Gut-Spinal Cord Relationship.” Cells, MDPI, 24 July 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7464824/.
Perry, C P. “Peripheral Neuropathies Causing Chronic Pelvic Pain.” The Journal of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2000, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10806280/.
Pusceddu, Matteo M, and Melanie G Gareau. “Visceral Pain: Gut Microbiota, a New Hope?” Journal of Biomedical Science, BioMed Central, 11 Oct. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6182804/.
Sikandar, Shafaq, and Anthony H Dickenson. “Visceral Pain: The Ins and Outs, the Ups and Downs.” Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3272481/.
Thursby, Elizabeth, and Nathalie Juge. “Introduction to the Human Gut Microbiota.” The Biochemical Journal, Portland Press Ltd., 16 May 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5433529/.
Vermeulen, Wim, et al. “Neuroanatomy of Lower Gastrointestinal Pain Disorders.” World Journal of Gastroenterology, Baishideng Publishing Group Co., Limited, 28 Jan. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3921524/.
One of the unique features of the body is when the gut and nervous systems have this communication partnership where information is transported back and forth throughout the entire body. The data transmitted to the brain and the gut travels through the nerve roots spread throughout the muscles, tissues, and ligaments that control the motor-sensory functions of the body. When the nerve roots become damaged or when there are gut issues affecting the organs in the gut system or even neurological disorders can cause the body to become dysfunctional and result in other matters affecting the muscles in the legs, arms, back, and neck. Today’s article looks at the functionality of the gut-brain axis, how this connection helps the body, and how disorders like inflammation and gut dysbiosis cause problems to the body and the gut-brain axis. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in gut treatments for individuals that suffer from gut dysbiosis and chronic inflammation. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
The Functionality Of The Gut-Brain Axis
Have you been experiencing inflammation in your gut? How about feeling tired constantly throughout the entire day? Do any of your joints or muscles ache or feel stiff? Many of these are signs that the gut-brain axis is affected by common factors that the body has encountered. There is evidence that the bi-directional signaling between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain is connected with the vagus nerve. Research studies have mentioned that the vagus nerve is the modulator of the gut-brain axis and is considered the primary component in the parasympathetic nervous system that is vital for maintaining homeostasis in the body. The vagus nerve helps the body by overseeing every bodily function like heart rate, digestion responses, immune responses, and sending the brain information about the state of the inner organs. The vagus nerve is also involved in the etiology of several metabolic and mental dysfunctions/disorders that the body encounters that affect the muscles and internal organs. Additional research studies have shown that the vagus nerve has anti-inflammatory properties that are activated from the HPA axis and release the hormone cortisol in the body. The macrophages in the spleen make tumor necrosis factor (TNF) a potent inflammation-producing molecule when the vagus nerve is stimulating the TNF production in the spleen, causing it to decrease. At the same time, the survival portion increases in the body.
How Does The Gut-Brain Axis Help The Body?
With the bi-directional that the gut and brain have on the body, it is evident that environmental factors like oxidative stress, inflammation, and mood disorders cause changes in the glutamatergic pathways and neurotrophins in the body. Research studies have mentioned that the gut-brain axis helps influence the autonomic nervous system by activating the immune system. When the immune system is activated, the body can generally function like muscle endurance, provide microbiota-derived SCFAs to the blood-brain barrier, and regulate the body’s homeostasis. When the gut-brain axis starts to become dysfunctional, the immune system will begin to increase its production of cortisol which can cause muscle stiffness and spasms to affect the body. When there is inflammation in the gut system, it can cause the muscles in the body to become weak, and it can affect the spine causing low back pain issues to develop over time. Whenever the gut-brain axis is affected by environmental factors, the body will begin to start causing trouble with these symptoms and making the individual miserable.
The Microbiome Being Affected By Inflammation-Video
Are you experiencing muscle stiffness or weakness in your lower back, neck, or other body parts? Have you experienced mood swings or felt anxious constantly? Many of these symptoms you are experiencing are dysfunctional gut-brain axis affecting your body. The video above explained what happens when the gut microbiome is affected by inflammatory factors causing gut dysbiosis and neurological disorders. Research studies have mentioned that the composition between the gut and the brain as they communicate helps shape the body. When a person starts changing their dietary habits and lifestyle, their gut composition will not only be affected, but their nervous system begins to change too. Unwanted factors can cause many disturbances in the body and, if not treated right away, can develop into chronic issues that affect the joints, muscles, and tissues.
Inflammation And Gut-Brain Dysbiosis
When the gut-brain system is affected by unwanted factors, various symptoms will begin to rise in the body and start wreaking havoc on specific organs, tissues, muscles, and joints that need the gut-brain axis to keep the body functioning. Not only can inflammation cause these unwanted factors, but gut dysbiosis can also affect the T-cells in the immune system. Research studies have mentioned that when inflammatory markers start to translocate harmful bacteria across the gut-epithelial barrier to the blood-brain barrier, it can contribute to multiple sclerosis on the spine. Additional research studies have found that a stroke-induced gut dysfunction in the body allows the commensal bacteria to infect the peripheral tissue, causing infections like pneumonia and urinary tract infections. When individuals start to figure out what is causing their gut-brain axis to become dysfunctional, they can begin to heal their bodies.
Conclusion
The gut and nervous systems have a special bi-directional connection known as the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis helps the body function by metabolizing the immune system and regulating homeostasis with the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system that allows every bodily function like heart rate, digestion, and immune response while sending information about the state of the inner organs to the brain. The vagus nerve also makes sure that the inner organs are functioning correctly. When unwanted environmental factors like inflammation or gut dysbiosis start to affect the gut-brain axis, it can wreak havoc on the internal organs and cause the body to become dysfunctional. When people notice that their body becomes dysfunctional, they will find treatments available to relieve these issues in their bodies and continue on their health and wellness journey.
References
Appleton, Jeremy. “The Gut-Brain Axis: Influence of Microbiota on Mood and Mental Health.” Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), InnoVision Health Media Inc., Aug. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6469458/.
Bonaz, Bruno, et al. “Vagus Nerve Stimulation at the Interface of Brain-Gut Interactions.” Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, 1 Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6671930/.
Breit, Sigrid, et al. “Vagus Nerve as Modulator of the Brain-Gut Axis in Psychiatric and Inflammatory Disorders.” Frontiers in Psychiatry, Frontiers Media S.A., 13 Mar. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5859128/.
Gwak, Min-Gyu, and Sun-Young Chang. “Gut-Brain Connection: Microbiome, Gut Barrier, and Environmental Sensors.” Immune Network, The Korean Association of Immunologists, 16 June 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8263213/.
Günther, Claudia, et al. “The Gut-Brain Axis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Current and Future Perspectives.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 18 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8396333/.
Stopińska, Katarzyna, et al. “The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis as a Key to Neuropsychiatric Disorders: A Mini Review.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 10 Oct. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8539144/.
The body has many nerves that intertwine and branch out from the spinal cord in the central nervous system. These nerves provide many functions that the body needs to work correctly, from motor function on the arms, legs, and neck to sensory functions like perceiving how much light comes into the eyes, that sense of fullness in the gut system, and when something is touching the skin. The body needs these nerves for everyday function and when a person feels pain from accidents and injuries. When there are factors that cause nerve damage or even gut issues that are internally affecting the body, it can cause many symptoms and cause a person to feel gloomy. Today’s article looks at the parasympathetic nervous system, how it affects the gut microbiota, and how autonomic neuropathy disrupts the gut system in many individuals. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in gut treatments for individuals that suffer from autonomic neuropathy. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is The Parasympathetic Nervous System?
Have you experienced gut issues affecting your body? How about feeling dizzy or faint when standing up? Does it seem difficult to adjust your eyesight from dark to light? Or have you experienced gut inflammation? These signs and symptoms are usually affected when the parasympathetic nerves are damaged and causing gut issues in the body. The parasympathetic nervous system. as research has defined it, conserves the body’s energy to be used for a later date while regulating bodily functions. These nerves help the body go into a “resting” condition that allows the body to work in a less stressful environment than the sympathetic nervous system, which drives the “fight or flight” response. The parasympathetic nerves also help with the GI tract, as additional research shows the parasympathetic nervous system helps exert excitatory and inhibitory GI control and motility in the intestines. The parasympathetic nerves and the gut microbiota are connected as they help influence the body’s homeostasis.
How Does It Affect The Gut Microbiota?
So the brain and the gut are connected to the body as they help send the information back and forth to provide the body’s homeostasis and immune function in preventing diseases. So for the parasympathetic nervous system and how it affects the gut microbiota, it’s all due to the vagus nerve that keeps the gut microbiota functioning and doing its job to support the body. Research studies have shown that the vagus nerve is the primary component of the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve helps with the bi-directional communication between the brain and the gut system by overseeing the crucial bodily functions. Some of the tasks that the parasympathetic nervous system does for the gut microbiota include:
Connect emotional and cognitive areas of the brain
An Overview On The Parasympathetic Nerves-Video
Feeling inflammatory effects inside your gut? How about feeling dizzy by just standing for a little bit? Do you have difficulty eating or have a loss of appetite? Many of these signs of parasympathetic nerves are affected, causing abnormalities in the gut microbiota. The video above explains what the parasympathetic nervous system does and how it plays its role in the entire body. The parasympathetic nervous system also has a partnership with the gut microbiota. Research studies mentioned that the interaction between the parasympathetic nervous system and the gut microbiome ensures the proper maintenance of homeostasis and cognitive functions for the body. The gut-brain axis helps promote optimal bodily function while ensuring that the motor-sensory parts are doing their jobs.
How Autonomic Neuropathy Affects The Gut System
Injuries affecting the gut microbiota and the parasympathetic nervous system can cause gut inflammation in the intestines and nerve damage to the nervous system. This is known as autonomic neuropathy, and research shows that this type of neuropathy causes body and gut issues like diabetes and gastrointestinal motility and contributes to other GI symptoms. Other research studies have found that autonomic neuropathy can alter the gut microbiota’s homeostasis regulation. When this happens, the body will start to have various symptoms affecting each organ and making them dysfunctional. The body will develop more symptoms when the gut microbiota becomes affected. These symptoms cause a decrease in vagal outflow or an increase in sympathetic activity, which will be associated with a slow decreased gastrointestinal motility.
Conclusion
The gut and nervous systems have a bi-directional communication that helps provide the body with proper immune support and metabolizing homeostasis for functionality. The nerves in the nervous system are branched out from the spinal cord and help offer many functions to the arms, organs, legs, and muscle tissues. The parasympathetic nerves in the nervous system help the body rest and digest the nutrients provided to the body. When the nerves or the gut suffer from damage, it can cause various problems that cause dysfunction to the motor-sensory functions of the body. When this happens, many individuals can find different treatments to restore body functions to the gut and the parasympathetic nerves and reduce the symptoms that come with it.
References
Breit, Sigrid, et al. “Vagus Nerve as Modulator of the Brain-Gut Axis in Psychiatric and Inflammatory Disorders.” Frontiers in Psychiatry, Frontiers Media S.A., 13 Mar. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5859128/.
Browning, Kirsteen N, and R Alberto Travagli. “Central Nervous System Control of Gastrointestinal Motility and Secretion and Modulation of Gastrointestinal Functions.” Comprehensive Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4858318/.
Kornum, Ditte S, et al. “Assessment of Gastrointestinal Autonomic Dysfunction: Present and Future Perspectives.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 31 Mar. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8037288/.
Mayer, Emeran A. “Gut Feelings: The Emerging Biology of Gut-Brain Communication.” Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 13 July 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3845678/.
Tindle, Jacob, and Prasanna Tadi. “Neuroanatomy, Parasympathetic Nervous System – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 5 Nov. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553141/.
Tougas, G. “The Autonomic Nervous System in Functional Bowel Disorders.” Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology = Journal Canadien De Gastroenterologie, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 1999, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10202203/.
The skin and the gut have a unique connection. The gut system is home to trillions of microorganisms that help metabolize the body’s homeostasis while keeping the immune system functioning for the body to be working correctly. The skin has its set of functions as well as it is the largest organ and helps protect the body from external factors from harm. When these disruptive factors start to affect either the gut or the skin, it can lead to numerous conditions that cause the body to be dysfunctional. When the gut becomes affected by these disruptive factors, it can cause gut disorders and inflammation, affecting the skin and causing disruptions. Today’s article will discuss a skin disorder known as psoriasis and how the gut-skin connection is affected by psoriasis. Referring patients to certified, skilled providers who specialize in gastroenterology treatments. We provide guidance to our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Psoriasis?
Do you have severe itching along your face and arms? Do certain foods seem to aggravate your digestive tract or skin? Or have you experienced any gut disorders that are affecting your wellbeing? Many of these symptoms are signs of inflammatory issues affecting the gut and are associated with a skin disorder known as psoriasis. Research studies have defined psoriasis as a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is an autoimmune process in which abnormal differentiation and hyper-proliferation of the epidermis occur with redness and scaling. Psoriasis affects about 2% of the general population in the world and is an autoimmune process driven by abnormally activated helper T cells. Additional studies have mentioned that psoriasis is sustained by inflammation that causes the keratinocyte proliferation to be uncontrollable and has dysfunctional differentiation. The inflammatory pathways activate psoriasis in different body locations, causing the individual to become miserable because they are itching and becoming miserable.
An Overview Of Psoriasis-Video
Do you have scaly, patchy lesions in certain areas of your body? Do you feel any gut issues affecting you constantly? Do you feel inflammatory effects disrupting your gut and skin? Many of these conditions are signs that you are experiencing gut disorders associated with a skin disorder known as psoriasis. The video above explains how the gut and skin are affected due to psoriasis and how to heal it naturally. Research studies have mentioned that when the individual is suffering from psoriasis-prone skin, it is due to the alternation of the gut microbiota. When a person scratches the area where psoriasis is formed, it might damage the skin and cause the bacteria to colonize while invoking inflammation to occur in the affected area. Additional research has found that gut disorders like IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) and psoriasis are interlinked due to the increased interaction of inflammatory receptor pathogens disrupting the body’s immune cells.
How The Gut-Skin Connection Is Affected By Psoriasis
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that help metabolize the body’s homeostasis while regulating the immune system. Since the body inhabits microorganisms in various locations, including the skin and gut, it helps maintain homeostasis. The skin helps protect the body from external factors and has bidirectional communication with the gut system. However, like with any autoimmune process, it always starts with the gut. Research studies have mentioned that psoriasis is a multifactorial chronic skin disease that infiltrates the body’s immune cells, causing an increase in skin inflammation and making a person’s life miserable. With the gut system also being inflicted by inflammatory markers, many suffering individuals will experience IBD, SIBO, and other gut disorders that can disrupt the body. Additional information has shown that changes in the microflora in the gut-skin axis from genetic or environmental factors can contribute to various diseases. But when these factors begin to cause an increase in inflammatory markers in the body, it can affect a person’s quality of life through habits that make them miserable.
Conclusion
The body needs the gut and skin to maintain homeostasis and metabolize the immune system. The gut microbiota helps transport the nutrients that the body needs and regulates the body’s immunity, while the skin protects the body from outside factors while being the largest organ. The gut and skin have a bi-directional connection that allows them to keep the body from suffering from dysbiosis. When disruptive factors affect either the gut or the skin, it can lead to many disorders and make a person’s life miserable. The skin suffers from a condition known as psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease that causes itchy, patchy lesions that can affect the areas around the body. Psoriasis is associated with gut disorders, as many factors aggravate the inflammatory markers and can be a nuisance if not treated early. Incorporating small changes that benefit both the gut and skin health can help relieve the individual from psoriasis and bring back their quality of life.
References
Chen, Lihui, et al. “Skin and Gut Microbiome in Psoriasis: Gaining Insight into the Pathophysiology of It and Finding Novel Therapeutic Strategies.” Frontiers in Microbiology, Frontiers Media S.A., 15 Dec. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7769758/.
De Francesco, Maria Antonia, and Arnaldo Caruso. “The Gut Microbiome in Psoriasis and Crohn’s Disease: Is Its Perturbation a Common Denominator for Their Pathogenesis?” Vaccines, MDPI, 5 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8877283/.
Ellis, Samantha R, et al. “The Skin and Gut Microbiome and Its Role in Common Dermatologic Conditions.” Microorganisms, MDPI, 11 Nov. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6920876/.
Nair, Pragya A, and Talel Badri. “Psoriasis.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 6 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448194/.
Olejniczak-Staruch, Irmina, et al. “Alterations of the Skin and Gut Microbiome in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 13 Apr. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8069836/.
Rendon, Adriana, and Knut Schäkel. “Psoriasis Pathogenesis and Treatment.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 23 Mar. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6471628/.
The skin is the largest organ in the body and encounters numerous factors that can either benefit or harm the body. The skin helps protect the organs and intestines in the gut system, keeps the musculoskeletal system structure functional, and even helps the nervous system send out signals for motor-sensory functions to the rest of the body. The skin is associated with the gut system as the gut microbiota host trillions of beneficial gut flora that send out nutrients to help promote tissue growth, improve the body’s immunity, and metabolize skin health by protecting it from disruptive pathogens. When these pathogens cause inflammatory issues in the gut system, it can affect the body’s skin, brain, and immune health by making them dysfunctional. Today’s article will look at a skin condition known as atopic dermatitis, how it affects the gut-skin system, and what treatments are available for relieving gut issues and atopic dermatitis in individuals. Referring patients to certified, skilled providers who specialize in gastroenterology treatments. We provide guidance to our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Atopic Dermatitis?
Have you experienced inflammation around your gut or in certain areas of your skin? Do issues like SIBO, IBD, leaky gut, or bloating become more frequent? Do certain foods trigger inflammatory markers in your skin and gut? The numerous signs and symptoms are due to a skin disorder known as atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a pruritic, hereditary skin disorder. The lifetime prevalence is 10% to 20%, with many cases starting as a baby and rising to 20% to 40% as adults continue to have atopic dermatitis. Research studies have defined atopic dermatitis as one of the most common skin diseases that cause chronic inflammation in the skin. The pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis is both complex and multifactorial. It involves the elements of barrier dysfunction, alterations in cell-mediated immune responses, IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, and environmental factors that cause flare-ups. Additional research studies have mentioned that the pathology of atopic dermatitis is being looked at as the skin’s structural abnormalities and immune dysregulation play their roles as this condition progress. Other genetic changes have also been identified, altering the skin’s barrier function, resulting in an atopic dermatitis phenotype. The imbalance of Th2 to Th1 cytokines is observed as it alters cell-mediated immune responses. Atopic dermatitis can promote IgE-mediated hypersensitivity in the skin as part of its development. This can also be due to the environmental factors that be the causing development of atopic dermatitis.
How Does It Affect The Gut-Skin Connection?
Since atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, many factors do come to play in its development. For example, food allergies cause atopic dermatitis in 25% to 50% of children. Some of the food allergens that are commonly linked to atopic dermatitis include:
Eggs
Soy
Milk
Wheat
Fish
Shellfish
Peanuts
One of the other factors that can cause the development of atopic dermatitis is gut issues. Research studies have shown that any alterations in the gut microbiome due to atopic dermatitis affect the immune system balance in the body. When the gut microbiome becomes altered, it affects metabolite production and reduces the body’s immune system. When bacteria overgrowth in the GI tract, it has been suggested as a causative factor in allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Another factor is when individuals consume trans fats, which increase the development of atopic dermatitis since they interfere with the metabolism and use of essential fatty acids.
The Microbiome Of Atopic Dermatitis-Video
Have you experienced inflammation in your digestive tract or particular areas of your skin? Does your body feel fatigued constantly? Do you have any gut issues or disorders that are affecting your health? Most of these symptoms are signs that you are experiencing atopic dermatitis caused by gut issues. Research studies have found that various factors can trigger atopic dermatitis, affect the immune system, and disrupt the gut microbiota. The video above explains the microbiome in atopic dermatitis and how it affects the gut, skin, and the entire body. Luckily there are available treatments to relieve atopic dermatitis and gut disorders from wreaking havoc on the body.
Treatments For Relieving Atopic Dermatitis & The Gut
When a person begins to find treatments for relieving atopic dermatitis usually involves:
Early diagnosis.
Skin barrier function support.
Mitigation of cutaneous inflammation.
Concomitant risk stratification
Another way that many individuals can alleviate atopic dermatitis is with a healthy GI tract. This will help many individuals suffering from a food allergy, asthma, allergic rhinitis, and environmental allergies to relieve atopic dermatitis from progressing further. A study showed that probiotics and prebiotics are essential in preventing food allergies and eczema. Probiotics and prebiotics help replenish the beneficial bacteria in the gut and regulate the immune system. This prevents atopic dermatitis from stopping progressing and restor the body back.
Conclusion
Many factors cause atopic dermatitis progression to become severe, as it is crucial to find the root cause of the flare-ups and alleviate them at the source. Overall having gut issues associated with atopic dermatitis is no laughing matter. When the gut microbiome is being affected by inflammatory disorders, it can disrupt the immune system and cause atopic dermatitis to develop on the skin. Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics can help replenish the gut bacteria and figure out what causes the inflammatory symptoms to spike up from certain foods will benefit the gut and the skin to become healthier.
References
Fang, Zhifeng, et al. “Gut Microbiota, Probiotics, and Their Interactions in Prevention and Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis: A Review.” Frontiers in Immunology, Frontiers Media S.A., 14 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8317022/.
Kapur, Sandeep, et al. “Atopic Dermatitis.” Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology : Official Journal of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, BioMed Central, 12 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6157251/.
Kim, Jung Eun, and Hei Sung Kim. “Microbiome of the Skin and Gut in Atopic Dermatitis (AD): Understanding the Pathophysiology and Finding Novel Management Strategies.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 2 Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6518061/.
Kolb, Logan, and Sarah J Ferrer-Bruker. “Atopic Dermatitis – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 13 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448071/.
Lee, So Yeon, et al. “Microbiome in the Gut-Skin Axis in Atopic Dermatitis.” Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research, The Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology; The Korean Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Disease, July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6021588/.
The body is always going through many factors that constantly test the durability that can affect the entire microbiome itself. The gut helps the body’s homeostasis by metabolizing the nutrients that provide the energy for functionality. The gut system is home to trillions of microorganisms that communicate to the brain system, endocrine system, immune system, and skin to ensure that it is healthy. When disruptive factors enter the gut system, they can cause various issues that can make the dysfunctional body while affecting its communication with the body’s axis. Today’s article focuses on a skin condition that everyone has suffered in their lives known as acne and how the gut-skin axis is being affected by acne. Referring patients to certified, skilled providers who specialize in gastroenterology treatments. We provide guidance to our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Acne Vulgaris?
Have you noticed bumps along your face, especially in the nose, forehead, and cheek regions? How about inflammatory reactions that are affecting your skin? Do issues like GERD, IBS, leaky gut, or SIBO affect your gut? Most of these issues are due to disruptive factors that affect the gut-skin connection and cause a skin condition known as acne vulgaris. Everybody suffers from acne when they are young, and it is a common condition with follicular papules or comedones and inflammatory papules and pustules. Research studies have shown that acne vulgaris is an inflammatory disorder triggered by many factors that can cause it to become aggravated and inflamed. Some of the contributing factors that can cause acne vulgaris to form due to the following:
Infection (Propionibacterium acnes)
Tissue inflammation
Plugging of hair follicles due to epidermal hyperproliferation
Hormone imbalance
Endocrine disorders
Excess sun exposure
Other research studies have shown that other factors like gut disorders can also affect the development of acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris can be associated with the emotional factors that affect the brain and the gut’s inflammatory factors as they go hand in hand. When a person becomes stressed or anxious, their skin will flare up and develop acne around some skin regions. Additional studies have mentioned that emotional factors like stress and anxiety can alter the gut microbiota and increase intestinal permeability. When gut disorders start to contribute to skin inflammation, it can aggravate acne to develop and form on the skin.
Gut Health & Acne- Video
Have you experienced gut disorders that seem to affect your quality of life? Have you noticed that particular foods you consume are not sitting well in your gut system? How about feeling overly stressed and anxious that acne forms around your face? The video above explains how the gut microbiome affects a person when making dietary changes that can provide beneficial results to the gut microbiota. Research studies have found that the intestinal microbiota is essential for forming acne lesions while being responsible for proper immunity and defense of the microorganisms. The GI tract and acne condition are closely associated because they provide the neuroendocrine and immune functions to the body.
The Gut-Skin Axis & How It Affects Acne
Since the gut is the host to trillions of bacteria, its primary job is to maintain constant communication with the skin to dampen unnecessary inflammatory markers that can cause the skin to break out. Research studies have found that the gut-skin axis, when affected by acne, produces significantly higher metabolites that generate ROS (reactive oxygen species) and induce inflammation in both the gut and skin. Additional research has shown that the gut microbiome plays an essential role in skin disorders and vice versa. When changes affect either the gut or the skin, it can drastically change a person’s outcome in life. Say, for instance, dietary habits that cause inflammation in the gut. This is due to processed foods that cause the gut to become inflamed and make the skin begin the development of acne in different portions of the skin. Research shows that the gut microbiome can vastly influence the immune system by regulating it. This builds a tolerance to dietary changes in the gut to promote acne-free skin. So incorporating a low-glycemic-load diet has been linked to improved acne, possibly through gut changes or attenuation of insulin levels.
Conclusion
Overall, the gut plays a massive role in the body in its homeostasis as it helps the body metabolize the nutrients to keep it functioning and moving. The gut microbiota also has bidirectional communication with the skin as common skin disorders like acne tend to show up. Acne is very common amongst individuals, especially in younger individuals, as it can affect their moods and cause changes to their mental health and their gut health. Incorporating small changes like eating healthy food, maintaining a stress-free environment, and even exercising can help not only lower gut inflammation but also clear up the skin from acne.
References
Bowe, Whitney P, and Alan C Logan. “Acne Vulgaris, Probiotics and the Gut-Brain-Skin Axis – Back to the Future?” Gut Pathogens, BioMed Central, 31 Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038963/.
Chilicka, Karolina, et al. “Microbiome and Probiotics in Acne Vulgaris-A Narrative Review.” Life (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 15 Mar. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8953587/.
De Pessemier, Britta, et al. “Gut-Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions.” Microorganisms, MDPI, 11 Feb. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7916842/.
Lee, Young Bok, et al. “Potential Role of the Microbiome in Acne: A Comprehensive Review.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 7 July 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6678709/.
Salem, Iman, et al. “The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis.” Frontiers in Microbiology, Frontiers Media S.A., 10 July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6048199/.
Sutaria, Amita H, et al. “Acne Vulgaris.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 8 May 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459173/.
As everyone knows, the gut helps the body metabolize nutrients and vitamins that it needs to function correctly. The gut system also allows the body’s immunity to perform while staying in communication with the brain. The gut helps sends signals back and forth to regulate the body’s hormones signals and other beneficial substances that the body requires. The gut is also in communication with the largest organ in the body, which is the skin. When intolerable factors start to wreck the gut and cause chaos inside the gut system, it disrupts the brain signals in the nervous system and can also take a toll on the skin. Today’s article will focus on a skin condition known as rosacea, how it affects the gut system, and what is the gut-skin connection. Referring patients to certified, skilled providers who specialize in gastroenterology treatments. We provide guidance to our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Rosacea?
Have you felt any gut disorders like IBS, leaky gut, or GERD affecting your mid-section? How about redness around your face, especially the nose and cheek areas? Does your skin seem to feel tender to the touch in certain areas? Most of these symptoms are related to a chronic inflammatory disease known as rosacea. It is usually indicated by genetic and environmental components that can trigger rosacea initiation on the skin. Rosacea is generally aggravated by dysregulation of the body’s innate and adaptive immune system. Research studies have mentioned that rosacea is usually developed by lymphatic dilation and blood vessels exposed to extreme temperatures, spices, or alcohol which causes rosacea to affect the cheeks and nose. Not only that, but genetics, immune reaction, microorganisms, and environmental factors lead to various mediators such as keratinocytes, endothelial cells, mast cells, macrophages, T helper type 1 (TH1), and TH17 cells.
How Does It Affect The Gut System?
Since rosacea is developed through exposure to high temperatures, spices, or alcohol, research studies have shown that particular food and drinks cause the inflammatory cytokines to become triggered in the face. Additionally, many trigger factors can directly communicate to the cutaneous nervous system; neurovascular and neuro-immune active neuropeptides are lead to the manifestation of rosacea lesions. Some of the other triggers that can cause rosacea to develop is an unhealthy gut system. A study showed that more than 50% had low stomach acid among patients who had both rosacea and dyspepsia. The bacteria H.pylori resides in the stomach and has been recognized to trigger inflammation and gastrin-induced flushing, thus causing rosacea. Additional studies have mentioned that rosacea individuals will experience some gut disorders to occur. Since the gut system can succumb to various factors, it can affect the gut’s composition and trigger rosacea. Since the gut microbiota has influenced the body’s homeostasis, it can also influence the skin. When there are factors that trigger the intestinal barrier of the gut, it can affect the skin, causing the inflammatory cytokines to proceed with the development of rosacea.
Uncovering The Gut-Skin Connection-Video
Does your skin feel flushed due to extreme temperatures or consuming spicy food? Have you experienced gut disorders like SIBO, GERD, or leaky gut? Has your skin seemed to break out even more than it should? Your skin could be affected by your gut microbiota, as the video above shows what the gut-skin connection is and how they work with each other. Research studies have shown that since the gut microbiome is the key regulator of the body’s immune system, it plays a vital role in various skin disorders. This means that when environmental factors affect the gut’s microbiome, it also affects the skin through dysbiosis.
What Is The Gut-Skin Connection?
As stated earlier, the gut system is home to trillions of microorganisms that help metabolize the body’s homeostasis, including the largest organ, the skin. Research studies have found that when the gut microbial and the skin communicate with each other. It creates a bidirectional connection. The gut microbiome is also an essential mediator of inflammation in the gut and affects the skin. When there are factors like insulin resistance, imbalances in the sex hormones, gut inflammation, and microbial dysbiosis wrecking the gut system, the effects can cause the pathology of many inflammatory disorders to affect the skin. Any changes to the gut can also affect the skin as the gut consumes food to be biotransformed into nutrients that the body needs. But when food allergies and sensitivities affect the gut, the skin also gets involved, causing skin disorders like rosacea.
Conclusion
Overall the gut makes sure that the body is functioning correctly by metabolizing nutrients from consumed foods. The gut system has a connection to not only the brain and immune system but also the skin. The gut-skin connection goes hand in hand as factors that affect the gut can also affect the skin in developing skin disorders like rosacea. When a person is suffering from gut disorders, their skin is also damaged by factors like stress, food sensitivities, and skin disorders that can become a nuisance. This can be alleviated through small changes like reducing stress, eating healthy foods, and exercising, which are beneficial for relieving gut and skin disorders for individuals who want to get their health back.
De Pessemier, Britta, et al. “Gut-Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions.” Microorganisms, MDPI, 11 Feb. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7916842/.
Farshchian, Mehdi, and Steven Daveluy. “Rosacea.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 30 Dec. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557574/.
Mikkelsen, Carsten Sauer, et al. “Rosacea: A Clinical Review.” Dermatology Reports, PAGEPress Publications, Pavia, Italy, 23 June 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5134688/.
Salem, Iman, et al. “The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis.” Frontiers in Microbiology, Frontiers Media S.A., 10 July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6048199/.
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