Our gut bacteria and an absence of it or a lack of gut bacterial diversity affects mood and social behaviour. Healthy gut microbiota in early life is essential for normal neurodevelopment. These startling findings were made by Irish Scientists Ted Dinan and John Cryan, principal investigators at APC Microbiome Ireland in University College Cork. They have found “good” bacteria can secrete neurotransmitters so powerful that they rival the effects of Prozac, while “bad” bacteria can make substances that increase anxiety and depression and can influence behaviour in young and old. Candida, IBS, Eczema and Rheumatoid Arthritis are some conditions that are also linked to the health of the gut flora.
In my remedy programme I will often include a Homeopathic remedy which targets the gut in addition to the remedy that suits the overall picture.