Hormones and Metabolism: How Are They Connected?

If you are struggling to manage your weight, hormones might be the underlying cause. Hormonal fluctuations impact how we process and store the food we eat. An imbalance can disrupt metabolic function, worsening health conditions such as thyroid disorders, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

This article explains the connection between hormones and metabolism and offers practical tips to restore hormonal balance and enhance metabolic function.

Hormones and metabolism

Can Hormones Affect Your Metabolism?

Hormones work together to optimize fat storage, energy efficiency, blood sugar levels, and other vital bodily functions. A hormonal imbalance can disrupt metabolic processes, causing an autoimmune disease, weight loss or weight gain, and mental health issues.  

How Do Hormones Affect Metabolism?

Hormones play a crucial role in metabolic and overall health by regulating various bodily functions, including the following:

Which Hormone Is Responsible for Metabolism?

There is no one hormone that is responsible for metabolism. These chemical messengers interact in a complex system that regulates how the body stores and distributes fat and breaks down nutrients to generate energy efficiently. Each hormone has a specific role and directly influences the function of others, which can lead to imbalances and disrupt metabolism.

Leptin

Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that tells our brain how much fat is stored. It regulates appetite, metabolism, and weight balance by curbing hunger based on body fat levels.

Elevated leptin regulates metabolism by promoting calorie expenditure and preventing overeating, while lower levels increase appetite and slow down metabolism. Obesity and chronic inflammation can cause leptin resistance, characterized by disrupted hunger signals and increased appetite despite adequate fat stores.

Ghrelin

Ghrelin is a stomach-produced “hunger hormone” that tells the brain when your stomach is empty. It rises before meals to increase appetite and drops after eating to promote fullness.

Skipping a meal triggers ghrelin spikes that can lead to overeating and weight gain. Additionally, what you eat impacts ghrelin levels, with carbohydrates lowering it quickly and protein keeping it suppressed longer. You can prolong satiety and stabilize hunger signals by combining carbs and protein.

Amylin

Amylin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps regulate blood sugar levels by decreasing food intake. It prevents rapid blood sugar spikes and keeps you full longer.

Studies have confirmed its weight-reducing effects and a positive impact on insulin sensitivity and leptin resistance. The synthetic amylin analog pramlintide is an approved diabetes treatment that improves blood sugar control and aids weight loss.

Insulin

Insulin regulates blood sugar levels and how effectively the body processes glucose (blood sugar). This pancreatic hormone transports glucose into the blood cells to make energy. It supports healthy metabolic processes by stabilizing blood sugar levels and signaling to the pancreas to adjust insulin production.

Hyperinsulinemia (higher insulin levels) disrupts the body's response to the hormone, leading to metabolic dysfunction, insulin resistance, diabetes, and chronic inflammation.

Hyperinsulinemia (low insulin levels) elevates blood sugar levels, resulting in tiredness, shaking, heart palpitations, dizziness, hunger, blurred vision, and weight loss.


Note: Learn how insulin affects weight loss and ways to preserve its function.


Glucagon

Glucagon is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that prevents blood sugar from dropping too low. It stabilizes glucose levels by stimulating the liver to release stored sugar (glycogen), suppressing your appetite between meals.

It promotes fat breakdown for energy during intense exercise or fasting and helps the body obtain glucose from other sources, such as amino acids. Because of its positive impact on metabolism, glucagon is used as a weight-loss treatment in combination with GLP1.

Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 (GLP1)

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1) is a fullness hormone produced in the gut that responds to food intake by signaling to the brain that you have eaten enough. This “nutrient sensing” chemical promotes satiety, slows gastric emptying, and decreases blood sugar levels after eating.

GLP1 agonists are an effective weight-management drug used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by promoting a sense of fullness and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Gastro Inhibitory Peptide (GIP)

Gastro inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) is another “nutrient sensing” fullness hormone that stimulates insulin secretion, optimizes glucose levels, and regulates nutrient balance. It positively impacts cardiovascular function, bone health, and lipid metabolism (the breakdown of fats for energy).

Recent research indicates that GIP may influence fertility, particularly in women with PCOS, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for reproductive disorders. It can be used to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes in combination with GLP1.

Thyroid

The thyroid gland produces triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which regulate essential metabolic functions like energy use, heart rate, growth, body temperature, and digestion. These hormones determine metabolic speed, affecting how the body converts food into energy.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) speeds up metabolism and may cause weight loss, increased appetite, excessive sweating, insomnia, and anxiety.

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) slows down metabolism and may lead to weight gain, fatigue, cold intolerance, dry skin, and depression.


Note: Read more about the connection between thyroid and metabolism.


Vibrant Thyroid Support

Cortisol

Cortisol, the “stress hormone, is produced by the adrenal glands in response to a perceived threat. It triggers the “fight or flight” mechanism and prepares the body to sustain a stressful situation. It also helps convert glucose into energy by stimulating the pancreas to decrease insulin and increase glucagon.

While cortisol is vital for short-term stress response, chronically high levels can disrupt metabolism, leading to increased appetite, weight gain (e.g., belly fat), poor sleep, and mental health issues.


Note: Learn how to lower cortisol naturally and improve metabolic health.


How to Balance Hormones That Affect Metabolism?

You can restore hormonal balance and enhance metabolism through lifestyle choices, supplements, medication, or hormone therapies.

Adjust Your Diet

Hormonal fluctuations are often a symptom of a poor diet composed of simple carbs, additives, and trans fats. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help boost your immunity, reduce inflammation, and strengthen hormonal health. Omega-3-rich anti-inflammatory foods improve insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar, and reduce metabolic disorder risks.

You can also try a metabolic diet consisting of different eating practices that increase metabolic flexibility, reduce cravings, and enhance overall metabolic health.


Note: Find out how eating celery and rice can help you lose weight.


Use Hormone-Balancing Supplements

Hormone-balancing vitamins and minerals prevent nutrient deficiencies that could disrupt metabolic processes, including digestion, insulin and leptin sensitivity, fat distribution, and thyroid function. Complement them with a nutrient-rich diet to maximize the benefits.

These are the essential nutrients that will help you maintain hormonal and metabolic balance:


Note: You can purchase Vibrant MG, Vibrant Omegas, and Vibrant D in our online shop.


Try Vitamin IV Therapy

IV (intravenous) therapy is a fast way to obtain essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to bolster immunity, prevent deficiencies, and boost metabolism. It is administered intravenously, and its biggest advantage over oral administration is that it bypasses the digestive system, delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream for more effective absorption.

Vitamin B12 injections boost energy and improve metabolic function by aiding the conversion of food into energy. A deficiency slows metabolism, causing fatigue and hormonal disruption.

Vitamin D injections promote gut flora and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms associated with a disrupted microbiome. When paired with calcium, vitamin D supports insulin secretion, enhancing glycemic control in diabetic or overweight patients.

Use Metabolism-Boosting Supplements

Metabolism-boosting supplements help to diversify beneficial gut bacteria and restore microbial balance while supporting hormonal and metabolic health. They stimulate metabolic rate, increase calorie burn, and provide more energy.

Vibrant Vitality Clinic experts recommend Vibrant DIM for hormonal balance and optimal estrogen metabolism and Vibrant DHEA for balanced hormones, healthy immune function, and optimal stress response.

Support Gut Health

Hormones are intricately linked to gut health, affecting both food digestion and nutrient absorption. Hormonal imbalances can indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue, such as dysbiosis. Enhancing gut health is a powerful way to support hormonal balance and metabolic function.

Ensure your microbiome is healthy and stress-resilient with the following supplements:

Exercise and Stay Active

Exercise and stay active for healthy metabolism and optimal hormones.

Regular exercise positively impacts hormonal health and can speed up metabolism for weight loss. Movement stimulates hormone production and circulation, supporting essential bodily functions that directly affect metabolism.

Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week. Strength (resistance) training also boosts metabolism since muscle tissue helps burn more calories at rest and increases overall energy expenditure.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress triggers excess cortisol production, keeping the body in a prolonged "fight-or-flight" state and increasing the risk of diabetes. This imbalance negatively affects the immune, endocrine, reproductive, gastrointestinal, and mental health systems.

Stress management enhances metabolic and hormonal health. Engage in relaxing, stress-relieving activities and hobbies to reduce stress and improve overall health. Try mindfulness, deep breathing, yoga, hiking, socializing, or creative outlets like art and music.


Note: Explore the connection between stress and hormones and learn effective stress management techniques.


Use Medication or a Medically Assisted Weight Loss Program

Depending on your health condition and medical record, the doctor may prescribe a medically supervised weight loss program or medication and injections, such as the following:


Note: Read about 14 best weight loss products to help you slim down.


Try Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is typically prescribed to alleviate symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. It contains estrogen, progesterone, or a combination of the two and may also contain small amounts of testosterone.

By restoring hormonal balance, BHRT can improve sleep quality, enhance digestion, and support metabolic function. Patients usually report having more energy, improved nutrient absorption, and a more efficient metabolism.

Conclusion

When you understand how to support your metabolic health while maintaining hormonal balance, you can reach your weight goals more quickly. This article provides actionable ways to promote your metabolic and hormonal health for long-term results.

Contact our weight-loss experts at Vibrant Vitality Clinic to learn more about hormonal balance and metabolism-boosting supplements.

How to Heal Leaky Gut

The intestinal lining is a vital part of our gastrointestinal tract and plays an essential role in digestion. It acts as a selective barrier, absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream and helping prevent harmful substances from passing through.

Factors like an unhealthy diet, stress, medications, and gastrointestinal disorders can compromise this barrier, causing toxins and other undesired molecules to “leak.” Increased intestinal permeability or a leaky gut is associated with various symptoms and inflammatory conditions.

This article explains how to improve gut health to help heal a leaky gut and reduce the risk of more severe health complications.

How to heal a leaky gut

What Is the Fastest Way to Heal a Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut is not a recognized medical condition. It is an informal term for symptoms that are associated with other digestive disorders, such as IBS, celiac disease, food intolerance, and more. The severity of leaky gut syndrome and how fast it heals depends on the underlying cause and how long it has been left untreated. Your healthcare provider may recommend specific therapy for the underlying condition, and it typically repairs the intestinal lining.

The general recommendation for leaky gut is to reduce inflammation and improve the gut microbiome through healthier nutrition and other lifestyle habits.

Improved Gut Microbiota

The gastrointestinal tract is filled with trillions of microorganisms that play a crucial role in regulating our bodily functions. A disbalance in the composition of gut microbiota, or gut dysbiosis, can trigger inflammation and disrupt the intestinal barrier function, leading to leaky gut.

There are several ways to promote a healthy microbiome and prevent or improve digestive problems. They include diet modification, taking gut-supporting supplements, careful use of medications, avoiding chemical toxins, reducing stress, and more.


Note: Learn more about the correlation between stress and inflammation.


Balanced Nutrition

Nutrition directly influences the composition of gut microbiota and intestinal permeability. A balanced diet is a common initial step in most treatments for digestive concerns. Doctors create individualized nutrition plans for patients with increased intestinal permeability depending on what caused it. Patients with celiac disease must strictly follow a gluten-free diet. Patients with IBS and food intolerances typically eliminate foods that trigger symptoms or follow a low FODMAP diet.

Anti-inflammatory diets for leaky gut are typically based on avoiding refined carbohydrates and saturated and trans fats and incorporating more foods with dietary fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, polyphenols, antioxidants, amino acids, and minerals.

In short, eliminating foods that trigger inflammation and increasing the intake of products that promote gut health may help rebuild the gut lining and decrease intestinal permeability.

Foods that improve gut flora and promote intestinal regeneration include the following:


Note: Learn more about the natural remedies and treatments that help reduce inflammation.


Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber is a group of compounds in plant foods that our digestive tract cannot fully digest. It is fermented by beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which produce short-chain fatty acids, inhibiting the growth of pathogens. Fiber also has anti-inflammatory properties that help protect and strengthen the intestinal lining. A diet lacking in fiber and short-chain fatty acids can increase gut permeability and allow harmful microorganisms, such as EnterococcusStaphylococcus, and Candida, to enter the bloodstream, including.

Foods rich in fiber include most fruits and vegetables, especially the following:

Glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid produced by our bodies and found in food. It is considered crucial for gut health and the integrity of intestinal cells. Research shows it improves anti-inflammatory cytokine levels and decreases the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in the gut, enhancing the immune response.

Patients with severe gastrointestinal disorders may benefit from a combination of glutamine and probiotics. Glutamine supports intestinal barrier repair, while probiotics enhance microbiome diversity, promote the growth of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, and help inhibit pathogenic microorganisms.

Good sources of glutamine include:


Note: Learn more about amino acid IV therapy and how glutamine and other amino acids can improve digestive, mental, and other bodily functions.


Polyphenols

Polyphenols are compounds present in plants that provide many health benefits, including improved nutrient absorption and digestion. They exert antioxidant effects against harmful microorganisms, reduce inflammation, and protect the GI tract from gut dysbiosis and intestinal permeability. Research has identified the following polyphenols as helpful in reducing leaky gut syndrome:

Polyphenols are found in berries, apples, green, white, and black tea, coffee, leafy greens, onions, peanuts, dark chocolate, turmeric, and more.

Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms found in foods and supplements that help maintain the homeostasis of our gut microbiota. They are a standard aid in the treatment of leaky gut syndrome. Probiotics help regulate the production of short-chain fatty acids, improve enzyme activity, and strengthen the intestinal barrier.

Some of the most studied probiotics for gut health include Lactobacillus plantarum, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus. They can be taken as dietary supplements or consumed via foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi, fermented soy products, and certain cheeses.

Prebiotics are foods that feed beneficial bacteria in our digestive tract. They are found in fiber-rich plants, including various fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, nuts, and seeds. Prebiotics modulate the inflammatory response and promote healthy microbiota. 

Dietary Supplements

Supplements for leaky gut syndrome

All the compounds found in foods that can alleviate a leaky gut and improve gastrointestinal disorders can also be taken in the form of dietary supplements. Supplements contain much higher concentrations of beneficial nutrients, accelerating their positive effects.

Apart from probiotics, prebiotics, and glutamine, gut-supporting supplements often contain vitamins A and D. Their effects on gut microbiota are indirect, but they are necessary for the intestinal barrier integrity.

Our medical professionals at Vibrant recommend the following products to improve leaky gut:

Gut Support

Gut Support is formulated with L-glutamine, zinc, aloe vera leaf, chamomile extract, quercetin, and other ingredients that provide comprehensive support for gut health. They help strengthen and protect the intestinal mucosal lining and reduce intestinal permeability.

Vibrant Digest

Vibrant Digest contains digestive enzymes like peptidase (DPPIV), amylases, pepsin, proteases, and lactase, which support the healthy digestion of macronutrients and may help with symptoms associated with leaky gut syndrome.

Vibrant Biome

Vibrant Biome contains a proprietary blend of eight potent probiotic strains, which help support healthy gut microflora and strengthen the immune system.


DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


Medical Herbs

Medical plants have been used for thousands of years for health concerns, including gut-related problems. Anectodal evidence shows they aid digestion, regulate bowel movement, and reduce uncomfortable symptoms like bloating and gas. Recent research also suggests they may help with leaky gut-related disorders.

Scientists have identified the following medical herbs as potential remedies for a leaky gut:

Improved Lifestyle Habits

There are other lifestyle factors, apart from diet, that cause inflammation and, in time, wear down the intestinal lining. They include stress, alcohol and nicotine use, medication overuse, lack of sleep, environmental toxins, and more.

The following habits may help avoid inflammation and reduce harmful bacteria, preventing leaky gut and other gastrointestinal problems.

Signs Leaky Gut Is Healing

When intestinal permeability improves, symptoms associated with leaky gut gradually decrease. Signs of healing may include:

How Long Does It Take for Leaky Gut to Heal?

The healing of leaky gut takes time and depends on the patient’s resolve to follow the prescribed diet and lifestyle modifications. The process is gradual and may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the underlying cause.

Conclusion

Leaky gut syndrome refers to gastrointestinal problems associated with increased intestinal permeability, or a dysfunctional intestinal barrier that “leaks” harmful molecules into the bloodstream. Doctors typically recommend a specific diet, gut-supporting supplements, probiotics, and various lifestyle modifications. Patients who follow the prescribed treatment experience a gradual improvement in symptoms.

Improve Nutrient Absorption: Effective Treatments and Methods

The nutrients absorbed by your intestines provide energy to your cells, stimulate tissue repair, promote cell growth, reduce inflammation, and support essential bodily functions. By understanding what affects nutrient absorption, you can maximize the nutritional value of your food, help prevent deficiencies, and support your overall health.

In this article, you will discover practical ways to improve nutrient absorption and make the most of a healthy diet.

How to improve nutrient absorption: effective treatments and methods.

How to Fix Poor Nutrient Absorption? 

Consuming nutritious food does automatically guarantee physical and emotional well-being as your body may struggle to absorb essential nutrients for various reasons (e.g., intestinal disorders, medications, digestive enzyme deficiency). Luckily, there are ways to overcome poor nutrient absorption and mitigate gastrointestinal issues. Here some essential tips:

Food Combinations

There are no “superfoods” that can magically boost nutrient absorption. While an anti-inflammatory diet is a great starting point, the key lies in strategic food pairing. Some nutrients enhance absorption, while others inhibit it. By combining foods thoughtfully, you can significantly improve both nutrient absorption and overall gut health.

Follow these practical guidelines, and you may notice a difference in just a few days.

Eat Prebiotics and Probiotics Together

You can increase the nutritional benefits of your diet by combining prebiotics (non-digestible fibers that feed good bacteria) and probiotics (beneficial strains of live bacteria).

Prebiotics are commonly found in bananas, oats, onions, barley, and flaxseeds. The best probiotic sources include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods. Together, they support digestive health, enrich gut flora, reduce intestinal inflammation, and help the body absorb more nutrients.


Note: Learn to distinguish between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, and explore how each affects your microbiome and overall health.


Combine Healthy Fats with Vegetables

Consuming healthy fats with vegetables enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), which play essential roles in bone and muscle health, vision, immune function, and circulatory system. Studies show that these vitamins are absorbed more effectively when consumed with dietary fats.

You can increase their bioavailability by adding healthy oils and fats to vegetables rich in these nutrients, such as carrots, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, collards, and broccoli. Add extra-virgin olive oil to your salads or pair vegetables with avocados, chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, coconut, full-fat yogurt, eggs, and fish.


Note: Read about the skin benefits of fatty acids and why to avoid consuming trans fats.


Boost Lycopene Absorption with Healthy Fats

Lycopene is a potent antioxidant, like beta-carotene and other fat-soluble vitamins, and is best absorbed when consumed with healthy fats like nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and eggs. It is found in tomatoes, grapefruit, asparagus, red cabbage, papaya, apricots, and watermelon. Research shows lycopene neutralizes free-radical damage and reduces metabolic disorders related to oxidative stress, including inflammation, obesity, and diabetes.

Optimize Nutrition with a Variety of Protein Sources

Eating a variety of protein sources ensures you get all the essential amino acids. Complete proteins come from animal products, while plant-based sources like nuts, legumes, and grains are incomplete and should be combined for full amino acid balance. For example, you can combine rice and beans or whole-wheat bread and peanut butter. Eating diverse proteins will enhance gut function, support muscle growth and repair, and boost overall health.


Note: Read about the benefits of amino acid IV therapy.


Pair Vitamin C with Iron

Iron found in animal products (“heme iron”) is easily absorbed, while plant-based iron (“non-heme iron”) requires a vitamin C boost for better absorption. It is best to combine vitamin C with non-heme iron in a single meal to enhance this mineral’s bioavailability. Pair vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, kiwi fruits, strawberries, and broccoli with plant-based iron sources such as beans, lentils, tofu, and spinach.

Increase Calcium Intake with Vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D keep your bones, muscles, and nerves healthy. Vitamin D also helps your body absorb calcium and is essential for getting this mineral into your bloodstream. A deficiency in vitamin D can result in a calcium deficiency, leading to weaker bones, osteoporosis, and impaired nerve signaling.

Try pairing vitamin D-rich foods like egg yolks, beef, and fatty fish with calcium-rich foods like yogurt, almonds, cheese, milk, and leafy greens. This will ensure more efficient absorption and prevent muscle wasting and bone fractures.

Our experts recommend using a dietary supplement called Vibrant D that promotes bone and arterial health and supports the immune system.

Vibrant D dietary supplement.

Combine Turmeric with Black Pepper

Turmeric adds flavor, color, and nutrition to food. It also has strong antioxidant power and can relieve arthritis symptoms and improve kidney function. Its active compound, a potent anti-inflammatory agent called curcumin, requires a small amount of black pepper to be readily absorbed.

Avoid Combining High-Calcium Foods with Iron, Zinc, and Magnesium

Calcium can interfere with the absorption of iron, zinc, and magnesium. To optimize absorption, avoid pairing high-calcium foods like dairy with foods rich in these minerals, such as meat, eggs, leafy greens, rice, and oats. This advice also applies to supplements, so do not take a calcium supplement during meals high in iron, zinc, and magnesium, such as beans, vegetables, lean meat, seafood, and mineral-fortified cereals.

Gut-Boosting Supplements

Probiotics, digestive enzymes, and other dietary supplements promote nutrient absorption, support digestion, and improve gut flora.

Consult a healthcare professional to find the most suitable gut-boosting supplements for your digestive health needs. Our experts recommend Vibrant Gut Support, a supplement that supports gastrointestinal health, boosts immune function, strengthens the intestinal lining, and helps prevent gut dysbiosis

Vibrant Gut Support supplement.

Cooking Methods

How you cook and prepare food is equally important as what you eat. Certain cooking methods help preserve the nutritional value of vegetables, while others destroy most vitamins and minerals.

Boiling vegetables reduces the availability of nutrients due to leaching (the loss of nutrients into cooking water). If you choose to boil vegetables, cover the pot to reduce cooking time, use as little water as possible to minimize nutrient loss, and repurpose the leftover water as a base for soup.

Soaking Grains, Nuts, Seeds, and Legumes

You may be eating a handful of nuts and seeds every day but not getting their full nutritional content. While grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds are rich in essential minerals like zinc, iron, magnesium, and selenium, they also contain phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that can inhibit mineral absorption.

Scientific evidence shows that soaking and sprouting can reduce phytic acid and prevent it from binding to minerals. To maximize nutrient absorption, soak legumes in warm water for a few hours before cooking, soak and dry the nuts in the oven, and opt for overnight oats when possible.

Frozen Foods

Surprisingly, frozen produce can be just as nutritious and sometimes more nutrient-packed than fresh produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are often picked before they are fully ripe to survive transport and storage, which can lead to significant nutrient loss. They are also often exposed to heat and light during transport and storage, which degrades heat-sensitive vitamins like B and C.

Frozen produce is typically picked at peak ripeness, which helps preserve its full nutrient content. Choose seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables or flash-frozen produce for maximum nutritional benefits.

Mindful Eating

Chewing breaks food into smaller pieces, making it easier to swallow and digest. Eating slowly and mindfully stimulates saliva, stomach acid, pancreatic juices, and digestive enzymes, which aid digestion and nutrient absorption. Chewing thoroughly can also alleviate digestive discomfort like bloating and ensure that all the nutrients are effectively absorbed.

Avoid distractions during meals and focus on the colors, flavors, and textures of your food. This will indirectly slow down eating and improve digestion.

Keeping the Peel

Unpeeled fruits and vegetables are highly nutritious because the outer skin contains most of the essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and digestive enzymes. For example, leaving the skin on a cucumber preserves 82% of its vitamin K, while an apple’s peel provides 52% of its fiber, 38% of its vitamin A, and 24% of its vitamin C. The skin of a baked potato also holds 88% of its total iron content.

Wash the produce thoroughly and keep the skin intact to maximize its nutritional benefits, stabilize blood sugar, and improve digestion.

Hydration

Drinking water helps your digestion run smoothly by stimulating the movement of food through the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements, softening the stool, and preventing constipation.

Spring or glacier water, rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, supports nutrient absorption. When drinking spring water, check its alkalinity to avoid interfering with digestion since consuming alkaline water with meals may neutralize stomach acid. 

Additionally, water assists with the breakdown of food, transporting nutrients across the intestinal barrier. It also helps the body flush out toxins and reduces exposure to harmful substances by speeding up stool transit through the large intestine, potentially lowering the risk of colon cancer.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can hinder nutrient absorption by impairing digestion and increasing inflammation. Prolonged mental, physical, and emotional stress can disrupt gut flora, trigger unhealthy cravings, alter appetite, and affect blood flow in the GI tract.

Prioritize your mental health with stress-relieving activities like exercise, deep breathing, journaling, meditation, and hiking. For better gastrointestinal and overall health, consider professional support. A qualified therapist will help you develop effective stress management strategies.

Checking for An Underlying Medical Condition

Nutrient absorption can be affected by various medical conditions, including malabsorption disorders, food allergy or intolerances, hormonal changes, or intestinal damage. Since about 90% of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, any damage to its lining can significantly impact this process.

Malabsorption occurs when the body cannot properly absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies, weakened immunity, and unintended weight loss. Deficiencies in micronutrients can affect skin, hair, bones, and eye health, while macronutrient deficiencies may result in muscle wasting, anemia, and overall undernutrition.

If you experience symptoms of impaired nutrient absorption, consult a healthcare professional to identify and address any underlying conditions.

Conclusion

A nutrient-dense diet can strengthen the immune system, alleviate pain, and reduce symptoms of chronic medical conditions. But understanding how to minimize nutrient loss and enhance absorption is just as important as eating healthy foods. The well-known phrase “you are what you eat” could just as fittingly be expressed as “you are what you absorb.”

Contact our Vibrant Vitality Clinic team if you have additional questions about healthy food plans, medical weight loss programs, and dietary supplements for optimal gut health.

Stress and Stomach: How Are They Related?

The stress we encounter in daily life can take a toll on our gastrointestinal health. Anxiety and worry can lead to stomach discomfort, which usually subsides once the source of stress is no longer present. However, if stress-related digestive issues are not addressed, they may result in long-term health complications.

This article explores the connection between stress and the stomach and offers tips to support a stress-resilient gut microbiome.

Stress and Stomach: How Are They Related?

Can Stress Cause Stomach Issues?

The short answer is yes. Too much stress can impact you both mentally and physically, increasing the risk of gut diseases, stomach ailments, and chronic conditions.

Stress directly affects your gastrointestinal health and often leads to “nervous stomach,” an ailment characterized by microbiome disruption, increased acidity, and a greater risk of gut disorders.

Why Does Stress Cause Stomach Issues?

Chronic stress or a single nerve-racking event can severely impact your gastrointestinal health for the following reasons:


Note: Learn about the connection between gut health and hormones.


What Does a Stressed Stomach Feel Like?

Excessive worry can produce a range of gastrointestinal problems, which usually subside once the trigger is gone. However, symptoms may become recurrent or intensify if ignored.

These are the most common stress-induced stomach issues:

Can You Prevent Stress-Related Stomach Issues?

You cannot avoid stress altogether, but you can take preventive measures to build stress resilience and restore gut health.

Follow these tips to minimize stress-related stomach issues.

How Do I Relax My Stomach from Stress?

There are effective ways to ease stomach tensions and alleviate intestinal discomfort. You can boost gut health by modifying your diet and lifestyle choices or taking gut-enhancing supplements and medication.

Learn how to reduce stress-related digestive issues and restore healthy microbial balance.

Adjust Your Diet

Dietary changes can lessen gastrointestinal issues and facilitate digestion. Here are the most impactful changes you can make:

Take Gut-Boosting Supplements

Add gut-enhancing supplements to your daily regimen if dietary changes do not resolve the problem. They can help restore gut flora balance, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. Examples include probiotics, digestive enzymes, and gut-enhancing dietary supplements.

Our experts recommend the following gut-boosting supplements:

Vibrant Gut Support

Vibrant Gut Support enhances gastrointestinal function by facilitating nutrient absorption, ensuring proper gut lining permeability while preserving its integrity. This broad-range supplement also acts as a barrier against toxins, allergens, and microbes entering the bloodstream.

Vibrant Gut Support supplement

Vibrant Redness Relief

Vibrant Redness Relief is a potent anti-inflammatory supplement that modulates the inflammatory response, stimulates lymphatic drainage, and promotes the natural clearance of proteins. It neutralizes free radical damage, minimizes oxidative stress, and supports the gut. Experts recommend it for alleviating the symptoms of leaky gut and seasonal allergies.

Vibrant Redness Relief supplement.

Vibrant Biome

Vibrant Biome contains eight immune-boosting bacterial strains formulated to support the gastrointestinal system by mimicking the microbial diversity found in cultured foods. This supplement helps to restore gut flora balance, maintain GI regularity, and reduce skin inflammation.

Vibrant Biome supplement

Vibrant Digest

Vibrant Digest promotes nutrient absorption and may lessen occasional bloating by aiding the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Taking Vibrant Digest before meals can benefit individuals who experience post-meal gas, occasional constipation, or a sense of fullness after eating small amounts of food.

Vibrant Digest supplement

Vibrant Soothe and Move

Vibrant Soothe and Move is a weight-loss supplement that helps eliminate waste and built-up toxins while increasing energy and nutrient absorption. Our medical weight loss experts recommend this natural cleanser to people who wish to jumpstart their weight loss journey by eliminating layers of colon waste, alleviating constipation, and maintaining GI regularity.

Vibrant Soothe and Move supplement

*Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Note: You can also try adding stress-relieving vitamins and supplements to alleviate tension.


Change Your Lifestyle

Adopting a healthier lifestyle can considerably improve your gut health and reduce stress-related symptoms. Here are the most effective methods to restore gut microbiome and build resilience.

Take Over-the-Counter or Prescribed Medication

Over-the-counter drugs may provide temporary relief. The most common examples are:

If the symptoms persist or start worsening, your gastroenterologist can prescribe some of the following medications:

Consider Psychotherapy

Professional counseling is beneficial if you cannot cope with stress on your own or if symptoms worsen. You may also notice sleep disruption, mood swings, and inability to focus. These are all signals that you could benefit from the help of a mental health professional. Psychotherapy can significantly lessen the intensity of daily stress, equip you with practical coping skills, and help reduce gastrointestinal problems.

How Long Do Stressed Stomach Issues Last?

Stress-related stomach issues typically resolve within a few hours and subside once the stressor is gone. However, if the discomfort persists for more than a day, it may indicate an underlying medical condition, and it is best to consult your doctor.

Are There Any Risks of Untreated Stress-Related Stomach Issues?

Untreated stress-related stomach problems may lead to serious medical complications and produce lesions in the stomach. The risk increases if you have an underlying medical condition, an autoimmune disease, or a family history of gastrointestinal disorders.

The risks include the following:

When Should You Visit a Doctor?

Seek immediate medical assistance if the symptoms do not abate or become more frequent. Warning signs include loss of appetite, vomiting, black tarry stools, nausea, and increased GI discomfort.

Symptoms like unexplained weight fluctuations, rectal bleeding, fever, ongoing nighttime diarrhea, and intense abdominal pain may indicate a more serious medical condition.


Note: As of 2023, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and major GI organizations recommend colorectal cancer screenings for average-risk adults starting at age 45. Those with a family history of colorectal or other GI cancers or conditions like IBD may need to start earlier.


Conclusion

Stomach problems are a common symptom of stress and anxiety. Identifying the cause of your gut discomfort can help mitigate symptoms and restore gut balance. You can address this by modifying your diet and lifestyle and seeking professional medical help.

Our Vibrant Vitality Clinic experts are here to assist you with any questions about improving your gut health and emotional well-being.

IBS Remedies and Treatments

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is not life-threatening, and it doesn’t physically alter the bowel tissue, but symptoms can be severe and disrupt normal daily life. The discomforts of IBS include bloating, gas, stomach pain, constipation, and diarrhea.

This article discusses IBS remedies and treatments, helping you find a treatment plan that will alleviate your specific set of symptoms.

IBS treatments

10 Best IBS Remedies

Medical professionals don’t know the exact cause of IBS, and there is no permanent cure. Current treatments focus on relieving discomfort, pain, and stool problems. Most patients are able to manage symptoms with dietary and lifestyle changes, medications, and psychotherapy.

1. Dietary Changes

Diet modification is usually a necessary step in eliminating IBS symptoms. These modifications are unique to each patient, depending on the symptoms, their severity, and which foods trigger them. Dietary changes for IBS include:

2. Drinking More Water

Water lubricates the GI tract, helping to soften the stool and prevent constipation. It also replaces lost fluids in patients with diarrhea. The recommended water intake is about eight glasses of water daily. IBS patients who consume more fiber or have diarrhea should drink even more. If you don’t like water, have unsweetened tea and non-carbonated sugar-free drinks.

3. No Alcohol

Alcohol can exacerbate IBS symptoms. In some cases, patients react only to a specific beverage, often beer. Others feel a relief in symptoms when they decrease the amount of alcohol they consume. Health professionals recommend limiting alcohol intake to 14 units spread over one week (14 units equals six pints of beer, six glasses of wine, or 12 measures of spirits). They also advise going several days without alcohol. If possible, it is best to eliminate alcohol.

4. Healthy Sleep

Disrupted sleep negatively affects the balance of hormones, neurotransmitters, and beneficial bacteria in our gut that are responsible for various health parameters. IBS patients who suffer from sleep problems report increased abdominal pain, likely due to impaired pain-inhibitory function of the nervous system. They are also more prone to mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. The link between sleep problems and abdominal pain underscores the significant connection between the gut and the brain.

Medical professionals advise the following practices for regulating sleep:

5. Regular Exercise

Regular exercise for IBS

Health experts recommend regular exercise for overall health and IBS relief. A minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly can help decrease stress, improve sleep, and support gut motility. Moderate exercise includes activities that increase heart rate, including brisk walks, jogging, cycling, swimming, aerobics, etc.


Note: Learn how exercise improves hormonal balance and overall health.


6. Managing Stress

Stress is one of the common triggers of IBS. Relaxing activities help manage stress and alleviate mild IBS symptoms. These include:

7. Counseling

Past trauma, emotional distress, and mood disorders like anxiety and depression can significantly exacerbate IBS. Patients may not be able to manage the symptoms on their own but need help from a mental health professional.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective psychological treatment for IBS patients. It focuses on revising thought and behavior patterns. Therapists also use hypnotherapy to mitigate IBS symptoms.

8. Supplements

Food is the primary source of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients necessary for optimal health. However, supplements step in when our nutrient intake is low for various reasons – nutrient malabsorption, poor diet, etc. Health professionals prescribe the following supplements to IBS patients: 

9. Medications

Doctors prescribe medications to patients with more severe IBS symptoms. The therapy depends on whether the patient has diarrhea or constipation.

Drugs for IBS patients with diarrhea include:

Drugs for IBS patients with constipation include:

Doctors prescribe pain medications like pregabalin and gabapentin for abdominal pain, cramps, and bloating.

10. Alternative Therapies

Alternative therapies for IBS

Holistic treatments like acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and aromatherapy relax the muscles, reduce stress and anxiety, soothe the nervous system, and may improve gut motility. Health professionals prescribe these treatments with other therapies and lifestyle changes as an integrative approach to managing IBS.

Can You Prevent IBS?

Medical professionals don’t know the exact cause of IBS. In most cases, it is the result of a combination of factors, such as stress, poor diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and genetics. Without a known cause, it is difficult to prevent the condition. However, healthier lifestyle habits reduce the risk of developing IBS and many other diseases. These habits include:

What Happens If You Ignore IBS?

Patients who ignore IBS symptoms may experience their worsening and a decline in their quality of life. Severe gas and bloating can make office life difficult and hinder social interactions. Pain and discomfort disrupt sleep, increase stress, and further exacerbate the symptoms.

Prolonged, untreated IBS can also lead to other health complications, such as malnutrition, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and mental issues like anxiety and depression.

When Should I See a Doctor?

If you have diarrhea, constipation, or both paired with bloating, gas, stomach pain, and discomfort for several months, you may have IBS. Seek medical help to alleviate the symptoms and reduce the risk of aggravating other conditions.

Some patients experience other, more severe problems with the common IBS symptoms. They include:

Contact your doctor immediately if you have these symptoms. They may suggest another, more serious medical condition.

Conclusion

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a common gastrointestinal condition that causes irregular stool, abdominal problems, and, sometimes, mental distress. Patients who don’t treat IBS usually experience a deterioration of symptoms. Don’t wait for this to happen. Improve your lifestyle habits and consult a trusted medical provider to help you manage your IBS.

Learn more about gut health in our blog posts on Gut Health and Hormones, Gut Dysbiosis, and Food Intolerance.

Serotonin Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments

Serotonin is an important chemical that regulates our mood and behavior. Out-of-range levels impact sleep patterns, cognitive abilities, digestion, and other bodily functions. Scientists are still trying to understand how serotonin works and what causes its fluctuations.

This article explains how serotonin deficiency may impact our health and offers practical ways to optimize levels through medication and natural treatments.

Serotonin Deficiency - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments.

What Is Serotonin Deficiency?

Serotonin is a chemical messenger that regulates various bodily functions, including mood, behavior, memory, sleep, appetite, and digestion.

Serotonin deficiency occurs when your body cannot produce enough serotonin or fails to use it efficiently, which may impact both physical and mental health. This condition affects people differently and is difficult to diagnose because optimal serotonin levels vary from person to person.

Serotonin Deficiency Symptoms

Serotonin deficiency can provoke a range of emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms. Multiple symptoms can coincide and change depending on serotonin’s fluctuating levels.

Psychological Symptoms

Insufficient serotonin may impact your emotional wellbeing and mental stability, resulting in:

Physical Symptoms

Serotonin deficiency can trigger or worsen a wide range of physical problems, such as:

New research suggests that low serotonin levels may also contribute to long COVID, while other studies show that serotonin deficiency is associated with Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease. Scientists are also exploring how low serotonin levels may impact the growth of tumors in lung cancer, melanoma, and colorectal cancer.

Serotonin Deficiency Causes

The likely causes of serotonin deficiency are still unknown. Reduced serotonin production and impaired receptor function are associated with various potential triggers, such as genetics, stress, chronic pain, nutritional deficiencies, and environmental factors.

Ongoing research indicates that the following can be contributing factors:

Further clinical research is needed to corroborate the exact causes of serotonin deficiency.

Serotonin Deficiency Test

There are no definitive diagnostic tools that show a serotonin deficiency. This complex medical issue is typically diagnosed by examining the patient’s symptoms and overall health condition.

Why Are Serotonin Deficiency Tests Unreliable?

Serotonin blood and urine levels are unreliable measurements as they do not reflect the amount of serotonin in the whole body. Serotonin can’t pass through the blood-brain barrier, meaning that blood and urine tests cannot indicate the amount of serotonin produced in the brain.

Serotonin Deficiency Treatment

Various medical and natural treatments can help boost serotonin levels and keep them in a healthy range. Depending on the symptoms, you should consult your primary healthcare provider and a psychologist. You may notice significant improvements with a combination of different strategies.

Use Prescribed Antidepressants

Antidepressant medications like selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclics (TCAs), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety triggered by low serotonin.

SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed medications for conditions thought to involve serotonin deficiency. These drugs inhibit the reabsorption of released serotonin, allowing the body to use it more efficiently. The following SSRIs can enable a more effective use of serotonin:

Discuss SSRI options with your chosen healthcare provider to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Bear in mind that antidepressants may cause side effects, do not always produce immediate results, and may not suit everyone.

Adjust Your Diet

Research has shown that high-fiber foods rich in tryptophan may increase serotonin levels and improve mood and overall health. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that stimulates the production of serotonin and can be found in:

Exercise Regularly

Studies show that physical activity can boost serotonin production and release in the brain. Thirty minutes of daily aerobic exercises are the most effective, such as the following:

Boost Immunity

Low serotonin may provoke a range of health conditions, increasing inflammation and compromising immunity. You can strengthen your immune response in the following ways:

Use Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Research indicates that herbal supplements and natural remedies may improve your serotonin levels and help treat depression. The following herbs and supplements may help regulate serotonin production:

Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially if you are taking prescribed antidepressants.

Engage in Stress-Reliving Activities

Relaxing and pleasurable activities can lower cortisol and increase serotonin levels, improving mood, behavior, and sleep.

Try Light Therapy

Studies have shown that exposure to bright light has profound serotonin-boosting effects. Sun exposure and light lamps can help the skin synthesize serotonin.

Spending 10-15 minutes in the sunshine while exercising can increase serotonin. Make sure to put on sunscreen before going outdoors to reduce the UV damage.

If you live in a cold, rainy climate or are at risk of skin cancer, you can try artificial light therapy. This treatment is practical if you don’t get enough natural sunlight or suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

While getting enough light is important, remember that digital screen light may disrupt sleep and exacerbate mood swings.

Conclusion

Serotonin has a profound effect on your mental and physical health, but its deficiency may be hard to spot. Learning how to restore serotonin to optimal levels can help alleviate symptoms and prevent potential medical complications.

Contact our friendly Vibrant Vitality Clinic team of professionals to learn more about practical ways to achieve a hormonal balance for long-term health and longevity.

What Is Serotonin and Why Is It Important?

Our body produces several chemicals that make us feel good. Serotonin is one of them. However, balanced serotonin levels are essential for other bodily systems, not just mood. The chemical is involved in digestive health, the sleep-wake cycle, appetite regulation, sexual function, body temperature regulation, wound healing, cognitive skills, and more.

This article explains what serotonin is, how it affects our overall health and behavior, and how to maintain adequate levels.

What is serotonin

What Is Serotonin?

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter – a chemical substance that sends signals from nerves to other nerves or cells. It essentially "instructs" nerve cells on how to respond to stimuli, affecting functions such as mood regulation, sleep, and appetite.

In addition to its role in the brain, serotonin acts as a hormone when produced outside the nervous system, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. About 90% of the body’s serotonin is found in the digestive system, where it helps control gut movements and can affect processes like digestion and blood clotting.

A serotonin imbalance is associated with a host of unpleasant symptoms, most commonly depression and anxiety. Because of its strong impact on mood and behavior, treatments for many psychiatric and neurological conditions rely on modulating serotonin production. Imbalances in gut serotonin can lead to digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and constipation and may indirectly influence mood and mental health through the gut-brain axis. Research also suggests links between gut serotonin levels and conditions like obesity and osteoporosis.

Where Is Serotonin Produced?

Serotonin is synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan, which enters our bodies through food. About 5% of serotonin is synthesized in the brain, where it acts as a neurotransmitter, sending signals via neurons.

About 95% of serotonin is produced in the intestine, where it acts as a hormone that aids digestion and is involved in regulating intestinal movements (peristalsis). Once released into the blood, most of serotonin is absorbed by platelets. The rest is metabolized by the liver and excreted through urine or degraded in the lungs.

What Does Serotonin Do?

Serotonin regulates various bodily activities, including:

Mood and Behavior

Serotonin receptors are located in multiple brain regions which govern our behavior. Depending on which receptors are activated and how much serotonin is transmitted, the neurotransmitter affects our feelings and expressions of anger, aggression, fear, reward processing, and almost every other behavior. Normal serotonin levels contribute to emotional stability and increase happiness.


Note: Learn more about the relationship between hormones and mental health.


Cognitive Function

Many serotonin receptors are in the brain regions that regulate cognitive processes. Scientists speculate that serotonin concentrations and transmission are linked to memory, learning, concentration, decision-making, problem-solving, spatial navigation, and other cognitive skills.

Heart Function

Serotonin is involved in several cardiac processes, from heart development to heart rate regulation. It may play a role in the development of cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and atherosclerosis. Scientists are exploring serotonin-modulating drugs as promising treatment options.

Sleep

Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, the key hormone regulating sleep. It is involved in controlling the circadian (sleep-wake) rhythms and its levels affect sleep onset and depth. An imbalance in serotonin levels can lead to difficulty falling asleep, interrupted sleep patterns, insomnia, and other sleep disorders.  

Appetite

Serotonin suppresses appetite

Serotonin suppresses appetite and regulates food intake by influencing hunger signals and energy balance. It is considered a promising aid in weight loss and obesity treatments due to its effects on satiety and metabolism.

Digestion

One of serotonin’s key functions is regulating the movement of food through the digestive system. Disrupted serotonin signaling is associated with gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic constipation, and chronic diarrhea.

Body Temperature

The activation of different serotonin receptors causes an increase or a decrease in body temperature. With other chemicals, such as adrenaline and noradrenaline, serotonin maintains a balanced thermoregulation system.

Wound Healing

When an injury occurs, platelets are activated at the injury site and release serotonin, which constricts blood vessels to limit blood flow and reduce blood loss. Serotonin also enhances the formation of blood clots to close the wound and stimulates fibroblasts – cells that produce collagen to form new tissue.

Sexual Drive

Serotonin has a complex effect on libido, depending on which receptors are activated. Studies show that high serotonin levels inhibit sex drive, while low levels are associated with increased sexual desire. That is why low libido is one of the side effects of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), anti-depressants drugs that increase serotonin levels.


Note: Learn what other hormones and factors contribute to low sex drive in men and how to treat it.


Other Functions

The list of functions modulated by serotonin is long and includes breathing, eye health, bone density, immune function, stress response, pain sensitivity, embryonic development, and more. This chemical plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis across multiple systems, influencing both physical and mental wellbeing.

How Do I Know If I Have Low Serotonin?

Low serotonin levels are typically associated with mood disorders like depression and anxiety. It can also lead to other undesirable mental and psychological states, including:

What Reduces Serotonin?

Not enough serotonin receptors or ineffective usage of serotonin by the receptors are the direct causes of low serotonin. They are affected by the following factors:

How to Check Serotonin Levels?

There is no reliable blood test that accurately evaluates overall serotonin levels. The following procedures help doctors establish if a patient has a serotonin imbalance.

How to Increase Serotonin?

If you recognize symptoms of decreased serotonin, try natural ways of enhancing it.

Regular Exercise

Exercise improves serotonin levels

Exercise is one of the best ways to boost serotonin levels because it has no side effects (like medications) and improves other health markers. Only 20-30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, such as jogging or swimming, can increase the concentrations of this feel-good hormone.

Diet Modification

Eating more foods with tryptophan, serotonin’s precursor, may help improve serotonin levels in the blood. Sources of tryptophan are salmon, eggs, nuts, seeds, dairy products, soy products, whole grains, and legumes.

Light Therapy

Exposure to sunshine or light lamps for at least 10-15 minutes daily is associated with an increase in feel-good hormones, including serotonin. Light therapy is used in countries with low amounts of natural light to treat patients with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and depression.

Stress Relief

Chronic stress can damage our health in many ways. It can lead to inflammation, hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and more severe diseases. It can also disrupt serotonin release. Engage in stress-relieving activities, such as meditation, yoga, relaxing music, and daily walks to counter the effects of elevated cortisol.


Note: Learn how to naturally lower cortisol levels and reduce the risk of stress-induced health problems.


Medications

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line treatment for moderate to severe symptoms of serotonin deficiency, such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behavior, eating disorders, etc. Prozac is one of the best-known SSRIs. These medications work by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, increasing its availability and concentration. While SSRIs are effective, they are potent medications and carry a black box warning due to the increased risk of suicidal thoughts, particularly in young people. Always take them only under a doctor's supervision and recommendation.

Other serotonin-increasing medications include serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), tricyclic anti-depressants (TCA), and 5-HT receptor agonists. These medications are often prescribed for patients who don’t respond to SSRIs or to treat conditions such as migraines (5-HT receptor agonists).

Supplements

Supplements that may promote serotonin synthesis include:

What Happens if Serotonin Levels Are Too High?

Serotonin syndrome or serotonin toxicity is a condition where patients suffer from excessive serotonin activity and associated symptoms. They include:

Serotonin syndrome can be caused by a reaction to a certain medication or taking higher doses than prescribed. It can be life-threatening if severe symptoms are not treated promptly.

How to Lower Serotonin?

If you experience serotonin toxicity, visit your doctor, or go to the ER immediately. The treatment typically involves the following:

Conclusion

Serotonin is an essential molecule that regulates nearly every behavioral and many other functions in our body. Disruptions in serotonin concentrations can lead to health problems, particularly those related to mood and mental health.

Healthy lifestyle habits are the first step in supporting healthy serotonin levels. Seek medical help if you suspect you’re suffering from a serotonin imbalance.

What Is Gut Dysbiosis and How to Treat It?

Gut dysbiosis is a condition characterized by an imbalance of microorganisms in the digestive tract, where harmful bacteria, fungi, or viruses outnumber the beneficial ones. This disruption can lead to digestive problems, weakened immunity, and increased inflammation throughout the body. If left untreated, dysbiosis can contribute to a range of health issues, from gut discomfort to chronic conditions.

In this article, we'll explore the causes and symptoms of gut dysbiosis, and provide practical steps and treatments to restore balance to your gut microbiome.

Gut dysbiosis treatment.

What Is Gut Dysbiosis?

Dysbiosis occurs when the fine balance of healthy microorganisms in the gut is disrupted, leading to reduced diversity and an overgrowth of one type of bacteria, fungus, or virus. A healthy microbiome is made up of diverse communities of these microorganisms and balanced bacterial colonies in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract support many essential bodily functions.

Research shows that dysbiosis in the gut impacts your overall health and wellbeing, potentially contributing to mood disorders, inflammation, and an increased risk of conditions such as obesity, cancer, and autism.

Causes of Gut Dysbiosis

Diverse internal and external stimuli can trigger dysbiosis. The following factors can harm your digestive system and gut microbiota:


Note: Learn how to lower cortisol levels naturally and improve your gut health.


What Can Gut Dysbiosis Lead to?

Dysbiosis can provoke or worsen the following gastrointestinal problems:

A dysregulated gut microbiome also affects the endocrine, immune, and nervous system. The gut-brain connection is complex and bidirectional. Therefore, any digestive issue can directly impact the brain, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

How Is Gut Dysbiosis Diagnosed?

Healthcare providers use various lab tests to diagnose infections caused by dysbiosis. After identifying all the factors affecting your microbiome, the doctor will recommend a gut-strengthening treatment.

Comprehensive Stool Sampling

This test evaluates the levels and diversity of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in your stool. It helps identify imbalances such as bacterial overgrowth, the presence of harmful pathogens, inflammation markers, and issues with digestive enzyme function. The test typically looks for beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium while assessing for potentially harmful organisms, yeast, and parasites.

Hydrogen Breath Test (HBT)

For gut dysbiosis, a breath test can sometimes reveal the types of bacteria dominating the gut. Your doctor will ask you to drink a sugar solution and exhale into a special balloon. Abnormal levels of certain gases can suggest a bacterial imbalance. HBT is commonly used to diagnose small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Organic Acids Test

This urine-based test looks for organic acids, which are byproducts of microbial metabolism in the gut. Abnormally high levels of certain organic acids, like D-lactate or arabinose, can indicate an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast. The OAT test helps detect microbial imbalances that may contribute to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or gastrointestinal distress.

Food Sensitivity and Intolerance Test

These tests, which can involve blood or stool samples, measure immune responses (IgG or IgA antibodies) to specific foods. Food sensitivities may arise from gut dysbiosis, as an imbalanced microbiome can impair the gut barrier and immune function. These tests can help pinpoint foods that are triggering inflammatory responses, often associated with gut imbalances.

Intestinal Permeability Test

This test assesses the integrity of the gut lining by measuring how well two non-metabolizable sugars, lactulose and mannitol, are absorbed. Increased intestinal permeability, often called "leaky gut," can occur when dysbiosis damages the gut lining, allowing larger molecules to pass through and trigger immune reactions.

Blood Test

Blood tests that measure levels of inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), can provide indirect evidence of gut dysbiosis. Chronic gut imbalances often contribute to systemic inflammation, which can manifest in various health issues. Elevated inflammation markers in blood tests can signal that dysbiosis is causing or exacerbating inflammatory responses in the body.

Gut Dysbiosis Treatment

Dysbiosis treatment depends on the cause and the underlying medical condition that may require medication. Patients triggered by environmental factors need to modify their lifestyle to help restore balance.

The following list includes the most effective treatments for dysbiosis.

Balanced Diet

A diverse, fiber-rich diet packed with essential nutrients can strengthen your gut flora and recover microbial balance. The following dietary guidelines can help you get started:


Note: Read about 10 immune-boosting vitamins that can help you improve overall health.


Gut-Supporting Supplements

Gut-supporting supplements are specifically designed to aid digestion and encourage microbial diversity. They contain cultures of specific bacteria that keep your microbiota healthy and thriving.

Always consult a healthcare provider before trying a new supplement to ensure safety and suitability for your health concern.

Vibrant Vitality Clinic experts recommend the following gut-enhancing supplements:

Vibrant Redness Relief supplement

It modulates the inflammatory response to support the natural clearance of proteins, encourages lymphatic drainage, and protects against oxidative stress. It is particularly effective in treating leaky gut and seasonal allergies.

Vibrant Gut Support supplement

This gut-boosting supplement protects the gut lining for optimal permeability and integrity, preventing toxins, allergens, and microbes from entering the bloodstream and enhancing nutrient absorption.

Vibrant Omegas supplement

This dietary supplement helps support the brain, skin, and cardiovascular health. It reduces gastrointestinal inflammation and hydrates skin by supporting its lipid membrane.

Vibrant 14-Day Detox supplement

This dairy-free food powder contains nutrients, antioxidants, such as vitamins A and C, herbs, fiber, and fruit and vegetable extracts that promote detoxification and help the body expel xenobiotics, pollutants, and remnants of pharmaceutical drugs, excess hormones, and metabolic byproducts.

Osmosis Digestive Support Supplement

It contains pancreatic enzymes that help break down dairy, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce toxicity for a healthier gut.

Medication

Antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals can target infections and microbial overgrowth. Your doctor may prescribe the following medications to manage the bacteria:

While these treatments reduce harmful microorganisms, they may also impact beneficial ones. Some microbiomes recover naturally, while others may need probiotics, targeted nutrition, or fecal microbiota therapy to help restore their health and diversity.

Lifestyle Changes

Most microbiomes naturally recover from dysbiosis in the gut-promoting environment. You can speed up this recovery by making the following lifestyle adjustments:

How Long Does Gut Dysbiosis Take to Heal?

Without treatment, dysbiosis can take months to heal. However, targeted therapies, medication, and treatments can help relieve symptoms in just a few days.

The treatment’s speed and effectiveness depend on the root cause. Gut dysbiosis triggered by antibiotics may resolve faster with probiotics and dietary adjustments, whereas dysbiosis from a chronic illness may need a more comprehensive treatment plan to restore balance.

What Happens If Gut Dysbiosis Is Left Untreated?

Dysbiosis is usually mild and resolves on its own. However, it makes you more vulnerable to infections from internal and external microbes. An unhealthy gut microbiome can lead to chronic conditions and worsen the existing ones if left untreated.

The following health issues may develop if you do not treat dysbiosis:


Note: Learn practical ways to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.


Is Gut Dysbiosis Contagious?

Dysbiosis is typically not contagious. However, intestinal bacteria can be transmitted from one host to another via the fecal-oral route. Additionally, beneficial bacteria can be transferred from mother to child during birth through the vaginal–oral route and breast milk in infancy.

Conclusion

Medical intervention is not always necessary to keep microbial diversity balanced and prevent bacterial overgrowth. You can support gut flora with a healthy diet and lifestyle adjustments. However, understanding the underlying cause is critical to successful recovery and long-term health.

Consult our Vibrant Vitality Clinic experts for more information about gut health and recommended treatments.

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation: What Are the Differences?

The immune system is an intricate network of organs, cells, proteins, and chemicals that protect the body from internal and external harmful elements. Inflammation is a vital process in our immune system’s natural response to threats. In its acute phase, it is necessary and beneficial. However, when it turns into a systemic, chronic condition, it can lead to damage.

This article focuses on the differences between acute and chronic inflammation, helping you understand how to recognize and treat them.

Acute vs. chronic inflammation

What Is Acute Inflammation?

Acute inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection, disease, or injury. It involves an increased migration of leukocytes (white blood cells) and proteins to the zone of the injured area to combat pathogens and repair cells and tissues. Increased blood flow typically causes redness, swelling, warmth, and tingling. Patients also feel pain at the site of injury.

Acute inflammation is a vital and beneficial part of the healing process. It subsides when the assaulting agent (pathogen, injury, etc.) is eliminated.

Types of Acute Inflammation

Medical professionals recognize six types of acute inflammation based on the discharge present at the inflammation site:

What Is Chronic Inflammation?

Chronic inflammation is the body’s prolonged defense reaction to a perceived threat – a pathogen, allergen, toxin, or some other invasive factor. It appears when the body fails to resolve the threat or mistakenly perceives healthy tissues as harmful elements. Instead of affecting a particular area, chronic inflammation produces a systemic response, constantly stimulating the increased production of leukocytes, cytokines, and other pro-inflammatory mediators. Eventually, it destroys tissues, organs, and blood vessels.

Types of Chronic Inflammation

Scientists recognize two types of chronic inflammation:

How Does Acute Inflammation Differ from Chronic Inflammation?

Acute and chronic inflammation differ in severity, symptoms, duration, and treatment. The following table summarizes their differences.

Acute InflammationChronic Inflammation
SymptomsRedness, swelling, heat, pain, loss of function.Gastrointestinal problems, weight gain, fatigue, joint pain, mood disorders, skin issues.
ExamplesSore throat, pneumonia, sinusitis, insect bites, acute dermatitis, etc.Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, heart disease, kidney disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, etc.
CausesInjury, infection, chemical irritants.Poor diet, lack of exercise, sleep problems, stress, pollutants, alcohol, smoking.
TreatmentAnti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics, corticosteroids, supplements, rest.Improved lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, sleep, relaxation), supplements, medications.
DurationSeveral hours or days.Several months or years.

Examples of Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation

The following examples can help you distinguish between the two inflammation types.

Acute Inflammation

The body’s essential inflammatory immune response appears when we suffer from the following conditions:

Sinusitis as an example of acute inflammation

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to these inflammatory diseases:

Obesity as an example of chronic inflammation

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Symptoms

Inflammatory symptoms strongly indicate whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Acute Inflammation

The symptoms of acute inflammation are intense, short-lived, and typically localized at the site of injury or infection. They include:

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation symptoms may go unnoticed for a long time. When they appear, they manifest as:

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Causes

The causes of acute and chronic inflammation differ. Unresolved acute inflammation can lead to chronic conditions.

Acute Inflammation

Common causes of acute inflammation include:

Physical trauma causes acute inflammation

Chronic Inflammation

Factors leading to or perpetuating chronic inflammation include:

Sleeping disorders cause chronic inflammation

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Diagnosis

Acute and chronic inflammation exhibit different symptoms and recruit different concentrations of inflammatory cells and proteins, such as interleukins, tumor necrosis factors, and C-reactive protein. This enables medical providers to establish whether acute or chronic inflammation is present.

Acute Inflammation

Medical providers physically examine the patient, discuss their symptoms and potential causes, and review their medical history. Acute inflammation is easy to spot due to apparent, intense, localized symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain.

They may also order blood tests, such as:

Chronic Inflammation

In chronic inflammation, macrophages and lymphocytes typically replace neutrophils. They stimulate the release of other inflammatory mediators that serve as the next line of defense, such as cytokines, growth factors, enzymes, and plasma cells, and form clusters of white blood cells called granuloma.

A blood test showing increased levels of these biomarkers can indicate chronic inflammation. The blood tests are the same as those for acute inflammation – CBC, CRP, ESR, etc. However, medical providers don’t typically test patients unless they show signs of associated inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, arthritis, etc. They may require additional diagnostic tools and specialized tests, including:

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Prevention

When possible, disease prevention is better than treatment. Acute and chronic inflammation prevention techniques differ to some extent because their functions and causes vary.

Acute Inflammation

Acute inflammation is essential in helping the body cope with infection and injury. Instead of preventing it, focus on preventing its causes – injury, infection, and harsh chemicals. Avoid elements that hinder recovery and prolong the inflammatory response, such as alcohol, nicotine, unhealthy foods, and stress.

Chronic Inflammation

The best way to prevent chronic inflammation is to focus on eliminating unhealthy foods, maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, getting enough sleep, and limiting stress.

Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Treatment

Inflammation requires medical attention and lifestyle modification.

Acute Inflammation

The treatment of acute inflammation depends on its cause. In case of bacterial infections, doctors prescribe antibiotics. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents are used for viral infections, fever, and pain. Corticosteroids, pain relievers, and cold compresses help with swelling and pain. Doctors also advise patients to eat healthfully, stay away from nicotine and alcohol, and rest.

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation requires a sustainable lifestyle modification, including:


Note: Read our article on how to reduce inflammation for more helpful tips and advice.


How Long Do Acute and Chronic Inflammation Last?

Acute inflammation starts immediately upon assault (injury, infection) and typically lasts several hours or days.

Chronic inflammation lasts much longer – from several months to several years, and in the case of some inflammatory diseases, it is life-long.

Consequences of Untreated Acute and Chronic Inflammation

Unresolved acute inflammation can turn into a chronic condition.

Untreated chronic inflammation can lead to more severe (in some cases, life-threatening) diseases, including premature skin aging, sexual dysfunction, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, neurodegenerative conditions, heart disease, and even cancer.

Conclusion

Inflammation is a vital defense mechanism that protects us from injury and infection. However, when it fails to eliminate the invading element, it turns into chronic inflammation that gradually destroys our tissues and organs.

Prevent chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of developing a severe inflammatory disease.

Exercise and Hormones: How Are They Related?

Science confirms the positive effects of regular exercise on our health and disease prevention. One of its key mechanisms of action is hormone regulation.

Hormones are chemical messengers that send signals to our brain to perform essential bodily functions like blood sugar regulation, muscle growth, immune response, and more. When hormones are out of balance, we experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems, weight gain, fatigue, depression, sexual dysfunction, and many other disorders that can lead to severe and life-threatening diseases.

This article explains the connection between exercise and hormones and recommends the best workouts for hormonal balance.

Exercise and hormones

How Does Exercise Affect Your Hormones?

Exercise stimulates the production of various hormones that regulate vital bodily functions, helping to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, endocrine, skeletal, emotional, mental, and other health parameters.

Exercise activates the hypothalamus, stimulating the pituitary and other endocrine glands to increase the production of hormones like testosterone, estrogen, endorphins, and growth hormones. It also increases the heart rate and blood flow, facilitating the circulation of hormones throughout the body.

Scientists have observed athletes and non-athletes over the years to determine how exercise affects their health. They established that any increase in physical activity levels reduces the risk of illness in sedentary patients and that the benefits multiply with more intense and longer workouts – up to a certain point.


Note: In case you are dealing with low estrogen levels, check our article and find out more ways on how to increase estrogen.


Can Exercise Lead to a Hormone Imbalance?

When exercise becomes too intense in volume or duration (or both), it can lead to a reduction in hormones and symptoms associated with this decrease, especially if combined with inadequate recovery and a nutritionally poor diet.

Health professionals advise finding a healthy balance in exercise frequency and intensity. The general guideline is to engage in 150-180 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly for the best results.

What Hormones Are Released in Response to Exercise?

Exercise stimulates the release or affects the regulation of these hormones:

Serotonin

Known as one of the happiness hormones, serotonin helps regulate mood, sleep, appetite and libido, and promotes optimism. Trials show exercise stimulates tryptophan metabolism, which is a protein involved in serotonin synthesis. The scientists observed increased serotonin production during and after vigorous workouts.

Dopamine

Evidence suggests exercise increases dopamine levels and could be a promising alternative method for treating mental illness. It improves mood, memory, and learning, stimulates motivation, and provides a pleasurable feeling of accomplishment.

Endorphins

Like serotonin and dopamine, endorphins are “feel-good” hormones released during physical activity that accelerate the heart rate. They also alleviate pain, induce pleasurable sensations, and improve mood.

Cortisol

Moderate exercise temporarily raises cortisol, which helps break down stored fat and increase energy expenditure. This temporary rise in cortisol also stimulates the production of other hormones, such as insulin, testosterone, and insulin-like growth factor 1, improving other bodily functions (e.g., glucose regulation and muscle repair). Cortisol levels return to normal after the workout, and this helps maintain a balanced stress response.

Excessively vigorous or frequent workouts may cause chronically elevated cortisol and disrupt other hormones and functions.


Note: Learn how to reduce cortisol naturally and prevent illness related to chronic stress.


Insulin

Muscle contraction during exercise increases muscle glucose uptake to provide enough energy to sustain the physical activity. Glucose transfer into cells during and after exercise doesn’t require insulin, and this decrease in insulin production increases the body’s sensitivity to the hormone. Ultimately, exercise can help normalize blood sugar levels and reverse insulin resistance in some patients, making it an important factor in managing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Estrogen

Regular exercise has tremendous beneficial effects on estrogen, reducing excess levels during perimenopause, certain phases of the menstrual cycle, or in cases of hormonal disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Exercise also helps balance estrogen in overweight people, as excess fat tissue promotes the overproduction of this hormone. By reducing body fat and improving insulin sensitivity, exercise helps regulate estrogen and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances.

Testosterone

Testosterone has a significant role in our reproductive health, bone and muscle development, and brain function. Regular exercise, especially resistance training, helps increase testosterone levels temporarily and may help slow testosterone decline often seen in middle-aged men and women. However, most studies show testosterone levels return to normal during muscle recovery. More research is needed to establish whether physical activity has a lasting effect on testosterone production.


Note: Learn about testosterone therapy, and how it helps increase testosterone levels and improve physical performance.


Growth Factors

Exercise stimulates the production of growth hormones, especially human growth hormone (HGH), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). These hormones help regulate muscle and tissue growth and repair, fat metabolism, lipid levels, insulin sensitivity, and overall hormonal health.

Melatonin

Moderate exercise may stimulate the production and release of melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Though evidence is inconclusive, scientists speculate regular training sessions could help patients with sleep problems alone or combined with other treatments.

Exercise may also modulate thyroid hormones, leptin, ghrelin, and other hormones, but more research is needed to understand these effects.

Best Exercise for Hormonal Imbalances

According to health experts, any exercise – even a few minutes daily – is better than none and can benefit health parameters. For the best results, the general guidelines prescribe engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity weekly.

Research has found the following exercise types provide the most benefits for hormonal homeostasis:

Fitness professionals recommend combining strength and resistance training throughout the week for the best results. However, they warn that especially strenuous exercise may do more harm than good and disrupt the hormonal balance.

The general exercise guidelines are made for healthy individuals. Patients with certain conditions related to hormonal imbalances may require a different approach. For example, studies show men with erectile dysfunction may benefit more from aerobic exercise than strength training.

If you have any health concerns, consult your medical provider before starting an exercise regimen to ensure it aligns with your needs.

How Long to Exercise to Balance Hormones?

The results of exercise don’t happen overnight. Consistency and improving other lifestyle habits are essential for achieving a hormonal balance. This may require several weeks or months.

The effects of physical exercise on hormones depend on many factors, including the exercise type, intensity, duration and frequency, the duration of rest periods, and other lifestyle factors like diet and sleep, the person’s age, physical condition, and overall health.

Therefore, the time it takes to balance hormones (and whether this ultimately happens) is unique to each individual.

What Happens to Hormones if You Don’t Exercise?

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, fat accumulation, and sleep problems, disrupting essential hormones - insulin, cortisol, sex hormones, ghrelin, leptin, etc. These health concerns and hormonal imbalances perpetuate one another and make it difficult to break the cycle.

Supplements, medications, IV therapy, and other medical weight loss solutions help patients lose weight and stabilize hormones, but improvement is not sustainable without regular physical activity and a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Extensive scientific research demonstrates the tremendous beneficial effects of exercise on our mental and physical health. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart attack, diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression and greatly improves the quality of life.

Though exercise alone can’t prevent disease, it is an essential strategy in balancing hormones and reducing the risk of severe medical conditions. Helping people understand the extent of its wide-reaching positive consequences is critical to creating a life-long, daily engagement in physical activity.

If you are interested in hormone therapy with a customized diet and exercise plan, book a consultation with our skilled medical professionals at Vibrant Vitality Clinic.