Dr. Supriya Rao, a board-certified gastroenterologist, has highlighted the connection between the gut and the brain, referring to the gut as the “second brain.” She emphasizes the importance of bi-directional communication between the two, especially in patients with conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which can cause severe pain, bowel habit changes, and mental health issues.
Through lifestyle changes such as diet modifications, exercise, better sleep, meditation, and stress relief, patients can see improvements in both their GI symptoms and mental health. Dr. Rao encourages mindful eating practices, like the 80% full rule, to prevent overeating and improve communication between the brain and gut.
Dr. Rao warns against consuming too much sugar, which can have negative effects on gut health, leading to constipation, nausea, upset stomach, and abdominal pain. She notes that up to 90% of patients with IBS also have mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
As an expert in this field, Dr. Rao’s insights have been featured in various articles discussing the importance of maintaining a healthy gut-brain connection through lifestyle changes and mindful eating practices. Her approach emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health issues and making dietary adjustments to promote better overall health and well-being.
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