Gut Microbiome and Pain

I love the research being done on the gut microbiome. Love it.

There is a gut-brain axis where the balance of different types of gut bacteria correlate to mood and to pain. Hormones (ex. serotonin, dopamine), as well as their precursors, are created in your GI tract and one of my favorite nerves, the vagus nerve, creates a bridge between your brain and your gut. There are many studies showing the correlation of the vagus nerve to pain.

Many of my patients with elevated inflammatory markers of unknown etiologies have chronic pain, which can be due to leaky gut syndrome. When gut bacteria have an imbalance, the intestinal lining becomes leaky, and immune systems are ramped up, creating a constant inflammatory state. This can be changed with lifestyle modifications including diet, supplements, exercise, rest.