The relationship between our mental health and our gut, often called the ‘second brain’, has been a topic of burgeoning interest in the medical community. Ginger DeClue, a respected Detox Coach and Iridologist, recently thrust this discussion into the limelight with her bold statement during an interview. According to her, there might come a time when every single individual might be diagnosed with a mental illness.
The Body-Gut-Mind Connection
Her contention is alarming but grounded in an observation that cannot be dismissed – a toxic body can indeed lead to mental health challenges. She argues that a gut filled with parasites, heavy metals, and nutritional deficiencies is a ticking time bomb for mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. While this assertion might sound extreme, numerous studies over the years support the intrinsic link between our digestive system and our mental health.
This bidirectional relationship implies that our emotions can affect our gastrointestinal health and, conversely, our gut health can influence our mental well-being. To understand this better, consider how your stomach churns when you’re anxious or how you feel bloated and unwell when you’re stressed. Similarly, an inflamed gut can signal the brain, resulting in feelings of unease, anxiety, or even depression.
The Dietary Shift for Optimal Gut Health
For DeClue, the solution to safeguarding mental health via a healthier gut revolves around a radical dietary shift. Advocating the intake of only fruits, juices, and smoothies for the first six hours of the day, she emphasizes the body’s inherent detoxification mechanism that kicks in between 4 a.m. to 12 p.m. During this period, hydrating and nourishing the body with vitamins and minerals becomes paramount to eliminate waste and inhibit the build-up of detrimental elements.
The Gut Microbiome and Mental Health
Recent scientific explorations have shed light on the importance of the gut microbiome in determining our mental health. A vast study involving more than 1,000 participants discovered a significant correlation between the presence of certain gut bacteria and mood. Specifically, individuals with higher levels of Faecalibacterium and Coprococcus were found to have a better mood. Conversely, those with depression showed decreased levels of Coprococcus and Dialister.
This implies that maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria could be crucial for mental health. Probiotics, fermented foods, and a balanced diet can help in cultivating an environment where beneficial bacteria thrive, potentially decreasing the risk of mental health issues.
Are our minds in danger?
However, as groundbreaking as DeClue’s theory may sound, it is essential to approach it with a balanced view. While the link between the gut and mental health is undeniable, suggesting that everyone might suffer from mental illness due to poor gut health might be an overreach.
There are numerous factors – genetic, environmental, and personal – that contribute to mental health disorders. Moreover, while diet plays a significant role in gut health, mental illnesses cannot be reduced to just dietary habits. Factors such as genetics, trauma, upbringing, and external environmental stresses also play a crucial role.
What’s the conclusion?
Ginger DeClue’s stance offers a fresh perspective on the profound influence of gut health on our mental well-being. While her prediction of a universal diagnosis of mental illness is debatable, the emphasis on the importance of gut health cannot be overlooked. Incorporating dietary habits that promote gut health might indeed be a step forward in preventing certain mental health issues. However, a holistic approach, which considers all potential factors contributing to mental health, will always be the most effective strategy.
That being said Ginger’s detox program has rave reviews and she has a dedicated loyal following online. Having recently completed an in person day of Iridology and detox training in London, England, it’s clear her popularity and following is growing worldwide. To learn more check out her latest videos with tips on her social media @detoxwithgingerdeclue.
