Paul Norg

The saying "you are what you eat" takes on a new meaning when discussing the relationship between nutrition and mental health. With ongoing research into the gut-brain connection, it's becoming clear that what you consume can significantly affect your mental well-being, including symptoms of depression. Here's how: The Gut-Brain Axis:  - What It Is: The gut-brain axis refers to the biochemical signaling that takes place between the gastrointestinal tract (the gut) and the central nervous system (the brain). There are quite a few other things that make the gut flora balanced.  Lactobacillus rhamnosus  ( The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems - PMC,  n.d.)   was one of the probiotics I've used to fight lactose intolerance. A few days of taking colony-forming numbers of this form reduced my negative reactions to milk products.  (para. 13.) - Why It Matters: Research shows that an unhealthy gut can negat...

     Numerous studies have highlighted the role physical activity plays in mental health. For those living with depression, incorporating regular exercise can offer significant relief from symptoms. Let’s delve into the relationship between physical activity and depression, understanding its benefits and how to harness them effectively. 1. Biochemical Boost: - What Happens: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins—natural mood lifters. It also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that can reduce depression and anxiety. For years now, I've been told and have read from multiple sources that physical activity limits and reduces depression and stress through biological changes in hormone and metabolic functions. I do feel better when I work out. Lately, however, it's been difficult because I can't use my legs for working out. - Benefit for Depression: These biochemical changes improve mood, reduce feelings of stress, and create a sens...

Mindfulness refers to the practice of focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. It has been shown to have significant benefits for mental health, including the reduction of depression symptoms. Here are some mindfulness techniques that can help alleviate these symptoms: 1. Mindful Breathing:    - What It Is: This simple yet effective mindfulness technique involves focusing your attention on your breath as it flows in and out. The other day I was practicing breathing and lowering my pain at the chiropractor. I'm usually textbook with my BP unless I have a lot of pain that day. They were doing a check on my progress, and BP was one of those checks. It came back 90/77 vs 120/80 ish. Mindfulness can sometimes be that dramatically effective.      From  What are the Benefits of Cold Therapy? | Wim Hof Method  (n.d.) details on how to use cold therapy are outlined and it suggests that handling more than just mental stres...

This donation page is open till August 31st this year. The BCFM organization helped me in many lasting ways during my fight against AML cancer. And for that reason, I began supporting and looking for ways to help them raise money and personally donate to them for the last 3 years since I recovered from AML. https://www.facebook.com/donate/300656985633050/