Gut-Brain-Microbiota Axis by Genova Diagnostics Thursday 18th October ANP Edinburgh
Gut-Brain-Microbiota Axis by Genova Diagnostics
Edinburgh Thursday 18th October
6.30-9.30pm
by Kate Osbourne
The gut-brain axis (GBA) consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. The importance of the gut–brain axis in regulating stress-related responses has long been appreciated. More recently, the microbiota has emerged as a key player in the control of this axis, especially during conditions of stress. The routes of communication between the microbiota and brain include the vagus nerve, gut hormone signaling, the immune system, tryptophan metabolism, and microbial metabolites such as short chain fatty acids. The importance of the early life gut microbiota in shaping later health outcomes also is emerging.
This seminar will discuss the cross-talk of the gut and the brain with the immune system via the vagus nerve.
Combining these imbalances we will discuss the Adrenal Stress Profile to detect imbalances in the daily circadian secretions of the stress hormones cortisol and DHEA. Imbalances in these hormones can indicate an inappropriate response that can negatively impact energy levels, emotions, and many other health complaints. These include anxiety, chronic inflammatory conditions, allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia, depression, migraines, headaches, recurrent infections, menstrual difficulties and infertility.
The GI Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile is an innovative stool test measuring premier biomarkers of gastrointestinal function, providing valuable clinical insight into digestive performance, gut inflammation, and the gut microbiome — areas affecting not only GI health, but overall health as well. By evaluating targeted biomarkers, the GI Effects® Stool Profiles can reveal hidden conditions that other stool tests may overlook.
The sophisticated biomarkers from the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile are reported using an intuitive DIG framework, providing key clinical information for three main gastrointestinal functional areas:
- Digestion/Absorption:
Markers assess exocrine pancreatic function, undigested protein reaching the colon and fat breakdown and absorption
- Inflammation/Immunology:
Including Calprotectin, Eosinophil Protein X and Fecal Secretory IgA
- Gut Microbiome:
- Metabolic indicators, demonstrating vital metabolic functions performed by the microbiota
- Commensal Bacteria, demonstrating the composition, diversity, and relative abundance of gut organisms.
- Bacterial and mycological culture, which demonstrate the presence of specific beneficial and pathological organisms.
- Parasitology
GI Effects provides microscopic examination of fecal specimens for ova and parasites (O&P) and Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) for the identification of Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolytica, and Giardia lamblia.
The profile provides an informative report with synthesised actionable results and a D.I.G. treatment format (Digestion, Inflammation and Gut Microbiome).
During the course of the lecture we will explore these connections and how functional testing can help to inform clinical practice. Considering that diet is one of the most important modifying factors of the microbiota-gut-brain axis we will also discuss possible therapeutic strategies.
The ANP, is a professional Association representing Naturopathic Therapists. As Naturopathy is based on principals and not on a specific therapy one can find a Naturopathic Therapist practicing as Homeopath, Herbalist, Acupuncturist, or Nutritionist. www.theanp.co.uk