Most people think of chiropractic care typically of neck pain, back pain, and other musculoskeletal issues. However, chiropractic care can positively impact many other areas of the body, including the digestive system. This relief occurs because of the gut-brain connection, a complex communication network between the gut and the brain. Here’s how chiropractic care can help improve digestive health and why you should consider visiting a trusted chiropractor in Fort Collins, CO.
What is the Gut-Brain Connection?
The gut-brain connection is a shared communication system between the gut and the brain. The gut contains its nervous system, called the enteric nervous system. This system communicates with the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, through various pathways within the body.
These pathways include the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem to the abdomen, and the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body’s “fight or flight” response.
The gut and the brain also communicate through hormones and neurotransmitters. For example, the gut produces serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter commonly associated with mood regulation. Believe it or not, you can find about 90% of the body’s serotonin in the gut.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Even though chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, it can relieve many other areas throughout the body. Parts of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine, act as a communication pathway. By adjusting the spine and correcting misalignments, a chiropractor can help improve communication between the gut and the brain.
This treatment can lead to a variety of benefits for digestive health, including:
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation in the gut can cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce inflammation, leading to improved digestive function.
Improved Gut Motility
The gut relies on muscle contractions to move food through the digestive tract. When these contractions are weak or irregular, it can lead to issues such as constipation. Chiropractic adjustments can help improve gut motility by reducing nerve interference and improving communication between the gut and the brain.
Reduced Stress
Stress can harm digestive health, as it can cause the body to go into “fight or flight” mode and divert blood flow away from the digestive system. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, improving digestive function.
Improved Nutrient Absorption
When the gut is inflamed or experiencing other issues, it can be difficult for the body to absorb necessary nutrients from food. Chiropractic adjustments help improve gut function, leading to better nutrient absorption.
Reduced Risk of Digestive Disorders
By improving gut function and reducing inflammation, chiropractic care can help reduce the risk of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Final Thoughts
The gut-brain connection is a complicated communication system connecting the brain and gut that significantly affects digestive health. Chiropractic care can assist with further developing correspondence between the stomach and the brain, prompting different advantages for gut-related health. Consider visiting Heart and Hand Chiropractic in Fort Collins, CO. We are an experienced and dedicated team who can assist you in achieving optimal digestive health and enhance your well-being. To learn more or get started, contact us today at (970) 377-3557.
