Happy Gut, Happy Mind

How Your Gut Bacteria Influence Your Mood and Well-being

Do you sometimes feel a flutter in your stomach or a queasy sensation when you’re stressed? Your gut and brain are closely connected – and this connection plays a significant role in influencing your mood and overall well-being. Your gut communicates with you – and it has a greater impact on your emotional state than you might realise. This is because the gut and brain are intricately linked through the gut-brain axis. Trillions of gut bacteria not only affect your digestion but also your mood, stress levels, and mental resilience.

When this delicate balance is disrupted – due to stress, poor nutrition, or environmental factors – it often reflects in your sense of well-being. But you can take action: with a gut-friendly diet, intentional relaxation, and high-quality supplements, you can nurture your gut microbiome and boost your mood. In this article, you’ll discover how your gut and psyche are interconnected and how to strengthen your inner balance.

How the Gut-Brain Axis Influences Your Mood

Our gut is far more than just a digestive organ – it’s a true team player that’s in constant communication with our brain. This connection is known as the gut-brain axis. The nervous system within the gut, called the enteric nervous system, contains around 100 million nerve cells and works closely with the brain. The key messenger of this connection is the vagus nerve, which acts as a direct communication highway between the gut and the brain. It transmits signals in both directions, significantly influencing how we feel.

But it’s not just nerves at play here. Hormones and neurotransmitters, such as serotonin – often called the “happiness hormone” – are also part of the equation. In fact, around 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. When the gut microbiome falls out of balance, this communication can be disrupted – with potential consequences for our mood.

Medications like antibiotics and heavily processed foods with additives and preservatives can significantly disrupt this delicate balance by destroying not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial gut bacteria. Chronic stress has a similar impact: it increases the production of free radicals, which attack the sensitive gut microbiome. This particularly affects the bacteria responsible for producing mood-boosting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. The result? Low mood, fatigue, or even depressive symptoms.

This highlights an essential truth: when your gut is healthy, your mind benefits too. But stress, unhealthy diets, and medications can throw this balance off. It’s time to start taking good care of your gut!

Your gut whispers, your brain responds!

Gut Bacteria and Mental Health:
Why Your Gut Feeling Is More Than Just Intuition

Sometimes, the key to a better mood is closer than you think – in your gut, to be exact. Around 100 trillion microorganisms live there, collectively forming your microbiome. These tiny helpers influence not only your digestion but also your mood, stress levels, and even your behaviour.

What’s particularly fascinating is that certain gut bacteria play a crucial role in producing serotonin – the hormone that makes us feel happy. These include:

Lactobacillus plantarum – supports serotonin production and has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Bifidobacterium infantis – strengthens the gut microbiome and can help alleviate depressive symptoms.
A combination of Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum has been shown in studies to reduce stress and anxiety.

However, this delicate balance can be easily disrupted. Chronic stress, an unbalanced diet, or antibiotics can deplete valuable gut bacteria. Unfortunately, the bacteria responsible for producing our “happiness hormones” are often the first to be affected. The result? Mood swings, irritability, and, in the worst cases, depressive symptoms.

And the Numbers Speak for Themselves!

People with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis have up to a fourfold increased risk of developing depression or anxiety disorders.
For those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), up to 90% also struggle with psychological issues such as anxiety and depression.
Even in cases of ADHD, research suggests that a disrupted microbiome could influence the development and severity of symptoms.

It’s clear: when the gut suffers, the mind does too. That’s why it’s all the more important to protect and nurture our invisible companions – for greater inner balance and mental resilience.

Gut-Friendly Nutrition:
Boost Your Mood with the Right Foods

What you eat doesn’t just affect your digestion – it also impacts your mood. By choosing the right foods, you can actively support your gut microbiome – and in turn, your emotional well-being. After all, a healthy gut is the foundation for mental resilience.

Fun Fact:

fter a targeted gut restoration, you might weigh up to 2 kilograms more – but not because you’ve gained fat! It’s simply because your gut is finally teeming with a diverse population of healthy bacteria. A thriving microbiome really does add some weight to the scales!

Prebiotics and Probiotics – Nature’s Perfect Team

Prebiotics are indigestible fibres that nourish the good bacteria in your gut. Natural sources include psyllium husks, chicory, artichokes, onions, and flaxseeds. Bitter compounds from herbs like dandelion, artichoke, and gentian also stimulate digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Probiotics, on the other hand, deliver live microorganisms that directly support your gut flora. You can find them in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, yoghurt, kefir, kombucha, or MyREGULATE.

Healthy Fats – Energy for Gut and Brain

Healthy fats are essential for the well-being of both your gut and your brain. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly valuable, found in flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts, and fatty fish. They have anti-inflammatory properties, protect the gut barrier, and support brain function.

👉 A tip for vegetarians and vegans: Plant-based Omega-3 sources usually provide only alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which the body can convert into the valuable EPA and DHA fatty acids only in limited amounts. A practical solution is our vegan AlgaeDHA, offering directly usable Omega-3 fatty acids.

Sugar, Alcohol, and Fast Food – Enemies of Your Gut Microbiome

As valuable as healthy foods are for your gut, some can be equally harmful:

Sugar feeds harmful bacteria and yeast in the gut, promoting inflammation and weakening the gut barrier.
Alcohol acts like a toxin for your microbiome. Even small amounts can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and irritate the mucous membranes.
Fast food and heavily processed foods provide little nutritional value but are loaded with additives that encourage the growth of harmful microbes.
Stress eating often leads to unhealthy snacking. Under stress, digestion slows, and the gut lining suffers even more.

The result? Low mood, fatigue, and a higher risk of chronic inflammation. Reducing sugar, alcohol, and processed foods can significantly ease the strain on your gut.

Vitamin D and B12 – Nutrients for Mental Resilience

Vitamin D not only strengthens the immune system but also supports serotonin production. In the winter months, a deficiency can particularly affect your mood. Foods rich in vitamin D include eggs, fatty fish, and mushrooms.

👉 If you want to give your gut microbiome an extra boost, natural helpers are available to restore your gut balance – find out more in the next section.

Conclusion:

By embracing a varied diet rich in natural prebiotics and probiotics, healthy fatty acids, bitter compounds, and sufficient amounts of vitamin D and B12, you lay the foundation for a happy gut – and with it, a stable, positive mindset.

Targeted Nutrients for a Strong Gut Microbiome and Greater Well-being

Even if you’re already supporting your gut with a balanced diet, there are times when it needs extra care – particularly during stressful periods or specific life stages. This is where targeted nutrient helpers come into play, strengthening your inner balance. These situations include:

Growth phases in children and teenagers
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Stressful periods and high work pressure
Competitive sports and physically demanding activities
Smoking and regular alcohol consumption
Advancing age

Even with a balanced diet, it has become increasingly difficult to get all the essential nutrients we need. Intensive farming has depleted soils, fruits and vegetables contain fewer vitamins and minerals, and processed foods high in sugar and fat dominate many diets. Studies show that we now consume only around 10% of the fibre intake that was typical in rural populations 50 years ago.

Another common issue is vitamin D deficiency. Our modern lifestyle often keeps us indoors, and during winter months, there’s simply not enough sunlight to produce adequate levels of vitamin D. This nutrient is also difficult to obtain through diet alone. In such cases, targeted supplements can be a smart way to give your body the support it needs to thrive.

MyREGULATE:
Probiotic Power for Your Gut Microbiome

Imagine Your Gut as a Blooming Garden – Full of Diversity and Vitality. MyREGULATE provides you with carefully selected probiotic strains, like Narine, to actively support your gut microbiome. These tiny helpers not only boost your digestion but also promote the production of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin.

✨ Your Benefit:
Greater well-being, inner calm, and a strong immune system.

👉 Start your gut health journey with MyREGULATE today and feel the difference!

ColoSTABIL®:
Prebiotic Fibres for Strong Gut Bacteria

For your gut to work at full energy, it needs the right kind of food. ColoSTABIL® provides a powerful blend of fibres, seeds, bitter compounds, and carefully selected herbs to nourish your good gut bacteria. This not only supports your digestion but also lays the foundation for a strong immune system.

🌿 Your Benefit:
Stable digestion, more energy, and enhanced well-being.

👉 Give your gut bacteria the energy they need – with ColoSTABIL®!

ActiveBRAVO joghurt:
Your Homemade Probiotic with Colostrum

How About a Yoghurt That Does More Than Just Taste Good? ActiveBRAVO yoghurt combines high-quality probiotics with colostrum – giving you a daily dose of gut health. Through natural fermentation, it delivers live cultures that enrich your microbiome and strengthen your immune system.

🥣 Your Benefit:
Naturally fermented, probiotic power, and perfect for your gut feeling.

👉 Ferment your happiness – with ActiveBRAVO yoghurt!

AlgaeDHA:
Plant-Based Omega-3 for Brain, Heart, and Nerves

Focus, Mental Strength, and a Healthy Gut? AlgaeDHA provides high-dose Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA & EPA) from sustainable algae oil – 100% plant-based and free from harmful substances. It’s the perfect choice to support your brain, nerves, and gut health.

💡 Your Benefit:
Clear thinking, strong nerves, and a balanced gut feeling.

👉 Think clearly, feel strong – with AlgaeDHA, the plant-based Omega-3 power!

VitaDK plus:
Comprehensive Support with Vitamin D3, K2, and Magnesium

Your Immune System and Gut Health Go Hand in Hand: VitaDK plus provides you with Vitamin D3, K2, and magnesium – an unbeatable trio for strong bones, healthy cells, and a robust gut lining. Especially during the winter, it’s the perfect support for your overall well-being.

☀️ Your Benefit:
More energy, strong bones, and a stable gut barrier.

👉 Fuel up on sunshine from within – with VitaDK plus for more strength and balance!

SulfoCLEAN®:
A Natural Boost for Your Vitamin B12 Metabolism

Detox, regenerate, and feel great: SulfoCLEAN® combines bioavailable organic sulphur (MSM) with plant-based ingredients. It supports your Vitamin B12 metabolism, eases the burden on your gut, and promotes the elimination of toxins. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to feel their best.

💧 Your Benefit:
Relief for your gut, liver, and kidneys – for more energy and vitality.

👉 Detox naturally – with SulfoCLEAN® for more lightness and energy!

Conclusion: Trust Your Gut – Strengthen Your Gut, Strengthen Yourself!

Your gut is more than just a digestive organ – it’s the key to your well-being and mental resilience. With a balanced diet, targeted nutrients, and a mindful lifestyle, you can do so much for your gut health. And when your busy day-to-day life doesn’t allow for it, targeted supplements can help support your inner balance.

Would you like to learn more about our products or find out which nutrients suit you best? Our Vital Team is here to help! Reach out via live chat for personal advice and discover the right solutions for your health.

👉 Explore Now: Visit our online shop to find the perfect products for your health and well-being!

Stay in Balance – How Stress Relief and Exercise Benefit Your Gut

Stress is a part of life, but chronic stress can have serious consequences for your health – especially for your gut. When we’re under constant pressure, our body produces increased levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. While short-term stress can energise the body, a persistently high cortisol level damages the gut lining, weakens the microbiome, and promotes inflammation.

Studies reveal that people with chronic stress or anxiety disorders often have elevated cortisol levels, which increases their risk of gut issues and mental health challenges.

A consistently high cortisol level can lead to:

A weakened gut lining
An imbalance in the gut microbiome
Increased inflammation in the body
Heightened anxiety and mood swings

Why Stress Affects Your Stomach

Do you know that queasy feeling in your stomach when you’re stressed? That’s no coincidence! Stress activates the nervous system and disrupts gut function. Digestive processes slow down, blood flow to the gut decreases, and the production of digestive enzymes is reduced. At the same time, more free radicals are generated, which attack the sensitive gut lining and can harm beneficial gut bacteria.

A gut under constant stress quickly falls out of balance – affecting your digestion, immune system, and mood. That’s why it’s essential to reduce stress and support your body with targeted antioxidants.

Active H®:
Cell Protection During Stress and for a Healthy Gut

Stress takes its toll – especially on your gut. Active H® delivers potent antioxidants that neutralise free radicals and protect your cells. This keeps your microbiome balanced and your body resilient, even in challenging times.

🛡️ Your Benefit:
Cell protection, fewer effects of stress, and a stronger immune system.

👉 Protect your cells – with Active H® against stress and inner unrest!

Movement – Activity for an Active Gut

Regular exercise not only keeps you fit but also gets your gut moving. Moderate endurance activities like cycling, swimming, or walking stimulate gut motility (peristalsis) and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

For active muscles and quick recovery, the 8 essential amino acids are crucial. MyAMINO® delivers these in pure form, providing optimal support for your body – perfect for anyone who wants to stay active regularly.

Targeted pelvic floor and abdominal exercises can also boost digestion. Gentle movement is particularly beneficial for people with a sensitive digestive system, as it gently activates the gut.

Tip: Even small lifestyle changes – like mindful breathing exercises, yoga, or short walks – can help lower cortisol levels, reduce stress, and improve your gut health.

Gut Health Is Self-Care for Body and Mind!

Ten Practical Tips for a Happy Gut and a Strong Mindset

Sometimes, it’s the small changes that make the biggest difference. With these simple yet effective tips, you can actively support your gut health while boosting your mental resilience.

Start your day with a glass of warm water and lemon
This gently stimulates digestion and prepares your gut for the day. For an extra fibre boost, add a spoonful of psyllium husks or ColoSTABIL®.
Include fermented foods in your diet
Sauerkraut, kimchi, fermented BRAVO yoghurt, kombucha, or MyREGULATE provide natural probiotics to strengthen your gut microbiome.
Eat mindfully and chew thoroughly
Slow, conscious eating and proper chewing ease your digestive system and enhance nutrient absorption.
Take daily time-outs
Just 10 minutes of meditation, breathing exercises, or a short walk can lower cortisol levels and relax the gut-brain axis.
Incorporate bitter foods
Herbs like dandelion and artichoke, or our herbal aperitifs like HerbiGOLD and CHI extracts, support digestion by stimulating digestive juices.
Make movement a daily habit
Gentle activities such as yoga, cycling, or a post-meal walk help stimulate gut activity.
Prioritise quality sleep
Restful sleep supports your body’s regeneration and reduces stress hormones. Regular sleep patterns and a calming evening routine are key. Active H® day can assist your body in naturally producing melatonin.
Reduce sugar and alcohol consciously
Both harm your gut microbiome. Try to avoid highly processed foods and explore natural alternatives, such as a ketogenic diet.
Address nutrient gaps proactively
When diet alone isn’t enough, high-quality supplements like MyREGULATE, ColoSTABIL®, VitaDK plus, or the essential amino acids in MyAMINO® can be valuable for your health.
Listen to your gut feeling
Pay attention to your body’s signals. Digestive issues, fatigue, or mood swings can indicate an imbalance in your gut.

Tip: You don’t have to change everything at once. Even small steps can make a big difference – and your gut will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Gut Health

❓ How do gut bacteria influence mood?
Certain gut bacteria, like Lactobacillus plantarum, promote the production of serotonin – the “happiness hormone.” A balanced gut microbiome supports your mental well-being.

❓ What helps rebuild the gut microbiome?
A fibre-rich diet, fermented foods, and targeted probiotics like MyREGULATE can actively support the rebuilding of your gut microbiome.

❓ Which nutrients strengthen gut health?
Key nutrients for gut health include Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., from AlgaeDHA), Vitamin D (e.g., from VitaDK plus), probiotics (e.g., from MyREGULATE or ActiveBRAVO yoghurt), and prebiotic fibres (e.g., from ColoSTABIL®).