Arizonans looking to improve their overall health, and their love life, may want to start with their gut. Recent scientific research reveals that gut health influences not just digestion but also mental and emotional well-being through the complex relationship between gut bacteria and the brain.
This is often called the gut-brain axis and it’s a fascinating look at how love — or the love hormone oxytocin — really is a gut feeling.
Oxytocin is a hormone that’s naturally released during activities such as hugging and holding hands, and it’s also released in mothers during childbirth.
More research is needed to truly understand how this hormone works and what the mechanisms are. What we do know is the gut microbiome influences the production of oxytocin which in addition to emotional influences helps prevent stress-related digestive issues like bloating, nausea and discomfort.
Research has shown that beneficial bacteria in the gut can boost levels of oxytocin — often called the “love hormone” — in the bloodstream.
Simply put, the hormone triggers feelings of love, protection, empathy, trust and lust.
How does this relate to Valentine’s Day? Well, it’s like the old saying — the best way to the heart is through the stomach. Researchers have noted that oxytocin influences positive emotions such as love and happiness which can boost the immune system. It’s a cyclical event that clearly shows how your health is tied to your love levels.
Research also shows that love can help you live longer. A study from the National Institutes of Health revealed that people in long-term relationships had a 20% lower risk of early death.
This Valentine’s Day, try these loving ways to treat your gut and in turn, your love hormone.
Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference. A diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes provides essential nutrients beneficial to gut bacteria. Adding probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and fermented vegetables helps maintain a diverse and healthy gut microbiome.
According to Center Square, Arizonans who focus on gut health will benefit from better physical and emotional wellness. So, if you find yourself hungry for love this Valentine’s Day, treat your gut right and wait for love to appear on the menu.
Editor’s note: Scottsdale-based Michael Hartman, Ph.D. is vice president of research and development at Plexus Worldwide. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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