The brain-gut connection is a big deal. It is
revolutionizing the way doctors and scientists approach digestion, mood, health
and the way we think. One way to understand it is to picture a “brain in the
gut,” which is actually known as the enteric nervous system (ENS). It’s
composed of more than 100 million nerve cells that line the G.I. tract running
from the esophagus to the rectum.
Internationally renowned ENS specialist Dr.
Jay Pasricha says, “The enteric nervous system doesn’t seem capable of thought as
we know it, but it communicates back and forth with our big brain with profound
results. Its main role is controlling digestion, from swallowing to the release
of enzymes that break down food to the control of blood flow that helps with
nutrient absorption to elimination. For decades, researchers and doctors
thought that anxiety and depression contributed to gut problems, but our
studies and others show that it may also be the other way around.”1
In keeping up with the latest scientific
developments, Nikken has launched Kenzen® Lactoferrin
2.0™
as an integral
component of Active Wellness. The lactoferrin in the formulation addresses the
body’s need for iron to help hemoglobin carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest
of the body. But Lactoferrin 2.0 takes the formulation up to a superior level
with four organic ingredients that work to support the G.I. tract and mental
health, which addresses the important brain-gut connection. Here’s how:
·Our Organic Inulin is
sourced from Jerusalem Artichoke, known to be high in potassium, iron,
essential amino acids and protein.2 Organic Inulin is soluble so it
dissolves in the stomach and forms a gelatinous substance that helps slow
digestion to allow better nutrient absorption and a slow release of sugar. This
slower digestion promotes healthy blood sugar levels. Organic Inulin aids
digestion by helping to increase good bacteria in the gut and stimulating the
immune system.3
·Organic Rhodiola rosea
has been used in China and Siberia for thousands of years to help soothe, calm and
relax people who are stressed, depressed or fatigued. Research shows it to have
a positive effect on cognitive health, including boosting memory and
concentration.4 Research also shows this adaptogen helps speed up
fat-burning cells when combined with exercise. 5
·Organic Ginger has
powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and is effective against
nausea and exercise-induced muscle discomforts. It helps empty the stomach more
quickly, which benefits people with indigestion and related issues. There is
some evidence that organic Ginger enhances working memory and reaction time,
helps inhibit the growth of bad oral bacteria and helps reduce LDL cholesterol
and blood triglyceride levels.6
·More than 600 health
benefits are attributed to Organic Turmeric, but in Lactoferrin 2.0™
, it works synergistically as a potent antioxidant with
anti-inflammatory properties. It helps promote brain health as well as
supporting the G.I. system.
1 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/healthy_aging/healthy_body/the-brain-gut-connection
2 http://www.chatelaine.com/health/diet/five-health-benefits-of-jerusalem-artichokes-sunchokes/
3 https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/top-inulin-benefits#overview1
4, 5 https://www.organicfacts.net/rhodiola-rosea.html
6 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger
