📸 Shocking Visual:

The gut-brain axis represents a fascinating example of how our body systems interconnect.

This communication pathway involves bidirectional signals between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, mediated primarily through neurotransmitters and hormones.

The gut produces about 90% of the body's serotonin, a key neurotransmitter that influences mood and feelings of happiness. It also generates GABA, which plays a role in managing feelings of fear and anxiety.

The connection goes beyond neurotransmitters; it includes the immune system, vagus nerve, and even the microbial populations in our gut.

The diversity and balance of gut microbiota can affect everything from our mental health to our physical well-being.

For instance, short-chain fatty acids produced by these microbes influence the integrity of the gut barrier and the immune response.

Understanding the gut-brain axis can help in recognizing the impact of diet and gut health on mental well-being.

It emphasizes why a balanced diet, rich in fiber and probiotics, can promote a healthier mind by fostering a healthier gut.

📽️ Workout Tips:

1. Hack squat tips for quads:

    

   • Lower foot stance on the pad to facilitate more knee flexion

   • Use a heel elevated shoe if ankle mobility limits you

   • Don’t crash out of the bottom position; control is key here

   • Put a leg extension/ham curl prior if knees are really sensitive

   • Add a pause in the stretch or utilise continuous tension to get more out of less

    

2. What is a GOOD Training Split?

    

   In this video, Dr. Mike Israetel talks about what a good training split look likes.

    

   Back with Chest, Legs with Shoulders or PPL? Dr. Mike clears all your doubts.

🔗 Useful Resources

1. Is coffee good for your heart health? 3 studies offer insights

    

   Studies on caffeine’s effects on heart health have gained interest in recent years. One crucial question remains: How much caffeine is too much?

    

   Some studies suggest that consuming caffeine may help boost vascular health and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, while others indicate that consuming too much may increase the risk of stroke.

    

   Read the full study here.

    

    

2. A weight loss mistake people make in their 40s:

    

   “Inaccurate diet plan.”

    

   10 tips to create a diet plan for weight loss in your 40s:

    

    

3. Thyroid dysfunction is a main cause of:

    

   • Fatigue

   • Weight gain

   • Dry skin & hair

    

   But it often goes undiagnosed for years.

    

   If you want to learn how to diagnose & fix thyroid issues, read this: