Annie Kanwar in BusinessWorld: Understanding the Gut–Brain Connection
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We’re delighted to share that Annie Kanwar, Founder of Functional Medicine International (FMI), contributed a guest column to BW Businessworld (Luxury Special) on “The Gut-Brain Connection.” You can read the original article here: https://www.businessworld.in/article/the-gut-brain-connection-578078 (external link)
What is the gut-brain connection?
Your gut and brain are in constant two-way communication through the nervous system (including the vagus nerve), immune signaling, hormones, and gut microbes. This is why digestive discomfort can show up alongside stress, low mood, poor sleep, brain fog, or cravings - and why supporting gut health often benefits overall well-being.
What can disrupt the gut-brain axis?
Modern life stacks the odds: irregular meals, ultra-processed foods, travel, stress, and inconsistent sleep can all alter digestion and the gut microbiome. When your gut environment changes, it may affect neurotransmitter-related signaling and inflammation pathways that also influence how you feel mentally and physically.
A practical “gut–brain friendly” daily routine.
These are simple steps you can start with and adjust based on your needs:
Build meals around protein + plants: This supports steadier energy and better satiety, and it’s often easier on digestion than random snacking.
Support digestion first, then optimize: If you’re dealing with bloating, irregularity, or reflux-like discomfort, start with basics (meal timing, chewing, hydration) before chasing trends.
Consider targeted microbiome support (when appropriate): Probiotics are one of the most common categories people explore for gut balance.
Hydrate smarter: Hydration can influence how you feel day-to-day, and many people like adding electrolytes when sweating, traveling, or feeling depleted.
Prioritize sleep to calm the loop: Better sleep supports stress resilience and can reduce the “wired-but-tired” cycle that often worsens digestion.
Add antioxidant support through food (and supplements if needed): Antioxidants are a common “daily resilience” category people use when they want to support overall balance.
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