If you’ve ever had a “gut feeling,” it turns out that instinct isn’t just poetic — it’s biological. The gut and brain are connected through a complex network known as the gut-brain axis, which includes the vagus nerve, the enteric nervous system (often called your “second brain”), immune signaling pathways, and the trillions of microbes that make up your gut microbiome.
In fact, about 90–95% of the body’s serotonin — a neurotransmitter critical for mood, sleep, and digestion — is produced in the gut, not the brain. So when gut inflammation is present, it can influence the brain and nervous system in ways that trigger or intensify anxiety, depression, and other mood symptoms.
How Inflammation in the Gut Affects the Brain
When the gut lining becomes compromised — often called “leaky gut” — inflammatory molecules such as cytokines (including IL‑6, CRP, and TNF‑α) can leak into the bloodstream. These molecules may eventually reach the brain, disrupting neurotransmission and increasing stress hormone activity. This process, called neuroinflammation, has been strongly linked to:
- Generalized anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Brain fog
- Heightened stress responses
Large-scale research has confirmed that individuals with gut imbalances and chronic inflammation are at significantly higher risk for mood disorders.
Signs Your Anxiety May Be Rooted in Gut Inflammation
You might benefit from gut-focused care if you experience:
- Persistent bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea
- Sugar cravings or food sensitivities
- Fatigue, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating
- Skin rashes, joint pain, or headaches
- Long-term use of antibiotics, NSAIDs, or birth control
- Trouble sleeping or feeling “wired but tired”
How Functional Medicine Breaks the Inflammation-Anxiety Cycle
At Vizuri Health Center, we approach anxiety by looking at the root causes — starting with the gut. Our functional medicine protocols are designed to:
1. Uncover Underlying Imbalances
We use advanced testing to assess gut microbiome health, inflammation markers, food sensitivities, stress hormones, and neurotransmitter precursors.
2. Reduce Gut Inflammation
We personalize anti-inflammatory nutrition plans, eliminate triggering foods, and use nutrients like L-glutamine and zinc to restore gut barrier function.
3. Rebuild Microbiome Balance
Through targeted probiotics, prebiotic foods, and fermented options, we work to restore microbial diversity — a key player in mood regulation.
4. Support Brain and Nervous System Health
We support healthy neurotransmitter activity and nervous system resilience through nutrition, sleep support, and stress management tools.
Why This Approach Matters
Conventional solutions often overlook the role the gut plays in anxiety and mood symptoms. But when inflammation is addressed at its source, the results can be transformative — improving not only mental clarity and mood, but also digestion, energy, and overall resilience.
You Deserve to Feel Like Yourself Again
If you’re tired of battling anxiety, brain fog, or burnout, and you suspect your gut might be part of the story — we’re here to help. Vizuri Health Center is located in Williston, Vermont and proudly serves the greater Burlington area.
Call (802) 878-8330 or request your consultation online to start your journey to healing — from the inside out.