Here you will learn the connection to of the gut microbiome, neurodeveloment, neurogenisis, nervous system, gut homeostasis, nervous system, microglia, myelination, epithelial stem cells. The gut microbiome plays an essential role in various processes of brain development such as neurogenesis, myelination (protective layer around nerves), microglial maturation, development and maintenance of blood-brain barrier integrity, development of HPA-axis, and HPA-axis stress response. The gut has a direct neural connection with the brain through the vagus nerve, and bacteria can stimulate the afferent neurons of the ENS [10]. Disorders of the microbiota gut-brain axis are associated with depression, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, CNS diseases and other diseases. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5581153/ The microbiota–gut–brain axis in epilepsy. Unhealthy, bad, pathogenic gut microbiota could upregulate the production of epilepsy-promoting metabolites, the secretion of inflammatory factors, which can lead to abnormal GABA/Glutamate ratio and then induce epileptic episodes and the progression of epilepsy. Chronic stress to the gut microbiome from toxic foods, sugar, high levels of glutamate in the diet, heavy metals, pesticides, GMO's, processed foods, preservatives, food dyes, antibiotics, head injury, internalized stress, gut infections these all may be a trigger for this process. Healthy gut microbiota could produce good metabolites, such as SCFAs and serotonin, which could inhibit the occurrence of epilepsy. HPA axis, Enteric Nervous System, and vagus nervous system are also involved in the interaction between gut microbiota and epilepsy. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8542678/ The vital role of the intestines as the main site for the digestion and absorption of nutrients for the body continues subconsciously throughout one’s lifetime, but underneath all the complex processes lie the intestinal stem cells and the gut microbiota that work together to maintain the intestinal epithelium. Intestinal stem cells (ISC) are multipotent stem cells from which all intestinal epithelial cells originate, and the gut microbiota refers to the abundant collection of various microorganisms that reside in the gastrointestinal tract. Both reside in the intestines and have many mechanisms and pathways in place with the ultimate goal of co-managing human gastrointestinal tract homeostasis. Based on the abundance of research that is focused on either of these two topics, this suggests that there are many methods by which both players affect one another. Therefore studies are showing a key relationship between ISC and the gut microbiota in the context of regenerative medicine. Understanding the principles behind both aspects is therefore essential in further studies in the field of regenerative medicine by making use of the underlying designed mechanisms. Recent studies showed that food with high lipid content induces robust Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR-δ) activation in ISCs, thus enhancing the numbers of mitotically active stem cells in the intestine Increase Stem Cells Naturally is a vital topic for those seeking to rejuvenate their body's healing abilities. Aging leads to a decrease in stem cells, but natural methods can help boost their production, aiding in health and longevity. Foods high in good fats include Healthy Vegetable Oils (such as Olive and Avocado), Nuts, Seeds, and Fish. Eating plant foods high in monounsaturated fats, particularly extra virgin olive oil and tree nuts. Other healthy dietary fats include: Walnuts, Flaxseed, Chia Seeds, Pumpkin Seeds, Avocados, Olives, Cold Pressed EV Olive Oil, Wild Caught Fish, Chia seed, Organic Free Range Eggs, Grass Fed or Organic Butter, Coconut and coconut oil even MCT Oil, Nut Butters. Extensive studies have demonstrated that (1) Amino Acids play important roles in maintaining Intestinal Epithelial Cells growth, structure, homeostasis, and functions; (2) Amino acids regulate the intestinal epithelial barrier structure and functions; (3) Amino acids regulate the intestinal immunity functions; and (4) Amino acids supplementation has the potential to ameliorate the abnormalities/phenotypes associated with dysfunctional IECs, through restoring the properties (and functions) of IECs. These findings help further our understanding of the important roles of amino acids in the homeostasis of IECs and in maintaining the physiology of intestine, digestive system, and human body and could potentially help identify novel targets and reagents for therapeutic interventions of diseases associated with dysfunctional IECs. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2018/2819154/ For example, Amino Acid L-arginine through diet and supplementation improved intestinal mucosal immune function and maintained barrier integrity in response, improved responses to DSS-induced injury and inflammation (e.g., colonic permeability ↓, proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression ↓, wound repair capacity. Foods rich in L- Arginine are: Walnuts, Hazelnuts, Pecans, Almonds, Cashews, Brazil Nuts, Turkey, Pork loin, Chicken, Pumpkin Seeds, Spirulina. One way to improve Intestinal epithelial cell gut health is to ensure a nutrient-dense diet rich in Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium and Vitamins A, D, B and C found in a Therapeutic Multivitamin . Each of these micronutrients plays a critical role in maintaining the gut lining, lowering intestinal inflammation, keeping digestive juices flowing and helping the gut run smoothly. Enhance Epithelial Tissue Function with Trace Minerals such as Zinc, Manganese and Copper — improve gut integrity by strengthening the tight junctions in the intestine so bacteria won't leak out and settle into microfractures in the growth plates. Here are some products to consider for these trace minerals: Premier Research Labs Trace pH Minerals with Magnesium 180 mg,Chloride 620 mg,Sodium 20 mg,Potassium 20 mg,Sulfate 30 mg, Sulfur 18 mg, Lithium 740 mcg, Boron 270 mcg or Trace Minerals Concentrace Drops or Vital Earth Fulvic and Humic Plant Minerals. Strengthening the intestinal mucosal lining to absorb essential nutrients for a healthy immune system, neurotransmitter balance, hormones, nervous system function all requires a healthy whole foods organic diet and additionally specific nutritional supplements for a period of time for overall gut health, digestion, breakdown and absorption. A diet rich in short chain fatty acids from fibrous foods and healthy fats can support a robust and well balanced healthy gut Microbiome. Resistant dietary carbohydrates such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, green bananas, beans, and legumes, cashews are fermented to short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by the gut bacteria. Healthy gut bacteria feeds on these fermented short chain fatty acids and thrive under these conditions. It is crucial for a well balanced healthy GI Microbiome to have sufficient amounts of fiber and short chain fatty acids rich foods such as fruits, berries, veggies, whole grains, beans, legumes as well as Omega-3 fatty acids such as wild caught fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, chia and flax seeds to improve gut barrier integrity, glucose and lipid metabolism, regulate the immune system, balance the inflammatory responses and blood pressure, promote healthy metabolic and cardio functions. Several GI supportive supplements may improve your gut health, including Probiotics, Prebiotics Powder, Omega-3 fatty acids, Digestive enzymes, Licorice Root or DGL Plus with Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root, Aloe Vera Juice Preservative Free, IgG Immunoglobulin Powders, Vitamins C and E, Homemade Bone Broth no longer than 8 hours to prevent high glutamate. For those with epilepsy avoid L Glutamine and Store bought bone broths as these are high in glutamate. Incorporate effective strategies to enhance your body's natural Epithelial Stems Cells and Stem Cell production, promoting regeneration and improved well-being. ‍ How to Increase Stem Cells Naturally: To naturally increase stem cells, you should focus on following a healthy lifestyle which includes: 1. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume polyphenol-rich foods (berries, turmeric, decaffeinated green tea) and anti-inflammatory foods (tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, nuts like almonds and walnuts, fatty fish like salmon) to stimulate stem cell production​​​​​​. 2. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, improves cardiovascular health and encourages stem cells to become bone rather than fat​​​​​​. 3. Get Quality Sleep: Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is vital for the health and production of stem cells​​. 4. Intermittent Fasting or Caloric Restriction: Practices like intermittent fasting or caloric restriction can enhance autophagy, leading to increased stem cell production​​​​​​. Not for those who are stil developing and may have hypoglycemia. 5. Reduce Stress Levels: Managing stress through relaxation techniques helps in protecting and maintaining stem cells​​​​. 6. Stop all forms of Smoking and Reduce Alcohol Intake: Avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is beneficial for stem cell health​​. 7. Reduce Sugar Consumption: Lowering sugar intake can prevent the inhibition of stem cell proliferation, thereby enhancing their function​​​​. 8. Supplementation: Taking supplements such as high-quality Omega-3 fatty acids such as flax seeds, chia seeds, olives, wild caught salmon, Carlson Cod Liver Oil , Vitamin D3, and Resveratrol supports stem cell growth and activity​​. Key nutritional factors and GI absorption are essential in the development and preservation of the nervous system, vagus nerve and neurological function. Nutrients are essential for the formation of the Mylene Sheaths (Myelination) which protect the nerves of the nervous system. ‍Throughout early neurodevelopment, myelination helps provide the foundation for brain connectivity and supports the emergence of cognitive and behavioral functioning. Early life nutrition is an important and modifiable factor that can shape myelination and, consequently, cognitive outcomes. Myelination is formation of the myelin sheath around a nerve to allow for improved conduction. Nutritional deficiencies, such as Iron, Vitamin B12, and Folate/Methylfolate B9, have been associated with hypomyelination, altered myelin composition, or decreased myelin synthesis. These essential nutrients and many others are critical to protect the nerves and nervous system from damage and injury. Other important nutrients and foods for myelination are: B1, B5, Biotin, Vitamin D, and Omega-3 fatty acids, Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), AceytlCholine, Phosphatidylserine/PhosphotidylCholine, Copper, Quercetin, PQQ, BDNF, Ashwagandha, Lions Mane, Bacopa, Curcumin, Ginger, Resveratrol, Black Cumin Seed oil, Valerian Root, Saffron. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs), choline, iron, zinc, cholesterol, phospholipids, and sphingomyelin play essential roles in myelin elaboration, as key components of the myelin sheath and/or energy sources. Breastmilk is also an important source of cholesterol, which is essential for myelin synthesis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6540800/  https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/physical-medicine-rehabilitation/news/analyzing-the-role-of-diet-and-exercise-in-myelin-production/mac-20429394 The importance of understanding Microglia in Brain Health: Microglia cells are the immune cells of the central nervous system and consequently play important roles in brain infections and inflammation. Microglia are also involved in synaptic organization (the places where neurons connect and communicate with each other), trophic (nutritional) neuronal support during development, phagocytosis (phagocytic debris removal) of apoptotic cells (a cellular process for ingesting, recycling and eliminating particles larger than 0.5 μm in diameter, including microorganisms, foreign substances, and apoptotic cells in the developing brain), myelin turnover, control of neuronal excitability as well as brain protection and repair. Microglia play an important role in regulating the size of the neural precursor pool by promoting the differentiation of neural progenitors and/or maintaining their total number in the developing brain. The term neural precursor cells is commonly used to collectively describe the mixed population of NSCs and neural progenitor cells derived from embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. Precursor cells are stem cells that have developed to the stage where they are committed to forming a particular type of new blood cell. By dividing and differentiating, precursor cells give rise to the four major blood cell lineages: red cells, phagocytic cells, megakaryocytes, etc. Microglia respond to CNS injuries and diseases with complex reactions, often called “activation.” A pro-inflammatory phenotype (also called classical or M1 activation) Microglia activation is triggered by a plethora of well described subsets of immune receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) which are the important mediators of inflammatory pathways in the gut which play a major role in mediating the immune responses towards a wide variety of pathogen-derived anions, cations, and neutral molecules and link adaptive immunity with the innate immunity. Additionally scavenger receptors are found on monocytes, macrophages, hemocytes, B lymphocytes, capillary endothelial cells, platelets, and adipocytes (a cell specialized for the storage of fat, found in connective tissue), and numerous cytokine and chemokine receptors. Cytokines are small proteins that are crucial in controlling the growth and activity of other immune system cells and blood cells. When released, they signal the immune system to do its job. Cytokines affect the growth of all blood cells and other cells that help the body's immune and inflammation responses. Inflammatory cascades inducing a wide spectrum of cytokines can cause neuron degeneration, have neurotoxic effects on brain tissue, and lead to the development of seizures and other neurological disorders, even if they are subclinical and occur at birth. The activation by microglia can directly harm and damage the brain. Microglia release inflammatory cytokines that amplify the inflammatory response by activating and recruiting other cells to the brain lesion (trauma, injury, inflammation, infections, autoimmunity, malformations, gliomas, meningitis or any injury to brain tissue). In addition, microglia can release potent neurotoxins, which may cause neuronal damage. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8167938/ In recent years, many herbal plants and their active components have emerged and have been subjects of extensive research. These medications have been validated by traditional usage and are time-tested, as compared to modern day trendy supplements. The traditional herbal medicines with dependable ethnopharmacological properties have recently been demonstrated to possess neurotrophic and neuroprotective abilities, which can be useful in preventing various forms of neuronal cell loss in neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. During the last two decades, several ingredients from natural products have been tested for their inhibitory actions on neuroinflammation and used as aids to improve memory, treat neurodegenerative diseases or create favorable effects on the CNS. Numerous botanicals have been shown to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, which may protect the brain from inflammatory damage. Increasing evidence suggests that traditional herbal extracts possess neuroprotective benefits through distinct and multiple mechanisms, including anti-inflammation. Consuming a diet rich in flavonoids and non-flavonoid bioactives such as strawberries, blueberries, Curucumin, Resveratrol, EGCG (decaffeinated), Ginger, Gastrodia elata Blume (GE) and Omega-3 PUFAs DHA, Docosahexaenoic Acid; EPA, Eicosapentaenoic Acid; PUFA, Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid can inhibit microglia and thereby reduce neuroinflammation and have anti-neuroinflammatory properties, suggesting their importance as a potent therapeutic agent for treating neuroinflammatory diseases. Blueberries are flowering plants of the genus Vaccinium. Blueberries have a diverse range of micronutrients, with notably high levels of the essential dietary mineral manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K and dietary fiber. Blueberries contain anthocyanins, other antioxidant pigments, and various phytochemicals that may reduce the risks of inflammatory disease and certain cancers. The potentially beneficial nutrients with a protective effect on the Nervous System function include Amino Acids the building blocks of protein (Tryptophan, Phenylalanine, Tyrosine, Taurine, L-arginine), Glucose and Vitamins C, E, D and beta-Carotene, B group Vitamins (Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B4, Vitamin B1) and Minerals (Selenium, Zinc, Magnesium, Sodium, Iron, Copper, manganese, Iodine). The presence of nutritional antioxidants in the diet protects against oxidative damage to nervous system cells. Biochemical data indicate that polyunsaturated fatty acids such as Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) as structural components of the nervous system play a key role in its function. The nutrition of the entire body also influences the production of neurotransmitters in the brain. A diet without an appropriate supply of protein, mineral nutrients or vitamins may result in a failure to form appropriately balanced numbers of neurotransmitters, which, as a result, may lead to neurotransmission dysfunction. This is the reason why proper nutrition is based on vegetables, fruits, whole-grains supplemented with products providing full-value protein (dairy products, fish, lean meat) and high-quality fat products (vegetable oils, fish fats). The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and a complex network of nerves. This system sends messages back and forth between the brain and the body. The brain is what controls all the body's functions. The spinal cord runs from the brain down through the back. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/brain-nervous-system.html# Vitamins Folic acid and folate (Vitamin B-9) is a necessary regulator of CNS development and can be found in a wide variety of plant and animal foods such as dark green leafy vegetables (turnip greens, spinach, romaine lettuce, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, broccoli), beans, nuts, sunflower seeds, fresh fruits, fruit juices, whole grains, liver, aquatic foods. Nerves communicate with each other via chemicals built from Amino Acids called neurotransmitters. Eating adequate protein from a variety of sources will ensure the body gets all of the different Amino Acids that are so important for central nervous system function. https://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/an-introduction-to-nutrition/s07-03-nutrients-are-essential-for-or.html# Nuts, seeds, beans and other animal foods are all high in protein. A Prebiotic Fiber Powder is one way to increase proteins to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal on a daily basis. The take away here is food can truly become ones medicine if one is ready to step into the field of nautral healing and understanding the bodies intricate design and function and what it needs to maintain homeostasis, while trying to prevent any disease state and or progression of disorders. If you are interested in working with Krista Zweers at Nourish Revive Thrive - Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Education and Counseling. Please visit www.NourishReviveThrive.net, subscribe by signing up via your email, and visit the Holistic Nutrition Counseling Programs page to learn more. If you have decided you are ready to fuel your or your loved ones body with the the nutrition it needs to thrive and need by guidance and support reach out via email at are the nutrition it needs to thrive, reach out via email at nourishrevivethrive@gmail.com Ask me about signing up with FullScript Online Neutraceuticals Store to help get you set up with the right nutrient support with a 15-20% discount off safe, practitioner trusted, third party tested therapeutic grade nutritional supplements. Note- Many of the products featured here are from partners who may compensate Nourish Revive Thrive - Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Education and Counseling. with love, light and healing, Krista Zweers

Macronutrients, micronutrients, and vitamins/cofactors that are particularly important for the developing brain.  These include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, cholesterol, fiber, and water. Key nutrients for brain development: While all nutrients are important for brain growth and functioning, some play a bigger role in early brain development than others. The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition recommends certain nutrients for healthy brain development in toddlers: • PhosphatidylCholine • B Vitamins • Folate (methylfolate, B9) • Iodine • Iron • Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acids • Protein-plant based as well • Vitamins A • Zinc • Lutein  • Omega 3 Rich Foods • DHA / EPA • Omega-3- Cod Liver Oil  • Vitamin D  • BDNF Keep in mind mitochondria need B1, B2 vitamins plus additional nutrients. Many people under appreciate the importance of all B vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.  A Therapuetic Grade Multivitamin can help support these essential vitamins and nutrients.   While the frontal lobe controls movement, the cerebellum “fine-tunes” this movement. This area of the brain is responsible for fine motor movement, balance, and the brain's ability to determine limb position. Nutrients Essential for the Cerebellum: When it comes to brain health, focus on the three B's: vitamins B6, B12, and B9 (folate). “These three types of B vitamins are necessary for the brain's normal functioning,” says Dr. Agarwal, “and any deficiency in them may increase the risk of memory loss and other forms of cognitive decline.” Foods linked to better brainpower for the Cerebellum: • Green, leafy vegetables. Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, collards, and broccoli are rich in brain-healthy nutrients like vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene • Fatty fish • Berries • Green Tea and Organic coffee • Walnuts Fatty acids enhances adult hippocampal neurogenesis associated with cognitive and behavioral processes, promotes synaptic plasticity by increasing long-term potentiation and modulates synaptic protein expression to stimulate the dendritic arborization and new spines formation. Findings from preclinical studies have shown that extra virgin olive oil added to the diet of Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models enhanced the blood-brain barrier (BBB) function, reduced AD-related pathology, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, which collectively led to improved memory. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, and essential micronutrients forms the cornerstone of brain resilience, enabling the brain to form and reorganize neural pathways crucial for learning and memory. When it comes to brain health, focus on the three B's: vitamins B6, B12, and B9 (folate). These three types of B vitamins are necessary for the brain's normal functioning and any deficiency in them may increase the risk of memory loss and other forms of cognitive decline. Ataxia cerebellar dementia and leukoencephalopathy can result from vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause serious developmental regression, hypotonia and cerebral atrophy in infants. Vitamin D supplementation improves neuromuscular or neuroprotective function, which may in part explain the mechanism whereby vitamin D reduces falls and fractures. Vitamins of the B-complex group, particularly B1, B6, and B12, are the most important, followed by Vitamins A and E, which are involved in neuronal metabolism.  Both Vitamin E and Vitamin C have antioxidant roles. Vitamin D is now recognized as playing an important role in the central nervous system. Potassium is important for the nerves, muscles and heart to work properly. It also helps lower blood pressure. While it is important for us to have a balanced diet that supplies all the necessary minerals to keep our bodies functioning at an optimum level, certain minerals, such as iron and iodine, are vital at certain stages of our development to ensure that our brains and nervous systems develop normally. Lutein is a nutrient best known for its help maintaining eye health, though it may have other health benefits as well. It’s a carotenoid — compounds that give plants their color — found mainly in yellow and green fruits and vegetables. Foods With Lutein: • Kale. Kale's dark green color holds high amounts of nutrients, including impressive levels of lutein • Spinach. Loaded with iron, vitamin K, and magnesium, spinach is an all-in-one source of many essential vitamins and minerals • Romaine Lettuce • Non gmo Corn • Bell Peppers • Parsley • Pistachios • Eggs Healthy muscles and muscle strength need these nutrients: • Water • Protein from plants based proteins too • Calcium  • Magnesium  • Glutamine found in all sources of protein/amino acids  • Vitamin D  • Potassium • Carbohydrates-Healthy carbs  Can the cerebellum repair? Fortunately, some and full recovery is possible. It depends on the particular  situation and injury.  The key to healing any brain injury, including cerebellar injuries, is nutrients for the brain and to engage your brain's neuroplasticity. • Completing therapy exercises daily can promote improvements in your balance, coordination, and cognitive skills. • Movement creates brain derived neurotrophic factors, which is like fertilizer for the human brain. • Movement has been shown to help boost focus and creativity and even improve knowledge retention. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/04/080405165601.htm Add this key list of nutrients to focus on for your next shopping list!    If you are interested in working with Krista Zweers at Nourish Revive Thrive - Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Education and Counseling. Please visit www.NourishReviveThrive.net, subscribe by signing up via your email, and visit the Holistic Nutrition Counseling Programs page to learn more. If you have decided you are ready to fuel your or your loved ones body with the the nutrition it needs to thrive and need by guidance and support reach out via email at are the nutrition it needs to thrive, reach out via email at nourishrevivethrive@gmail.com Ask me about signing up with FullScript Online Neutraceuticals Store to help get you set up with the right nutrient support with a 15-20% discount off safe, practitioner trusted, third party tested therapeutic grade nutritional supplements. Note- Many of the products featured here are from partners who may compensate Nourish Revive Thrive - Holistic Nutrition and Lifestyle Education and Counseling. with love, light and healing, Krista Zweers