When we think of hops we typically tend to think of beer. Hops have a lesser-known superpower than just giving beer it’s distinctive taste, it can be used to heal the gut and the brain.
A Funny Word with Healing Properties
Xanthohumol is derived from hops and can help heal the intestinal lining. It has polyphenols that are strongly anti-inflammatory for the gut. In the brain, it acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. When inflammation is decreased in the brain you have a better chance of avoiding neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, depression, autoimmune disease, and anxiety. Other benefits have been the ability to lower anxiety, stress, insomnia, metabolic syndrome, and memory loss. Xanthohumol has been shown to lower blood sugar and blood lipids like triglycerides. It also protects against cancer. You can find it as a hops blend just about anywhere but I recommend Inflavinoid or Inflavinoid IC by Metagenics. You can get it through our online store here. Dosage is 1-2 a day. Xanthohumol helps heal a leaky gut and a leaky brain.
A Tip Top Belly
Gut inflammation causes brain inflammation. In order to resolve gut inflammation, we start with removing foods and bugs that are harmful. This may be in the form of a modified elimination food plan and supplements that help remove bad bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The most common foods that irritate the intestinal lining are dairy products, grains, eggs, corn, nuts, soy, and sugar. Just removing these foods for a period of time can make a world of difference. Taking supplements like berberine, thyme and oregano can eliminate bad microbes. Replacing the good bacteria (probiotics) that are missing or out of balance is also important. Lastly, we make sure you have enough enzymes to digest your food. For the more comprehensive article on healing the gut, click here.
Heal the brain to heal the belly and heal the belly to heal the brain
Dr. Stacey