Mental health problems like anxiety and depression might seem like they stem entirely from the mind—they’re called “mental” health problems, after all. But another part of your body—your gut—might be contributing to problems like anxiety and depression. And the connection between your gut and your brain goes both ways—your emotions can cause symptoms that you experience in your gut.

“There is a direct connection between the gut and the brain, so people who have anxiety and depression might also have gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation when their mood is not stabilized,

Smart food choices help keep your gut healthy

A poor diet can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome—the healthy bacteria that live in your digestive system. That unhealthy microbiome, in turn, can lead to imbalances that trigger mental health problems, fatigue, and mind fog. “A good diet can create balance and help keep your symptoms at bay,” Dr. Puthenveetil said.

To keep your microbiome strong and support its connection with your brain, try a plant-based diet. “Try to eat as colorfully as possible. Focus on fruits and vegetables that are in season—they provide important phytonutrients..

• Variety
• As much fresh food as possible
• Little or no highly processed food and fast food
• Lots of fruits and vegetables

Keeping your gut healthy can help it send the right signals to your brain so you can get control over your mental health problems. “It’s extremely important to try and clean up our diets and make this a cornerstone of our health. Food is medicine and can be used to help prevent and treat a number of disorders,”