THEintestine and brain, two apparently distant organs, in reality deeply connected. So much so that the breaking of the balance of one can be reflected on the other, producing consequences on our physical and mental health. An example? Some pathologies traditionally considered “diseases of the brain”, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or depression, can also occur in the intestine. And, conversely, intestinal diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease, are also associated with nervous system disorders.
Word of Maria Rescigno, Italian scientist among the leading international experts on microbiota, professor of general pathology at Humanitas, where she directs the Unit of immunology of the mucous membranes and microbiota and is vice-rector with responsibility for research. She has long been focused on the study of the mechanisms that regulate the interaction between the mind and the intestine.
Appointment on June 13th
Author in 2020 of Microbiota, secret weapon of the immune system, now he’s in the bookstore with his latest essay, Brilliant microbiota (Vallardi), a guide to modulate the microbiota thanks to probiotics, postbiotics and fermented foods. And thus protect us from many neurological diseases. The book will be presented by the author in Chieri (Turin) tomorrow, 13 June at the Accademia Vergnano headquarters during the next charity evening-dinner of the Women Cookbook Club.
Rescigno’s thesis is, moreover, fascinating. Today science is demonstrating the existence of an “axis of connection between the intestine and the brain”, which is regulated by the intestinal microbiota, i.e. those billions of microorganisms that live in our body.
The practical consequence, explains the scientist, is that we can take care of the health of our intestines to heal the mind. And, conversely, that it is possible to prevent brain diseases, from anxiety to depression to mood disorders, with diet. Preserving a healthy intestinal barrier. By following some rules. The first of all: reduce as much as possible the consumption of animal-derived fats, such as those contained in red meats and fatty cheeses. Following as much as possible the dictates of the true Mediterranean diet, a concentrate of beneficial substances for the microbiota: seasonal vegetables and fruit, whole grains combined with legumes, dried nuts, extra virgin olive oil. Green light, then, to fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi or miso, which promote intestinal well-being.
Women Cookbook Club
The Women Cookbook Club is there social community founded by Angela Frendaeditorial manager of Cook. A community born online with the aim of sharing cookbooks written by women and which periodically meets during the dinner-presentations of the Women Suppers. On 13 June, therefore, an appointment in Chieri with Maria Rescigno and Angela Frenda. The proceeds of the eveninglike the previous Cookbook Club appointments at the Accademia Vergnano, will be donated to «Women in Coffee», the project developed by the Piedmont roastery to help women coffee producers.
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