Healing from the Inside Out: The Gut-Mind Connection interview with Jacqueline Stenhouse

Welcome to Transcending Trauma, where we explore holistic and evidence-based approaches to mind-body wellness. I’m Leigh Milne, a holistic psychologist dedicated to

Gut-Brain Axis - Body Mind Connection

integrating mind, body, and spirit in healing. On this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jacqueline Stenhouse, a naturopath, nutritionist, iridologist, and hair tissue mineral analysis practitioner. Our conversation revolved around the gut microbiome and its profound impact on physical and mental health.

What is the Gut Microbiome and Why Does It Matter?

Jacqueline explained that the gut microbiome consists of bacteria, fungi, and microorganisms that live within our digestive system. These microbial communities are not just responsible for digestion but also play a crucial role in immune function, metabolism, and mental health.

A balanced gut microbiome maintains the structural integrity of the digestive tract, supports the immune system, and helps prevent chronic illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even mood disorders. When imbalanced, it can lead to bloating, inflammation, and poor nutrient absorption, setting the stage for long-term health issues.

Beyond Digestion: The Gut-Brain Axis

One of the most fascinating insights Jacqueline shared was about the gut-brain connection. Many people don’t realize that the gut communicates directly with the brain through the gut-brain axis. The bacteria in our gut produce neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and cognitive function. Stress, poor diet, and lifestyle factors can disrupt this communication, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and even brain fog.

For individuals experiencing high levels of stress or struggling with trauma, maintaining a healthy gut becomes essential. Chronic stress can cause an imbalance in gut bacteria, triggering inflammation and further exacerbating mental health challenges.

Gut Health and Weight Management

Weight gain and bloating are common concerns, especially as we age. Jacqueline highlighted how hormonal changes during menopause and andropause can affect gut health. Hormone fluctuations can impact the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, leading to increased bloating, visceral fat accumulation, and sluggish metabolism.

One key takeaway from our conversation was the role of fiber in gut health. Fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial bacteria and promoting digestive health. Probiotic foods, including yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, can also help restore microbial balance and support digestion.

Lifestyle Changes for Optimal Gut Health

When it comes to gut health, small changes can make a significant impact. Jacqueline recommends the following simple yet effective steps:

1. Increase Fiber Intake: Most people do not consume enough fiber. Aim for 25-30 grams per day by incorporating flaxseeds, psyllium husk, and whole foods into your meals.

2. Hydration is Key: Drinking plenty of water supports gut motility and prevents constipation.

3. Choose Whole, Unprocessed Foods: Avoid processed foods and added sugars, which fuel bad bacteria and lead to gut inflammation.

4. Practice Mindful Eating: Eating in a relaxed state allows for better digestion and nutrient absorption.

5. Manage Stress: Engage in activities like meditation, deep breathing, or walking in nature to lower stress levels and support gut-brain health.

6. Get Quality Sleep: Disruptions in sleep patterns can alter gut bacteria and negatively affect metabolism.

Iridology: A Window into Gut Health

One of the unique aspects of Jacqueline’s practice is iridology—the study of the iris to identify health imbalances. Through iridology, Jacqueline can detect potential digestive issues, nutrient deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances before symptoms become severe.

For example, she often sees patterns in the iris that indicate pancreatic or liver dysfunction, which can correlate with food intolerances, poor digestion, and blood sugar irregularities. Addressing these early warning signs through dietary and lifestyle interventions can prevent more serious health issues down the line.

The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection in Healing

At Transcending Trauma, we emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to health. Healing the gut isn’t just about what we eat—it’s about how we live, think, and feel. The connection between gut health, mental wellbeing, and emotional resilience is undeniable.

By nurturing our gut with proper nutrition, managing stress, and fostering emotional balance, we create a foundation for overall wellness. This integrative approach is key for those on a healing journey, particularly individuals recovering from trauma, chronic illness, or mental health challenges.

Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with bloating, fatigue, mood swings, or unexplained weight gain, consider looking at your gut health as a starting point. Implementing small, sustainable changes can lead to profound improvements in both physical and mental well-being.

A big thank you to Jacqueline Stenhouse for sharing her invaluable insights on this episode. If you’d like to learn more about Jacqueline’s work, visit her website Healthy Alternative for consultations and more resources on natural health and nutrition.

For more episodes and blog posts, stay connected with Transcending Trauma. Until next time, remember—healing is a journey, not a destination.