New research suggests that your thoughts might be more powerful than you think – especially when it comes to your gut.
Meditation doesn’t just relax your mind. It could also be reshaping your microbiome in ways that science is only beginning to understand.
Meditation reshapes your gut bacteria
Advanced meditation has been shown to significantly alter the gut microbiota.
Participants in a meditation retreat developed a healthier bacterial balance that lasted for at least three months after the retreat ended.
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A calm mind reduces gut inflammation
When stress levels drop due to meditation, inflammation in the body – especially the digestive tract – also decreases.
This promotes better immune function and healthier digestion.
It may lower your heart disease risk
Meditation has been linked to reduced blood lipid levels, which are associated with atherosclerosis.
This suggests a surprising connection between gut health, stress reduction, and heart protection.
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Your gut makes happiness hormones
The gut microbiome plays a key role in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA.
By promoting a balanced microbiome, meditation helps support mental well-being from the inside out.
Long-term meditation changes your microbiome
In Tibetan Buddhist monks who meditate daily, researchers discovered a unique gut flora.
These bacteria appeared to have anti-inflammatory properties that could protect against mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
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Meditation boosts anti-inflammatory molecules
After intensive meditation retreats, participants showed increased levels of acylglycines in their blood.
These compounds naturally reduce inflammation and pain – acting like internal mood boosters.
Mindfulness may prevent leaky gut
Chronic stress weakens the intestinal wall, allowing harmful substances into the bloodstream.
Meditation helps reinforce the gut barrier by reducing this stress, keeping unwanted toxins out.
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It supports better digestion
By activating the parasympathetic nervous system – the “rest and digest” mod – meditation enhances gut motility.
This leads to smoother digestion and better nutrient absorption.
Your brain and gut talk all the time
The gut-brain axis is a two-way communication channel.
Meditation influences brain activity, which in turn affects signals sent to the gut, creating a feedback loop of improved wellness.
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A vegan diet enhances meditation’s effects
Before certain retreats, participants followed a strict vegan, raw-heavy diet for over two months.
This prepped their gut environment, helping meditation work more effectively and deeply on their health.
This article is based on information from News-Medical.net.