Brain Maker summary

When an insect bites you, often the skin around the bite gets red and may itch. This redness is called inflammation; a process the body sets in motion to protect you and keep you healthy.

Yet sometimes inflammation can get out of control and actually be harmful.

Did you know that your brain and your gut are actually connected? If your gut microbiome is imbalanced to the point where it no longer is assisting the immune system in protecting the body, your brain could be in peril, too.

Your gut is mostly busy absorbing nutrients from food during the day. While it’s performing this task, it must be protected from potential pathogens that could harm you. As a means of defense, the gut has a protective layer of cells that are responsible not only for absorbing nutrients but also for blocking harmful bacteria.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a perplexing condition. Scientists still don’t know what causes it, and while many therapies attempt to address ASD symptoms, there’s no known cure.

Examining the gut microbiome, however, may help us to better understand and treat ASD.

It’s hard to say no to the delicious taste of sugar. Yet a particular type of sugar, called fructose, is today ubiquitous in prepared foods and drinks – and is wreaking havoc with our health.

Fructose, found in processed and sweetened foods like soda and candy, is one of the most consumed sources of calories in Western nations.

In 1928, Scottish biologist Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin. One of the most important breakthroughs of the twentieth century, Fleming’s discovery ushered in the era of antibiotics.

Unquestionably, the use of antibiotics has saved many lives. Yet today we take too many antibiotics, and in doing so, we’re compromising both our gut microbiome and our overall health.

What do wine, yogurt, sauerkraut and black tea have in common? They’re all fermented food products.

Humans have benefited from the process of fermentation in food for some 7,000 years, and nearly every culture has some kind of traditional fermented dish or drink. It’s no surprise, as fermented foods are often good for your health.

Do you enjoy a spicy curry? Good for you if you do, as this means the yellow spice, turmeric, is already part of your diet.

Turmeric is a popular Chinese and Indian seasoning that is often a component of curry powder, giving it a distinctive yellow color. But it’s more than just a spice – turmeric is also good for your body.