We often go through our day as if we are not actually alive in the present moment. We spend so much of our time thinking about the past or worrying about something in the future. Recent studies suggest that such chronic worry leads to three times greater chance of developing dementia.

Researchers at the University of South Carolina conducted a literature review of the data from 106 other studies, while citing 150 research projects in their publication.  From this massive amount of data, they developed what they call the Dietary Index for Gut Microbiota (DI-GM) It’s not complicated, and simply boils down to this: What you eat absolutely affects both your physical and mental health. Certain foods are very  beneficial to our gut biome. Others are harmful.

Because you can actively influence each of these five categories (unlike our inherited DNA, which we have zero control over), these will be five areas for you to personally take responsibility for to the best of your abilities and within your means. Even improving in just one category can have a profoundly positive impact on your life.

Exploring the hidden powers within our bodies and minds.

Unless it's used to solve a problem or accomplish a task, worry is a waste of time and energy. Like a rocking chair, it gives a sense of forward motion but gets you nowhere.