Tag: MentalHealth

The gut-brain axis: Psychobiotic opportunity in 25 countries

Deep dive into probiotics and brain health. Published March 2022. 
The Gut-Brain Axis (GBX) is a research concept that has moved into the mainstream consciousness via mostly probiotic supplement makers that offer to alter the microbiota via probiotic supplementation which benefits brain health in some way. The scientific base is small but developing clinically, growing fast and boosted by the broader surge in microbiome study across a range of nutritional interventions that include probiotics.

Lumina reveals the evolution of ‘psychobiotics’ in 25 e-commerce markets from the brands winning the most loyal consumer engagement (and how), to the most innovative markets to business-ready scans of the e-tail environment, science, suppliers, regulations that shape the markets.


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Press the pedals & mess with your stress

Pic: Eliseo Hernández


Use your noggin: Moving meditation

Physiologists, neurologists and other scientists have explored and documented why exercise forms like bike riding are so beneficial for mental health: from mood-boosting cannabinoid and endorphin release to the proliferation of proteins like the onerously titled brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and wonderfully named compound, noggin – both of which promote brain cell growth and better cognitive fluidity (which can help reduce stress).

Cycling has also been shown to reduce levels of stress-inducing chemicals like cortisol and adrenaline.

More prosaic benefits include cardiovascular regulation, skill and goal attainment (which boosts confidence and can reduce stress) and communing with nature and other riders.

“Just cruising on your bike, feeling the wind, even the rain, hearing the birds and just trying to connect with the feelings of your legs pedalling will be of great help for boosting your mind,” says Luxembourg-based Delphine Dard-Pourrat, a behavioural economist, yoga teacher, cyclist and fellow Haute Route bike race ambassador.

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