A Gut-Brain Link
There is now a strong understanding of how our gut health influences our mood and brain function.  So therefore, it also corresponds that our gut will influence our experience of pain through its influence on the brain.  

As the gut microbiome is responsible for producing a large amount of our serotonin and GABA, a healthy microbiome is important.  These neurotransmitters act as a handbrake on pain signals, so low levels not only stop pain inhibition, they also contribute to sleep disturbances, low mood and anxiety associated with chronic pain.

Both serotonin and GABA interact with the brain via the vagus nerve; the ‘Master Nerve’ that carries sensory information from many organs and the central abdomen.  It is our vagus nerve that is also involved in the fight or flight response, and when it is overworked through chronic stress it can further influence our pain signalling.  

Furthermore, the microbiome in the gut has a great influence on the immune system, regulating inflammation that can turn acute pain into chronic pain if our inflammatory response is left un-checked.

Research has shown that those with poor gut health, stress and mental health issues such as anxiety or depression are more likely to experience ongoing, chronic pain.  

Pain Management
There are a number of different pathways that we can target to naturally assist with managing chronic pain.  

Traditionally we might first go to herbs and nutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties to calm our immune system.  Turmeric or curcumin, along with Omega-3 fatty acids are useful in this area.  As both these options have interactions with some medications, Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is another option with minimal side effects that has shown to reduce pain in both acute and chronic pain conditions.

General support of the gut microbiome and gut integrity may also help to reduce pain through their influence on both neurological signalling and inflammatory pathways.  Probiotics with Lactobacillus strains have shown beneficial effects in pain associated with osteoarthritis and endometriosis.  Supplementing short chain fatty acids such as butyrate may also help to reduce inflammation and calm neural pathways for pain. 

As explained previously, neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA act as a handbrake in the brain for pain signalling.  Therefore, we can supplement with things like 5-HTP, vitamin B6 or magnesium to support levels of serotonin and GABA; particularly if you are experiencing a change in mood alongside pain symptoms.  5-HTP has shown to be particularly useful for fibromyalgic pain. Ensuring light exercise, adequate sleep and stress management are included in your daily routine can also support healthy neurotransmitter levels.

If pain is interfering with sleep, this can create a cycle that exacerbates chronic pain.  Therefore pain management in terms of sleep assistance can help to break this cycle.  Think about supplementing in the evenings with magnesium, passionflower, tart cherry or L-Theanine to assist with sleep.

Often people also find a topical treatment for pain is also helpful.  We have a range of creams, balms and massage oils which can be rubbed onto specific painful areas to provide temporary relief of pain.

If you are continuing to experience pain daily, come have a chat with us in store to explore ways to naturally manage your pain.

Article supplied by Claire George, one of our staff Naturopaths. Claire is available for neuro integration treatment and naturopathic support appointments at our shop clinic on Mondays and Tuesdays.  See www.headfirsthealth.co.nz for more information.