This is such an interesting and eye-opening piece, Dr. Hunter. I’ve long been intrigued by the gut-brain connection, as I've had problems with a gut condition previously, but I hadn’t considered that our microbiome might directly inspire us to move. It makes intuitive sense after learning more about the gut-brain connection and mental health. Framing motivation not just as a psychological challenge but also as a physiological response mediated by fatty acid amides and the endocannabinoid system is both fascinating and hopeful. It opens the door to new ways of supporting exercise adherence that go beyond willpower or habit alone. I especially appreciate the reminder that joyful movement and a nourished gut aren’t separate goals but potentially part of the same loop. Thank you for sharing this! I love all the knowledge you bring to the health and wellness table.
It'll be exciting to see this line of research expand beyond physical activity into broader forms of motivation: creative work, daily planning, even getting through chores. Since these also rely on the brain's reward circuitry. There’s real potential here, especially for understanding states like anhedonia, where the drive to engage is diminished.
Gut–brain science might open up entirely new ways to support motivation. Exciting stuff :)
This is such an interesting and eye-opening piece, Dr. Hunter. I’ve long been intrigued by the gut-brain connection, as I've had problems with a gut condition previously, but I hadn’t considered that our microbiome might directly inspire us to move. It makes intuitive sense after learning more about the gut-brain connection and mental health. Framing motivation not just as a psychological challenge but also as a physiological response mediated by fatty acid amides and the endocannabinoid system is both fascinating and hopeful. It opens the door to new ways of supporting exercise adherence that go beyond willpower or habit alone. I especially appreciate the reminder that joyful movement and a nourished gut aren’t separate goals but potentially part of the same loop. Thank you for sharing this! I love all the knowledge you bring to the health and wellness table.
Morning Mike!
It'll be exciting to see this line of research expand beyond physical activity into broader forms of motivation: creative work, daily planning, even getting through chores. Since these also rely on the brain's reward circuitry. There’s real potential here, especially for understanding states like anhedonia, where the drive to engage is diminished.
Gut–brain science might open up entirely new ways to support motivation. Exciting stuff :)
Indeed a fascinating interplay! Another good reason to add to the list of why taking good care of the gut is essential for our wellbeing.