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Beating the Post-Holiday Blues: How Your Gut and Brain Work Together

Writer's picture: Jacintha RoemerJacintha Roemer

Exploring the Connection Between Brain and Gut Health with Dr. Jaz
Exploring the Connection Between Brain and Gut Health with Dr. Jaz

As the holiday season wraps up, many people find themselves feeling down. Whether it’s the return to routines, less sunlight, or lingering stress, post-holiday depression is a real challenge. But there’s good news: the connection between your gut and brain—known as the gut-brain axis—could offer some clues to help you feel better, not just now, but all year long.


Let’s dive into how your “second brain” (your gut!) plays a role in mental health and how simple changes in your diet can support your mood.


"The Second Brain"
"The Second Brain"

Your Gut: The "Second Brain"

The gut is often called the "second brain" because it produces about 95% of the serotonin in your body. Serotonin is a chemical that helps regulate your mood—something many of us feel out of balance after the holidays. Certain bacteria in your gut, like Lactobacillus and Clostridia, help your gut produce serotonin, which then communicates with your brain through a nerve called the Vagus nerve.

When your gut microbiome—the collection of trillions of bacteria in your digestive system—is out of balance, it can affect how much serotonin is made. This imbalance, called dysbiosis, has been linked to depression and may explain why some of us feel mentally and emotionally off after the holiday season.


Inflammation and the Post-Holiday Diet

The holidays often bring indulgent treats, rich foods, and less-than-ideal eating habits. While delicious, this kind of eating can promote inflammation in the body and disrupt the balance of your gut bacteria. This inflammation might be one reason some people experience "holiday hangovers" that linger long after the decorations are packed away.

In fact, studies show that people with depression often have higher levels of inflammatory markers, like IL-6. Eating a diet low in fiber and high in processed foods, common during holiday celebrations, can worsen this inflammation and reduce the diversity of healthy bacteria in your gut.


Fiber: A Simple, Year-Round Solution

Feeling a bit off after the holidays? One way to bounce back is to load up on fiber-rich foods. Fiber acts as food for the good bacteria in your gut, helping them thrive. These bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have anti-inflammatory effects and may even boost serotonin production.

Research shows that women with depression tend to eat less fiber and have fewer SCFAs than women without depression. By adding more fiber-rich foods—like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes—you can help create a healthier gut environment, which may positively impact your mood.


Probiotics and Prebiotics to the Rescue

Yogurt, Kimchi, Kombucha
Yogurt, Kimchi, Kombucha

Another way to support your gut and brain after the holidays is by adding probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (food for these bacteria) to your diet. Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and kombucha, may improve how your brain cells communicate and even help grow new connections in your brain. Prebiotics, found in foods like garlic, onions, and bananas, help feed the good bacteria in your gut.

These simple dietary changes can help reset your gut after holiday indulgences and provide long-term support for your mental health.


A Holistic Approach to the Blues

Whether it’s post-holiday depression or low moods at any time of year, supporting your gut health can be a powerful tool in your mental health toolkit. However, it’s not a stand-alone solution. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are still important for managing depression.


As you move forward, consider nourishing your gut with fiber-rich and fermented foods to promote balance and diversity in your microbiome. By taking care of your “second brain,” you’re not only supporting your mood after the holidays but laying the foundation for better mental health all year round.


Explore your body's needs by scheduling a Wellness Consultation with Dr. Jaz. Gain insights into how Traditional Chinese Medicine and dietary adjustments can enhance your digestive health.

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©2025 JazHands Acupuncture & Massage.

Disclaimer:
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any medical conditions or concerns. Results may vary from person to person. Acupuncture and other services offered are not a substitute for Western medical care but can be complementary to your overall health plan.

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