Gut-Brain Health
AT RE:HEALTH, WE TAKE AN INTEGRATIVE AND SCIENCE-DRIVEN APPROACH TO GUT-BRAIN HEALTH, RECOGNISING THAT WHAT HAPPENS IN THE GUT DOESN’T STAY IN THE GUT.
Your gut is often called your "second brain", and for good reason. Have you ever felt butterflies in your stomach when nervous or had a "gut feeling" about something? That’s the gut-brain connection in action—communicating through the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, and immune pathways.
When this connection is disrupted—due to inflammation, imbalanced gut bacteria, leaky gut, or chronic stress—it can lead to digestive discomfort, brain fog, mood imbalances, and fatigue.
If you're struggling with IBS, SIBO, food sensitivities, bloating, anxiety, or cognitive symptoms, we go beyond symptom management to uncover the root causes of gut-brain dysfunction, helping you restore balance and feel your best.
The Re:Health Approach
BEYOND SYSTEM MANAGEMENT
The gut does far more than digest food—it is a key regulator of brain function and mental well-being, and that the signalling is a two way street with messages passing from the brain to the gut and the gut to the brain. Research shows that gut imbalances can contribute to mood disorders, cognitive issues, and neuroinflammation, while chronic stress and brain inflammation can impair digestion and gut function.
Instead of treating these issues separately, we take a root-cause approach, identifying biochemical, digestive, and metabolic factors affecting both gut and brain health—allowing for targeted, personalised support that restores balance in both systems.
Key Areas We Assess & Support
MICROBIOME IMBALANCES & DYSBIOSIS
The gut microbiome plays a key role in producing serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, the neurotransmitters that regulate mood, focus, and emotional resilience. Disruptions in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can contribute to brain fog, anxiety, and depression.
LEAKY GUT & BRAIN BARRIER INTEGRITY
A weakened gut lining allows toxins and inflammatory proteins into the bloodstream, which can trigger immune activation, neuroinflammation, and mood disturbances.
SIBO (SMALL INTESTINAL BACTERIAL OVERGROWTH)
Excess bacteria in the small intestine can cause bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and brain fog, as well as nutrient malabsorption and inflammation.
NEUROTRANSMITTER PRODUCTION & GUT HEALTH
Over 90% of serotonin and 50% of dopamine are produced in the gut. Gut imbalances can disrupt neurotransmitter function, affecting mood, motivation, and mental clarity.
INFLAMMATION & IMMUNE ACTIVATION
Chronic gut inflammation can trigger neuroinflammation, leading to fatigue, memory issues, and mood instability.
BLOOD SUGAR & METABOLIC FUNCTION
Blood sugar fluctuations can impact gut motility and brain function, leading to energy crashes, irritability, and digestive discomfort.
FOOD SENSITIVITIES & INTOLERANCES
Foods that cause an inflammatory response can contribute to brain fog, mood swings, and digestive distress.
MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION & GUT-BRAIN ENERGY
Both the gut and brain require high amounts of cellular energy to function properly. Mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to fatigue, sluggish digestion, and poor concentration.
VAGUS NERVE FUNCTION & NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION
The vagus nerve controls gut motility, digestion, and emotional resilience. A poorly regulated vagus nerve can result in bloating, stress sensitivity, and sluggish digestion.
Advanced Functional Testing for Neurodivergent Conditions
We use comprehensive lab testing to move beyond guesswork and identify the root causes of gut-brain dysfunction. Read more about lab testing here
YOUR PERSONALISED GUT HEALTH PLAN
Using data-driven insights, we create a tailored programme designed to restore gut function, reduce neuroinflammation, and support overall mental clarity. This may include:
Personalised Nutrition Strategies – A targeted approach to support gut healing, neurotransmitter production, and energy balance.
Targeted Nutritional & Botanical Support – Using evidence-based probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and herbal antimicrobials to rebalance the microbiome and gut barrier.
Nervous System & Stress Resilience – Supporting vagus nerve stimulation, breathwork, and relaxation techniques to regulate the gut-brain connection.
Ongoing Monitoring & Refinements – Regular check-ins to assess progress and refine strategies based on your body’s unique needs.
A Science-Backed Approach to Restoring Gut-Brain Balance
If you're experiencing brain fog, anxiety, fatigue, or persistent digestive issues, our Functional Medicine approach provides a clear, personalised strategy to restore gut health and cognitive function.
Identify hidden gut imbalances affecting brain health
Support neurotransmitter production and gut-brain signalling
Reduce inflammation and enhance digestion for long-term wellness
Frequently asked questions
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How does nutrition impact mental health?Mental health is deeply connected to brain chemistry, gut health, and nutrient balance. We assess key neurotransmitters, blood sugar regulation, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies to support stable mood and emotional well-being.
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How long does it take to see results?Some clients notice improvements in weeks, while deeper imbalances may take 3–6 months to fully address. Our approach provides a step-by-step roadmap, supporting gradual and sustainable progress.
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Can you help with treatment-resistant depression or anxiety?Yes, we specialise in complex mental health cases, often working with clients who haven’t found success with conventional treatments. We dig deeper into underlying factors like gut health, methylation, histamine issues, and inflammation to create a personalised strategy.
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Do you replace medications, or can I work with you alongside my current treatment?We work alongside your existing treatment plan, complementing any medications with targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies. Our approach is root-cause-focused, aiming to improve long-term resilience and reduce dependency on medications where appropriate.
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What kind of testing do you do for mental health concerns?We offer genetic testing, organic acids testing, blood nutrient panels, and hormone assessments to look at neurotransmitter imbalances, methylation, inflammation, gut health, and nutrient status—all key factors in mental well-being.
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Do you support children or teens with mental health challenges?Yes - absolutely. Yes, we provide comprehensive support for teenagers and children experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, mood imbalances, and behavioural challenges. Our approach looks beyond symptoms to uncover underlying imbalances in brain chemistry, gut health, nutrient status, and hormone regulation. We recognise that mental health challenges in young people can be complex and often involve factors such as stress, diet, blood sugar imbalances, gut dysfunction, inflammation, and genetics. Through functional testing, personalised nutrition, and targeted supplementation, we create a holistic, evidence-based plan to support emotional well-being and resilience.
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Can you help if I (or a loved one) have already been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease?Yes, we work with individuals at all stages of cognitive decline. We use cutting-edge, evidence-based strategies—including the Bredesen ReCode protocol—to optimise brain function.
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What kind of testing do you offer for brain health concerns?We use a combination of functional tests, including blood work, hormone testing, organic acids, gut health assessments, and genetic analysis to identify potential drivers of cognitive issues such as inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic imbalances.
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How does nutrition impact brain health?Brain function is heavily influenced by diet, gut health, and nutrient status. We focus on optimising essential nutrients like omega-3s, B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants, while also addressing blood sugar balance, gut health, and inflammation.
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What treatments or strategies do you recommend for brain fog?Brain fog is often linked to gut health, nutrient imbalances, hormone imbalance, toxin exposure, or chronic inflammation. We take a personalised approach, identifying and addressing root causes while using targeted dietary, supplement, and lifestylestrategies to restore clarity and focus.
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Can you help with brain recovery after a head injury or Long COVID symptoms?Yes, we support post-concussion recovery and Long COVID-related brain symptoms by reducing neuroinflammation, supporting mitochondrial function, and optimising brain nutrient status. We use personalised nutrition, targeted supplementation, and functional lab testing to help rebuild brain resilience.
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Do you work with both children and adults with ADHD or autism?Yes! We support both children and adults, whether diagnosed or not, using a root-cause approach focused on nutrition, gut health, brain chemistry, and lifestyle strategies.
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Do I (or my child) need a formal diagnosis to work with you?No, a diagnosis is not necessary. We focus on identifying underlying imbalances and supporting brain function with a personalised approach.
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What kind of testing do you recommend for ADHD and autism?We often recommend nutrient panels, hair mineral analysis, organic acids testing, stool analysis, food sensitivity testing, and genetic assessments to uncover nutrient imbalances, gut issues, and brain chemistry factors.
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Do you offer drug-free support?Yes, while we do not replace medical treatment, our approach is holistic and non-medication-based, using nutrition, targeted supplements, and lifestyle interventions to support focus, mood, and behaviour.
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How long does it take to see improvements?Many clients see changes within weeks, but a full programme typically takes 3–6 months, depending on complexity. Long-term benefits come from consistent, personalised interventions.
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Do you support people with complex and chronic conditions, even if they’ve been told their symptoms are ‘unexplained’?Yes! Many of our clients have been through years of medical appointments without clear answers. We specialise in complex, chronic, and poorly understood conditions, including autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME), fibromyalgia, mould illness (CIRS), and other systemic imbalances. Our approach leaves no stone unturned, using advanced testing, personalised nutrition, and targeted interventions to get to the root of your symptoms.
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How do you approach autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, or Lupus?Autoimmune conditions are multi-factorial, meaning they don’t have a single cause. Our approach identifies and addresses key drivers such as: Gut health & intestinal permeability (leaky gut) Chronic infections or stealth pathogens Nutrient imbalances & inflammation Blood sugar regulation & metabolic health Environmental triggers (mould, toxins, heavy metals, food sensitivities) We create a personalised plan to calm the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support long-term remission where possible.
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What is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), and how do you test for it?CIRS is a multi-system, inflammatory condition triggered by mould, biotoxins, or other environmental exposures. It often leads to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, respiratory issues, and hormone imbalances. We use specialist testing to assess for CIRS, including: Genetic susceptibility (HLA-DR testing) Biotoxin markers (MMP-9, TGF-β1, C4a, VIP, ADH/Osmo tests) Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) testing We then guide you through a step-by-step protocol, including removing exposure, detoxification strategies, immune modulation, and nervous system support to help your body recover.
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I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) – can you help?Yes! CFS/ME is complex and often misunderstood, but we take a functional approach to uncover underlying drivers, including: Mitochondrial dysfunction (poor energy production at the cellular level) Viral reactivation & stealth infections (EBV, Lyme, etc.) Dysautonomia, POTS, and vagus nerve dysfunction Gut imbalances & microbiome dysfunction Hormonal dysregulation (adrenal fatigue, thyroid imbalances) Toxicity (mould, heavy metals, chemicals, or mycotoxins) We personalise a phased recovery plan, working at your body’s pace to restore energy, resilience, and nervous system balance.
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How does your approach to complex conditions differ from conventional medicine?Conventional medicine often focuses on suppressing symptoms with medications, whereas our approach seeks to understand why symptoms are happening in the first place. We take a systems biology perspective, looking at: Nutrient status & deficiencies Metabolic & mitochondrial function Gut health & immune balance Inflammation & nervous system regulation Detoxification pathways Instead of a one-size-fits-all treatment, we create a bespoke roadmap that is tailored to your unique health history, triggers, and biology.
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I’ve tried everything and still don’t feel better. Can your approach help when nothing else has worked?Yes! Many of our clients feel like they have “tried everything” but haven’t had a fully comprehensive, root-cause approach that looks at their genetics, immune function, gut health, toxins, infections, and metabolic function together. We help piece the puzzle together by using cutting-edge testing and a structured plan that goes beyond symptom management—helping you build long-term resilience and recovery.
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How long does it take to see results?This depends on the condition and how long you have been unwell. Some people see improvements within weeks, while deeper healing can take 3–12 months depending on the complexity. We focus on progress, not perfection, working in phases to gradually restore balance and function.
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Do you offer lab testing to identify what’s driving my condition?Yes! We use functional lab testing to gain deeper insights into your unique biochemistry. Depending on your symptoms, we may recommend: Comprehensive blood panels (to assess inflammation, immune function, and nutrient status) Gut microbiome testing (to detect dysbiosis, SIBO, or infections) Mitochondrial & metabolic testing (to assess energy production) Mycotoxin & CIRS testing (for mould-related illness) Hormone & adrenal assessments (including the DUTCH test) Genetic & methylation testing (to identify key biochemical pathways that may need support) Each test is selected based on your history and symptoms, ensuring a targeted and personalised approach.
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Can you help if I have multiple conditions at once?Absolutely. Many of our clients have overlapping conditions, such as: Autoimmune disease + chronic fatigue + gut issues Mould illness + neurological symptoms Long COVID + POTS/dysautonomia + mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) We specialise in complex, multi-system conditions, helping you to navigate your health journey with clarity and a clear plan.
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How does gut health impact the brain?The gut produces neurotransmitters and inflammatory markers that directly affect brain function. Issues like IBS, SIBO, and leaky gut can cause anxiety, depression, brain fog, and fatigue.
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What testing do you offer for gut health?We use stool analysis, SIBO breath tests, and organic acids testing to assess gut function.
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How long does gut healing take?Most clients see significant improvements within 3–6 months with a structured, root-cause approach.
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How do hormones impact brain function?Hormonal shifts can lead to brain fog, mood swings, anxiety, poor memory, and sleep issues. We assess and support oestrogen, progesterone, cortisol, thyroid function, and blood sugar balance to restore cognitive clarity.
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What tests do you offer for hormone-related brain symptoms?We use DUTCH hormone testing, thyroid panels, blood sugar markers, and micronutrient assessments to identify hormonal imbalances and nutrient deficiencies.
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Can you help with perimenopause and menopause symptoms?Yes! We support cognitive function, mood stability, sleep, and energy levels using personalised nutrition, supplements, and hormone-balancing strategies.
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Do you offer natural alternatives to HRT?We provide both HRT-supportive and natural approaches, depending on your preferences. We focus on phytoestrogens, adrenal support, and targeted nutrients to balance hormones naturally. We also work closely alongside a prescribing doctor who is able to personalise and prescribe body identical HRT as required.