Kiran Krishnan is a Research Microbiologist and has been involved in the dietary supplement and nutrition market for the past seventeen years. He comes from a strict research background having spent several years with hands-on R&D in the fields of molecular medicine and microbiology at the University of Iowa.  Most recently, Kiran is acting as the Chief Scientific Officer at Physician’s Exclusive, LLC. and Microbiome Labs. He is currently involved in nine novel human clinical trials on probiotics and the human microbiome.

Today’s episode’s sponsor is Microbiome Labs.  For the last 9 years, Microbiome Labs has been committed to advancing understanding of the human microbiome. They are at the helm of innovation, putting new formulations and technology in the hands of healthcare practitioners and patients.

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Back to the show!

In this episode, Kiran talks about the relationship between the gut microbiome and the brain as well as the emotions.  He explains that the gut is really the “other brain.” In fact, he says the gut and the brain are two parts of the same system.

He says that the microbes in the gut feed the brain.  In addition, virtually every neurotransmitter in the brain is also produced in the gut.  If there is an imbalance in the gut, it is likely to be the same with the brain as they go hand in hand.  Interestingly, there’s more information going from gut to brain than brain to gut.

When there is an imbalance in the gut, this can drive mood, cognitive and even sleep issues.   He says a dysfunctional gut is also the most destructive and toxic thing for the brain.  It begins with a leaky gut as toxic substances escape the GI tract and cause damage to the brain.

Furthermore, Kiran says that the same pathology that causes mood and sleep issues can over time cause other brain issues like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Dementia.

Kiran offers some suggestions for creating more diversity in the gut: consume a probiotic, diversify the diet and spend more time in nature.  Just these three steps alone can make a big impact.

Kiran also talks about the power of Psychobiotics.  He explains that psychobiotics are a category of probiotic bacteria that have a direct impact on the brain.  He says “the perception of stress when you are on the probiotic [psychobiotic] is dramatically reduced.”  Kiran also sees a reduction in inflammation and even changes in brain waves.  

When it comes to finding your purpose and passion, Kiran offers this important question:  what is that thing you do that can enlighten, benefit or enhance the lives of others?

You can connect with Kiran on social media such as Instagram. 

And you can also learn more about psychobiotics and other products at Microbiome Labs.