You might think your brain is up there doing its own thing—running the show, independent from the rest of your body. But noooo, it’s far from being a solo act. Your brain needs support from a very important partner—your stomach! The food you eat directly affects how your brain functions, whether it’s helping you stay sharp and energized or leaving you in a foggy, lethargic slump.
The truth is, the gut and brain are in constant communication. So when your diet is off, your brain feels it. This is why you might experience brain fog, fatigue, or a lack of energy that stops you from getting things done, whether it’s the mundane tasks like housework or pursuing those big goals like starting a business, moving up in your career, or finally booking that adventure holiday.
Let’s talk about the brain fog for a second. Ever wonder why you can’t think straight even after what you thought was a decent night’s sleep? You might have skipped the alcohol, only had a small kebab from the takeaway, and planned to be productive the next day—but instead, you wake up tired, sluggish, and a bit down about how things are going.
That’s the power of the gut-brain connection. Your brain relies on the nutrients you provide through your food, and when those nutrients are lacking or unbalanced, your brain can’t perform at its best.
The Gut-Brain Axis: A Two-Way Street
Your brain and stomach are connected by the vagus nerve, a key player in what scientists call the gut-brain axis. This connection means that what happens in your gut—whether good or bad—sends signals to your brain. If you’re eating nutrient-rich, whole foods that support gut health, your brain gets the message: We’re doing great, let’s fire up those neurons and stay sharp!
On the flip side, if your diet consists of processed junk, too much sugar, and excess alcohol, your gut will send distress signals to your brain: We’re in trouble here! This can lead to inflammation, fatigue, and yes, brain fog.
Your gut is also home to trillions of bacteria that play a critical role in how you feel, both mentally and physically. These bacteria, known as your microbiome, help regulate everything from digestion to mood. When the balance of bacteria is disrupted by poor diet, stress, or lack of sleep, it can trigger not just digestive issues but also anxiety, depression, and cognitive problems.
Taking Control: Fueling Your Brain Through Your Stomach
To get your brain working at its full potential, you need to feed your body the right fuel. You can’t build an empire, climb the career ladder, or trek through mountains if your brain is running on empty. And trust me, your brain isn’t going to step in and save you. If left to its own devices, it might just coast along, making excuses like, “You live, you die, body—it’s all up to you to figure out the middle part!”
So, where do you start?
The first step is acknowledging that your diet is the foundation of your mental and physical health. There’s no shortcut here. If you want a life full of adventure, purpose, and energy, you have to make a plan. You’ve got to be ready to shift your mindset and change what you’re putting into your body.
Step 1: Educate Yourself
Dive into the Chronicles and start learning about what’s truly beneficial for your brain and body. There’s no point in just reading—you’ve got to commit to making real changes. Start with the basics of nutrition: whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and veggies. Stay hydrated, too—dehydration is one of the easiest ways to make your brain feel sluggish.
Step 2: Set Goals and Create a Plan
Take some time to journal your goals (check out our blog “Planning the Future You” for tips on how to get started). Write down what you want to achieve and the steps you’ll take to get there. What are you eating now that might be holding you back? Are you consuming too much sugar, alcohol, or processed food? How can you replace those habits with healthier choices?
Step 3: Build Consistency
As with any habit, the key to success is consistency. Create a rule book for yourself. It’s time to cut back on the excess—whether it’s junk food, alcohol, or even recreational drugs. These all affect your gut and brain, keeping you stuck in a cycle of low energy, poor focus, and feeling generally unmotivated.
Before you know it, sticking to your new routine will become second nature, just like the routine of the most successful people—whether it’s Warren Buffet, Elon Musk, or your personal hero. Success is built on routine, discipline, and self-care, and your diet is a cornerstone of that.
How Food Affects Your Mental Health
Your brain and body aren’t just affected by the quantity of food you eat, but also the quality. Diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation, which affects brain function and mental health. Conversely, diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like those found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and antioxidants (from fruits and vegetables) help reduce inflammation, improving mood and cognitive performance.
Research also shows that certain nutrients—like magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins—play a crucial role in supporting mental health. These are often found in whole foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, rather than the processed snacks we often reach for.
Symbiosis in Action: Your Body and Brain as a Team
Once you start giving your stomach the right fuel, your brain will follow. You’ll find it easier to focus, your energy levels will rise, and you’ll have the mental clarity to pursue your goals. As you nurture your body and brain through better nutrition, you’ll stop wasting time feeling tired, unmotivated, or stuck in a fog. Instead, you’ll be building a strong foundation for the life you want.
