Fibre Fix Café lookback: Dr Rabia Topan & Isabelle’s workshop on nurturing your digestion & nervous system
During our Fibre Fix Café, guests heard from gastroenterologist, Dr Rabia Topan and our Head of Nutrition Science & Formulation, Isabelle Nunn, discuss the close relationship between the nervous system, nutrition, and whole-body wellbeing. Together, they revealed how our gut and brain communicate, and actionable ways to nourish both body and mind.
The nervous system & the gut-brain connection
Dr Rabia explained how our gut and brain are in constant conversation. When your nervous system is stressed, your digestion takes a hit. To help you find your calm, she shared simple practices to support your vagal tone using breathwork and music - you can download her simple nervous system meditations here.
Nourish your gut lining
Meanwhile, Isabelle broke down the literal building blocks of gut health, detailing the various macronutrients required for your gut lining and microbes. From fibre and healthy fats to antioxidant-rich polyphenols, the food we choose directly influences our mood, sleep, energy, and focus.
Nurture your gut’s circadian rhythm
A major takeaway was the importance of routine. Isabelle revealed that our gut microbes actually have their own internal circadian rhythm! Keeping consistent times for both eating and sleeping helps keep your microbiome in sync and functioning at its absolute best.
Take mindful moments to manage overwhelm
When life gets too loud, tuning into what you actually need is key. Isabelle and Dr Rabia shared their personal rituals for beating overwhelm:
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Isa’s go-to: Reset by spending time in nature and moving your body with friends.
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Dr Rabia’s go-to: Check in with yourself to see what your body actually needs, e.g. through a moment of reflection instead of automatically reaching for another coffee.
Dr Rabia's Spotify playlist here
Our other workshops:
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Fibre Fix Café lookback: Emma-Louise Boynton’s workshop on reconnecting with your body
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Fibre Fix Café lookback: Isabelle Nunn’s workshop on creating a weekly high-fibre lunch plan
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Fibre Fix Café lookback: Nicole Vignola’s workshop on trusting your instincts
