Explains the concept of the gut-brain axis, and its implications for health and disease. Describes how microbes and their metabolites communicate with the body and the brain. Explains how the microbiome-gut-brain axis influences the development of neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Describes how microbial metabolites regulate immune and metabolic pathways in the body, and how this may impact risk of allergies, autoimmune diseases, obesity and diabetes. Explains how the ecology of the oral microbiome impacts both gut and systemic health; discusses implications for modern-day oral healthcare. Lists potential microbial and gut health disruptors, as well as therapeutic strategies to improve gut and brain health (to become “ecosystem engineers”). Describes ways in which the highly complex gut-brain scientific research has been oversold and misinterpreted by the lay press. Identifies red flags of “pseudoscience” to become a healthy skeptic. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes.

Lists key nutritional factors that are essential for a healthy brain throughout the lifespan. Explains how inflammation can contribute to depression and other psychiatric disorders. Describes how poor gut health and an altered gut microbiota could lead to neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative consequences. Outlines the components of an anti-inflammatory diet to improve mental and cognitive health, as well as the strength of evidence to support the use of dietary supplements. Explains the link between stress and anxiety and food intake. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized to improve patient care and patient outcomes.

Outlines the homeostatic and hedonic pathways that interact to regulate food consumption. Describes the neurobiology of overeating, altered brain structures and changes in chemical signaling that contribute to impaired food regulation. Outlines the evidence that supports the concept of food addiction, as well as the opposing view. Lists factors that contribute to overeating: genetics, epigenetics, hyperpalatable foods, gut dysbiosis, stress, maternal and early life factors, circadian disruptions, etc. Outlines potential approaches to control overeating: abstinence models, dietary modifications, cognitive therapies, neuromodulation, microbial manipulation and bariatric surgery. Describes how the information in this course can be utilized across the disciplines to improve patient care and outcomes. Describes, for this course, the implications for dentistry, mental health, nursing, pharmacy, occupational and physical therapy treatment goals, and other healthcare professions.