Gut-Brain Axis and Diet: How Nutrition Shapes Brain Health and
the Microbiome (Recorded Webinar)

Presented by Nelson Gonzalez

Gut-Brain Axis and Diet: How Nutrition Shapes Brain Health and the Microbiome (Recorded Webinar)

12-Month Subscription

Unlimited access to:

  • Thousands of CE Courses
  • Patient Education
  • Home Exercise Program
  • And more
Video Runtime: 63 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 19 Minutes

This course is a recording of a previously hosted live webinar event. Polling and question submission features are not available for this recording. Format and structure may differ from those of standard Medbridge courses.

The connection between the gut–brain axis and brain health is one of the most groundbreaking discoveries in recent neuroscience, influencing everything from cognitive function to mood regulation. Yet many clinicians are unaware of how dietary habits and the timing of meals can shape the gut microbiome, impacting brain health and patient outcomes. This knowledge gap means that many patients are missing out on easy-to-implement strategies that could significantly improve their well-being.

In this essential webinar, you’ll learn how dietary choices—what to avoid and when to eat—can influence brain function and mental health. This knowledge will empower you to guide patients in making healthier decisions that can support cognitive function, mood, and overall brain health, especially for those dealing with stress or neurodegenerative conditions.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain practical, research-backed strategies that you can immediately incorporate into your practice. Whether you’re a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, nurse, or social worker, this webinar will equip you with the tools to make a real difference in your patients’ lives.

Learning Objectives
  • Identify key components of the gut–brain axis and explain their impact on brain health
  • Recognize the role of dietary habits in shaping the gut microbiome and influencing cognitive function
  • List practical strategies for guiding patients on what to avoid in their diet to support brain health and reduce stress
  • Compare the effects of meal timing on cognitive performance and stress management in patients
  • Recognize the impact of poor dietary choices on neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline
  • Highlight evidence-based approaches to improving patient outcomes through diet modification

Meet your instructor

A person smiling outside with big green leaves behind them, wearing a medbridge t-shirt.

Nelson Gonzalez

Nelson been an occupational therapy practitioner for more than 19 years, with an array of certifications and specialties, including rehabilitation fitness specialist, certified holistic health coach, certified cupping therapist, certified pediatric massage therapist, certified oncology rehabilitation expert, LSVT-BIG, and…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

Understanding the Gut–Brain Axis

1. Understanding the Gut–Brain Axis

This chapter provides an overview of the gut–brain axis and its essential role in maintaining brain health. It explores how the gut microbiome affects cognitive function, mood regulation, and neurological health. Learners will gain foundational knowledge on how the gut and brain communicate and on the importance of maintaining a balanced microbiome for optimal brain health.

The Impact of Diet on the Gut Microbiome and Cognitive Function

2. The Impact of Diet on the Gut Microbiome and Cognitive Function

In this chapter, we dive deeper into how specific dietary habits influence the gut microbiome and, in turn, cognitive function and emotional well-being. Key topics include how food choices like sugar, processed foods, and high-fat diets can alter microbiome composition, leading to stress and cognitive decline. Practical strategies will be provided to help clinicians advise patients on what to avoid to maintain brain health and manage stress.

Meal Timing and Its Impact on Cognitive Function and Stress Management

3. Meal Timing and Its Impact on Cognitive Function and Stress Management

This chapter focuses on the timing of meals and its significant impact on cognitive function and stress regulation. Learners will explore the science behind meal timing and how it can affect energy levels, mental clarity, and stress responses. Practical approaches will be discussed to help clinicians implement meal timing strategies in patient care, enhancing brain health and improving overall well-being.

Question and Answer Session

4. Question and Answer Session

This chapter is a viewer-submitted question and answer session facilitated by Nelson Gonzalez.