Dr. Matthews talked at our Rotary meeting to tell us about his chiropractic work and his knowledge about bacteria that live within our bodies in a symbiotic relationship.
Dr. Matthews has been a Chiropractor since 1990 in Heber Springs, and has had a clinic here in Fairfield Bay in the past as well. Dr. Matthews is board certified by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board. He is also the author of a new book, The Symbiont Factor, which explores the ways that gut bacteria influence our health. Dr. Matthews lives in Drasco with his wife and son (and five dogs)! He has a daughter attending college in St Louis and a daughter attending the University of Maine.
During his talk to the FFB Rotary, he presented some concepts concerning how the human microbiome, our gut bacteria, influence our health and contribute to our function. The concepts discussed are central to his book, The Symbiont Factor, which is available as a paperback or ebook on Amazon. Dr. Matthews agreed to donate a copy of the book to the FFB Library.
He continued to explain how gut bacteria outnumber our human cells by ten to one, and their gene count exceeds that of our chromosomes by over 150 to 1. The gut bacterial microbiome is able to communicate with and influence the human host in a variety of ways. Communication can be established through the nerve endings that protrude into the contents of the intestines (these are called dendritic ends) and these messages can pass through the nerves to the brain. Gut bacteria can also produce neurotransmitter-like molecules that influence how our brain function and how our mind and emotions perform. Specific areas of the brain can be fine-tuned to affect everything from mood to appetite. This is a two way street, as mood affects gut bacteria as well. Being too stressed can cause the overgrowth of harmful species! Eating an unhealthy diet likewise feeds species of bacteria that can do us harm. Other causes of microbiome demise include pesticides, RoundUp, non-organic fruits and vegetables, prescription drugs, such as antibiotics, antibiotics in animals we consume, chlorine and fluoride in the water, and chronic inflammation. Gut bacterial imbalances affect the brain, immune system, hormones and digestion. A healthy diet, lifestyle, good probiotic supplements and an avoidance of these toxins are very important for good gut bacteria. Building and maintaining a healthy microbiome is a key to good health!
Dr. Matthews can be reached at: Dr. Richard Matthews 155 Timber Ridge Rd, Drasco, AR 72530, 501.206.5072 or email him at [email protected]