Did you know we are essentially more bacteria than human? – and the microbes in our guts are responsible for 90% of the messaging to our brain rather than brain to gut! Science is beginning to catch up to the crucial impact our gut microbes have on our digestion, overall health and mental well being. In the last few years huge advancements in technology used to measure and detect the microbes that live on and in us has allowed researchers to map and track the diversity and the influence these invisible hitch-hikers have on every human being.
The progress in this field of researching the gut brain axis (how the gut is connected to and messages the brain) is changing the way we view health and disease and ultimately paving the way to treat and prevent a host of ailments.

In this ‘journey to the centre of your guts’ you will

• learn how the human body is colonised by both friendly and pathogenic bacteria
• find out how gut microbes combined with our diet have a profound effect on our immunity and inflammatory markers
• see why consuming fermented foods regularly can improve overall health.
• discover what impact the type of foods and lifestyles have on our internal colonies.
• hear about what the research, (using animal models and more recently dietary interventions in humans)over the past decade has discovered with regard to behaviour patterns such as social interaction and stress management, cognitive functioning and possibly mental health.

This lecture will be co-facilitated by Stephanie Rea (BSc Nutr. Biol) & Wendy Muller (Masters Community Psychology) Both presenters have many years experience working in the community in WA to promote and support family health and wellbeing.

Lecturer Bio:
Stephanie Rea B.Sc Hons Nutrition & Biology. Dip Business. Dip Ed (Antenatal)
Professional membership: ANTA (Australian Natural Therapists Association)
Treasurer of AAIMHI (Australian Association for Infant Mental Health)
Stephanie has had a 28 year career in nutrition and community health and wellbeing in both WA and the UK. After graduating in Nutrition and Biology from Oxford Brookes University she spent a few years in as a Clinical Researcher with some of the big pharma companies in Europe including Glaxo SB

Wendy Muller Social Work degree and postgraduate qualification in Social Work; Masters in Community Psychology; Certificate IV in Training and Assessment ; Diploma in Leadership and Management. Professional membership: Australian Psychological Society.
Wendy’s career has spanned different:
• working environments – from very large resources company; not-for-profit organisation; private practice; and small business owner
• roles and responsibilities – from management; marketing; professional practice consultant; psychologist and educator.

THINGS TO KNOW
This course will be held at The University Club of Western Australia.
Tea, Coffee and biscuits will be provided and is included in the cost.