Nutrition and Psycho-Neuro-Immunology…what is that!?
By Fleur Borrelli, Clinical Psycho-Neuro-Immunologist and Nutritional Therapist
Nutrition and Psycho-neuro-immunology
Main benefits
Helps with weight management
Helps with hormonal issues
Helps with mental health – anxiety, depression
Helps with stress management
Helps with immune system conditions
Helps with digestive issues
Helps with overall wellness
What is and how it works
Psycho-neuro-immunology (PNI) is a health science focusing on how the mind, the nervous system and the immune system interact and communicate with each other via a complex series of biochemical and nervous system pathways. Clinical psychoneuroimmunology (cPNI) is the application of this knowledge in a clinical setting and provides clients with a better understanding of their pathway to health.
Science
cPNI is a cutting-edge scientific therapeutic modality that is based on the latest developments in the fields of psychology, neurology, endocrinology, immunology and epigenetics and underpinned by human evolutionary biology. Our genes have changed very little since Palaeolithic times, between 10,000 and 50,000 BC. But the changes to our lifestyles particularly over the last 50 years are unprecedented. It is these changes, especially the over-abundance of simple carbohydrate foods coupled with sedentary behaviours, that cause changes in genetic expression that lead to the 35 or so chronic diseases in our society.
Approach
Stress is thought of as a psychological overload, however, there are different forms of stress that act as ‘stressors’ for our body such as poor diet, lack of exercise and mineral deficiency. In addition, adverse events in childhood and traumas challenge our immune system and activate a ‘flight fight’ nervous system response. Theses stressors may induce electrical signals from the brain that can travel down the peripheral nerves causing the release of a neurotransmitter which can jump to the next organ and affect its function. These same peripheral nerves can influence white blood cells of the immune system. Chronic systemic low-grade inflammation can be the result and is at the root of most chronic diseases.
Treatment is aimed at supporting the immune system through the following:
· Food as medicine and the timing of meals in relation to exercise
· Exercise as medicine – how different types of exercise produce metabolic flexibility
· Psycho-social techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy, expressive writing, creative psychotherapy
Deep learning
Clients learn about the interactions between the brain, metabolism and the immune system in a process known as deep learning. Deep learning empowers the client with knowledge which enables them to take control of their health. The strength of treatment is in the application of the latest insights from various areas of science. A personal approach takes a central role, and all physiological aspects are considered.
If any of this is of interest to you, be sure to get in touch with our Psycho-Neuro-Immunologist and Nutritional Therapist Fleur Borrelli on 07766883522
Leslie is a Master Trainer for the world renowned Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute(APPI). He is regular key note speaker at conferences and travels internationally to present on modified exercise for rehabilitation.
Leslie is the founder of Bodies Under Construction Clinics situated in Berkshire and London. A specialist Private Physiotherapy Practice for People of all ages, but especially those in their 30’s. 40’s, 50’s and 60’s and beyond, who want to keep healthy and active.
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