Hosted by Bread With Benefits, the day combines live demonstrations, guided tasting, and step-by-step fermentation work with accessible teaching from Dr Miguel Toribio-Mateas, clinical neuroscientist and gut–brain researcher, and Dr Alex Davidson, a General Practitioner with functional medicine training and expertise in both nutrition and mental health. You will explore how microbial diversity, fermentation methods, and feeding patterns influence short-chain fatty acids, neurotransmitter precursors, vagal signalling, and emotional regulation. You will also gain simple interventions you can use in consultations straight away.
The day includes:
• Practical sourdough fermentation tuition, from starter to bake
• A clear overview of the gut–brain axis and why fermented foods matter
• Clinical reasoning examples for mood, anxiety, and digestive cases
• Q&A throughout and time for reflective discussion
• A full sourdough lunch prepared on-site (gluten-free possible, on demand)
Who is this for:
Anyone who is interested in learning about how food choices affects your health. No previous baking experience needed! Suitable for both beginners and those already using fermentation in practice.
Group size: Limited to 12 participants to keep the experience practical and interactive.
Fee: €179
Booking: https://breadwithbenefits.ie/pages/food-and-mood-retreat
Corbalton Lodge Tara, Co. Meath C15DX80