The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Organized an International Workshop on Gut Health and Sleep Quality
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Cihan University–Erbil organized an international workshop titled “How Can Our Gut Affect Our Sleep?” The event was held in the VIP Hall and presented by Dr. Jeanine Awad, an international nutrition expert from Lebanon. The workshop was attended by Prof. Dr. Ayad Hazim, Vice President for Scientific Affairs, along with several department heads, academic staff members, and students from various stages.
The workshop explored the scientific and physiological connections between gut microbiota and sleep regulation. Dr. Awad explained how intestinal bacteria influence the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, melatonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) chemicals that play vital roles in mood regulation, circadian rhythm, and sleep quality.
She highlighted dietary patterns that promote a healthy gut environment, including the consumption of high-fiber foods, probiotics, and prebiotics, while also warning about factors that disrupt gut balance, such as stress, processed foods, and irregular meal timing. Participants gained insights into how nutritional interventions can support both digestive health and restorative sleep through practical meal planning and lifestyle adjustments.
The session also discussed emerging research linking the gut–brain axis to insomnia, anxiety, and metabolic disorders, emphasizing how dietitians can apply this knowledge in clinical and community nutrition practice.
The workshop provided participants with an evidence-based understanding of how gut health and diet influence sleep quality and overall well-being. At the end of the session, the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics presented Dr. Jeanine Awad with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her valuable contribution. The department also announced that the materials and key insights shared during the workshop will be incorporated into upcoming seminars and student projects focusing on nutritional neuroscience.
