WHO AM I?
Hello and welcome! I'm Dr Miguel, a seasoned neuroscientist, applied microbiologist, and nutrition practitioner with a multifaceted career spanning over two decades. Wearing various hats as a researcher, clinician, author, and advocate, I've developed a unique expertise in neurodivergence, mental health, and the intricate world of the gut microbiome. This comprehensive skill set has guided me through a remarkable journey across the diverse landscapes of science, biotechnology, and human experience, collectively shaping the professional I am today.
Impressive as my qualifications may sound, they only scratch the surface. I believe that what enriches my work the most is my lived experience. It's a dimension that goes beyond academic and professional labels, moulding me into not just a better scientist but also a human being of deeper empathy and understanding. This unique blend of experience and credentials brings depth to my character and authenticity to all my interactions. In fact, this harmonious confluence of science and personal understanding has elevated my work to a different plane, one that extends beyond the lab to touch the very essence of what makes us human. My journey of discovery and self-improvement is ongoing and continues to shape who I am, both as a professional and as an individual.
MY STORY
I'm Dr Miguel, and my journey through the realms of science and human connection is one of boundless depth and passion. To me, science isn't merely a discipline of facts and figures; it's an art form that breathes life into new perspectives and endless possibilities. It's a philosophy I live by, a belief that we're all here to create, to contribute something significant. My purpose is to weave knowledge with both the precision of a scholar and the sensitivity of an artist, illuminating the complex beauty of science with compassion and inventiveness. But behind my scientific lens lies a world of personal trials. As a neurodivergent person living with ADHD and autism grappling with anxiety for as long as I remember, my life path has been shadowed by a sense of dissatisfaction with myself, which I link back to the traumas of my past, including abuse, bullying, and profound personal losses, including that of my brother when I was 8, and my best friend to suicide when I was 24, and the challenges of embracing my queer identity from my teens. My journey into the 50-year-old adult I am today has been a meticulous process of rediscovering my true self beneath all these layers. Like many, I've struggled with the pressure to trade authenticity for acceptance, altering my behaviour and appearance in an effort to protect myself from experiencing bias, discrimination, or negative judgments from others.
Hereās me talking about the power of storytelling at the Integrative Mental Health Day of the IPM Congress in July 2023 in front of 400+ delegates.
As I stand before you today, I am more than a sum of my experiences ā I am a blend of vulnerability and strength, expertise and empathy. I invite you to join me not just in a quest for better health but in a movement towards embracing our authentic selves, with all the complexities and unique patterns we each bring to the beautiful mosaic of life. The convergence of my professional expertise and personal history gifts me with an intersectional lens, one that enriches not only my research but also my clinical approach. I know the sting of feeling like an outsider, branded as āthe odd one,ā because that's a part of my story, too. But thatās also one of the reasons I am uniquely qualified to understand you and your needs.
Join me on this transformative journey, not just as your clinician, but as your fellow traveller, as someone who has walked a similar path. Letās create a space where you can be your true self as we unlock the potential that's been there all along, beneath the surface, waiting to shine.
Like many neurodivergent individuals, I found it challenging to identify and understand my own emotions. I attempted to live my life in āgood vibes onlyā mode until the world paused in 2020, and a lifetime of motion ceased alongside it. Both my body and mind surrendered to an exhaustive halt, a complete burnout that unexpectedly turned into a hidden blessing. During this time, as I endured almost two years of chronic, widespread pain, a moment of clarity emerged that made me see things clearly. Sometimes, we need to shrink our worlds to their core, embrace stillness, and adopt a humbler existence. It might defy the common push always to reach further, but I was emotionally spent, in dire need of an inward retreat to a place where simplicity could be my sanctuary.
Being unwell, both physically and mentally, became a catalyst for transformation. It propelled me into a state of liberated thinking, where all the extraneous fell away, leaving behind what truly mattered. In this distilled space, much like a sculptor reveals art from raw marble, I uncovered the inherent beauty within simplicity. I chose to cocoon myself in this reduced realm, not out of defeat, but as a conscious embrace of my journeyās intricate weave. The scars from adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are part of me, but they donāt encapsulate my entire essence. They are but fragments of a larger narrative steeped in resilience and growth. In this period of reflection, I not only addressed long-held grief for my brother and my best friend but also confronted the remnants of the sexual and physical abuse that had been locked in my mind for decades. In the quietude, I engaged in meditation and began to rewrite my life's narrative through the lens of neurodivergence. It was as if a fog had lifted, and the pieces of my lifeās puzzle began to align. My introspection revealed not a craving for sustenance but a deeper yearning for love and self-acceptance. This journey of self-discovery led me to embrace my neurodivergent identity fully. First, my ADHD diagnosis put much into perspective. Then, suspecting another piece of the puzzle was yet to be placed, I sought further understanding of my suspected autism, culminating in a formal diagnosis. It was a profound affirmation, providing both insight and relief.
So profound was this epiphany that in October 2023, I embraced change, stepping away from a secure career in research to pursue a calling that's close to my heart: to dedicate myself to you, whether you're living your life as a formally- or self-diagnosed neurodivergent person, I see you, I understand you because I am you. That is why I have written the first of my online courses āThrive With ADHD.ā
In my practice, when I talk about a dialogue between enquiry and discovery, I'm not only referring to the clinical aspect of my work. I'm speaking of a genuine, heartfelt commitment to a holistic approach that honours our shared complexities and the intersectionality of our experiences. As a neurodivergent individual myself, I know what it's like to feel out of place in your own skin. That's why I offer you more than just my scientific insight; I offer my genuine self, my lived reality.
I am here to guide you because my qualifications extend beyond academia; they're written in the narrative of my life. With every piece of advice, with every strategy I share, I'm inviting you into a space where science meets vulnerability, where professionalism intertwines with personal truth. Together, we'll navigate this world, one that may not have always understood us, but in which we can certainly thrive with authenticity and mutual support.
Embark with me on this path of profound change, where I am not only a guide but a fellow journeyer. Together, let's forge an environment where you are empowered to be unabashedly you, as we explore and unleash the full potential that has always been present, yet awaits its moment to radiate.
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MY PURPOSE
My life's purpose is elegantly complex yet profoundly simple: to empower people from all walks of life by weaving in scientific understanding and personal insight, shining a light on holistic wellbeing through empathy and evidence, and fostering a compassionate, judgement-free zone for self-care and personal growth.
Weaving these themes into a coherent narrative, I aim to inspire and guide others on their journey towards holistic wellness, highlighting the particular relevance and benefits for those with ADHD and neurodivergent profiles. It's about honouring the unique pathways to health, underpinned by solid scientific knowledge and enriched by personal understanding and experiences.
Empowerment through knowledge:
For individuals with ADHD and other types of neurodivergence, understanding the nuances of the gut-brain axis could offer bespoke strategies for managing symptoms. Knowledge about the impact of nutrition on mental wellness can be a game-changer, providing a foundation for a more balanced lifestyle and potentially moderating the intense highs and lows associated with challenges in emotional regulation.
Holistic health strategy:
A holistic health approach is especially beneficial for those experiencing ADHD and related neurodivergent conditions, anxiety, and mood disorders. By integrating dietary choices that support both the gut and brain health, alongside targeted supplementation and physical activities that help regulate stress, a comprehensive strategy is formed that respects the complex interplay of factors influencing mental health.
Stigma-free zone:
Creating an environment that breaks down the stigma associated with neurodivergence, including ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders, is crucial. It allows for an open dialogue and a safe space where individuals can seek support and strategies for managing burnout without judgement, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.
Purpose-driven life:
When individuals with ADHD or neurodivergent conditions find a purpose that resonates with them, it can be incredibly grounding and stabilising. That is definitely my case, as I explain in my course āThriving With ADHD.ā This sense of purpose can catalyse a community of support, where shared experiences in managing anxiety, mood challenges, and burnout lead to collective healing and empowerment.
Non-negotiable self-care:
For those navigating the waters of ADHD, neurodivergence, anxiety, and mood disorders, affirming certain self-care practices as ānon-negotiableā can be transformative. It is a commitment to oneself that acknowledges the necessity of consistent self-care routines to maintain long-term health and manage the risks of burnout.
Dive into this unique course curated by award-winning Clinical Neuroscientist Dr Miguel Toribio-Mateas. The course is enriched by Dr Miguelās personal journey with ADHD. It fuses cutting-edge principles from neuroscience about self-regulation, emotional awareness, and cognitive reframing with gut microbiome insights and nutritional strategies. Dr Miguel's approach weaves empathy, kindness and a touch of humour for a holistic learning experience that celebrates ADHD with or without medication.
Learn more about my āThrive With ADHDā course here.
WHAT SOME PEOPLE SAY ABOUT ME
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Katie Brown, Head of Young Adult Therapeutic Pathways at Body & Soul Charity
Miguel has been a friend and volunteer at Body & Soul Charity for a few years, and more recently has been contributing to the You Are Not Alone programme for 16-30 year olds who struggle with suicidality and self-harm. As part of our trauma-engaged wellbeing programme, he has been delivering workshops for young people on the connection between gut health, trauma and mental wellbeing. During the workshops, I have been struck by his ability to answer a vast range of questions with ease, wisdom and kindness, and participants have shared with me that he presents in a way that is creative and accessible to those with neurodivergence.
With Miguel, you get a wonderful combination of enthusiasm, creativity and care. We're so grateful that he is a generous contributor to our community and are looking forward to continuing to collaborate.
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Dr Rupy, Medical Doctor, Author and Founder of The Doctor's Kitchen
It was an absolute pleasure to chat with Dr Miguel on The Doctor's Kitchen Podcast. The insights and knowledge that he shared around ADHD and diet and the benefits that making small dietary changes may offer are super interesting. This episode will be so well received by our audience. Dr Miguel has a wonderful way of connecting with the audience through sharing personal experiences, and that really does resonate well with people. We had a super time chatting and cooking up a wonderful dish in our studio!
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Professor Tim Spector, Chief Scientific Officer, Zoe
Miguel is an amazing source of gut health knowledge.
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![A testimonial to Dr Miguel Toribio-Mateas by Dr Rangan Chatterjee]()
Dr Rangan Chatterjee, Best selling author and GP
"Miguel, you're someone I've always respected. Your knowledge and expertise when it comes to food, and especially nutrition for brain health, has always impressed me."
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Dr Deanna Minich, Best selling author and nutrition researcher
Miguel Toribio-Mateas is a unique, innovative scientist. He takes his creative flair into his research pursuits, including emphasizing the diverse colorful variety of foods for healing of the gut. Miguel brings science into the realm of artistry, which is what we need in the 21st century to connect all the dots between knowledge and application.
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Lisa Mac, Co-founder of The Gut Stuff
D Miguel perfectly straddles the credible science with how this works in practice: how to adapt it in a clinical setting as well as to the general public. His research work on the gut-brain axis is fascinating and we need practitioners like him more and more - so the public stay in touch with what is going on in the ivory towers. He is a ball of energy and we are very grateful for him!
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Dr Stephen Pereira, Consultant Psychiatrist and CEO of Happence
We have worked with Miguel since June 2017. The feedback we get from corporate clients is outstanding. Miguelās key strength is the unique way he takes complex neuroscience concepts and delivers them in plain, straightforward English. He does this with passion, a practical mindset and a sense of realism. So, the audience comes away determined to make simple nutrition-based changes to optimise their performance in the workplace. People can relate to his recommendations because he puts them forward in language and suggestions which feel sustainable.
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Dr Marc Bubbs, Director of Nutrition for the Canadian Men's National Basketball Team
Miguel distils the incredible complexity of the gut and gut-brain connection with expert precision, providing valuable evidence-based insights and practical, actionable translation. A scientist and practitioner, Miguel is the perfect guide to navigate this complex field.
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Jeannette Hyde, Best selling author and nutrition practitioner
Dr Miguel understands the science. Has vast experience of working with real people, not lab mice. It is rare to find a scientist who has such a lot of clinical practice. Gut science is so new; there are few people with hands-on experience linked with the theory out there like him. He empathises and motivates real human beings to implement the changes needed to get better health results.
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Dr Vince Gradillas, Consultant Psychiatrist and CEO of Claimont Health
The work that Miguel has been doing to support our clinical teams for the last few years has been immense. He has provided thorough nutritional assessments and delivered well-informed, evidence-based and innovative programmes to our patients, aiding in their recovery from mental and behavioural disorders. With a population that can demonstrate difficulties with motivation and engagement, his responsiveness and expertise are matched by his warm, kind and enthusiastic approach, which is consistently popular with our patients.
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Stan Koshechkin, CEO Knomx Microbiome Research
I worked with Miguel at Atlas Biomed Group. We conducted several phase IV clinical trials and went through dozens of negotiations with partners together. As a professional, he has profound knowledge of the microbiome, nutrition, and research in general. Miguel showed a systematic approach to projects we did, and I think it was essential for achieving the results we had. It was an absolute pleasure to be in the negotiations he drove because he is an excellent speaker. As a person, he is very positive, optimistic and ready to help with any issue. I enjoyed working with Miguel very much, and this is the cause I am writing this recommendation.
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Hazel, North Devon
My interest in brain health comes from lifelong anxiety, which worsened in menopause.
I was drawn to the Thrive with ADHD course because of the combination of science and lived experience. I was delighted to learn so many juicy nuggets about how the brain works and how to support it, and had many "aha" moments. I now have a routine which suits me and feel more at peace with myself.
Thank you Miguel!
Iām currently working with Jessica Kingsley Publishers, an imprint of Hachette, on my book "Thrive With ADHD - A Compassionate Guide Blending Neuroscience, Nutrition, and the Art of Living,ā which will be out in 2025.
Click on the button below to read the full book announcement.