The Gut-Brain Axis
In recent years, gastroenterological research has been moving toward a field of study whose elements have long been known individually, but which has only recently begun to develop as its own discipline.
It has long been known that one of the main nerves originating in the brain, the vagus nerve, carries direct impulses from the brain to the gut. The reverse process was also known, as was the fact that an extensive nerve network exists within the wall of the gut. However, the close connection between the two systems has only recently come into focus. So many publications have appeared on this bidirectional connection that a new scientific discipline, neurogastroenterology, has emerged from it.
The cells of the enteric nervous system are located in the wall of the gut. The number of nerve cells found here exceeds the number of cells in the spinal cord, so it is no wonder that many publications refer to it as the ‘second brain’. Of course, the cells in the gut are not capable of thinking at the level of our brain, but they influence — and even direct — its functioning in many highly effective ways.
A decisive 80-90% of the signals traveling along the gut-brain axis reach the brain from the digestive system. The vast majority of serotonin, which plays an important role in brain function, is produced in the gut, and it is responsible — among other things — for generating feelings of happiness.
Chronic stress has at least a dual effect: a direct one, and a secondary negative effect on the bacterial flora. Both factors are also of great significance in the development of IBS. It is no coincidence that restoring the balance of both the nervous system and the gut flora is playing an increasingly important role in the treatment of IBS.
In summary, two very important things are needed for the gut-brain axis to function well!
– Brain training (more info …)
– Regular consumption of prebiotics and probiotics of appropriate quality and quantity.
Health begins in the gut!
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