The Gut–Brain Connection: How Your Digestive System Shapes Your Mind
In recent years, scientists and health experts have begun calling the gut our “second brain.” This isn’t just a catchy phrase there’s strong scientific evidence that our gut and brain are deeply connected, constantly communicating through a complex network known as the gut–brain axis . What Is the Gut–Brain Axis? The gut–brain axis refers to the two-way communication between your digestive system and your central nervous system. This communication happens through: The vagus nerve , a direct physical link between gut and brain. Neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) produced by gut bacteria. The immune system , which reacts to changes in the gut environment. Simply put, what happens in your gut can influence how your brain feels — and vice versa. Your Gut Microbiome: Tiny Organisms with Big Influence Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria , fungi, and viruses collectively called the microbiome . When balanced, this microbial community helps with: Digesti...