The Gut / Brain Axis. What it is + how it works.

At the frontier of today’s scientific research is the conception of the gut / brain axis. This is the idea that there is a reciprocal link between the gut and the central nervous system, including the brain. This means that not only does the gut impact the brain, but the brain impacts the gut, in a perpetual feedback loop.

The science is fairly complex, but the implications of these findings has already shown a deeper understanding and knowledge of the body and mind as a system that works as one. It has shone light onto the inner workings of mental wellbeing, another topic of huge importance in today’s society.

The microbiota-gut-brain axis idea, which has piqued the interest of researchers worldwide, was developed in response to mounting evidence that the gut microbiome has a profound impact on several important brain functionings [1]. 

The microbiota in the large intestine produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) through the anaerobic fermentation of complex polysaccharides such as dietary fiber and resistant starch [2]. The science suggests that SCFAs could have direct or indirect effects on how the stomach and brain speak to each other.

Acetate, propionate, and butyrate are the main three SCFAs produced by the flora of a healthy colon [2]. In fact, they become abundant in your gut when you have a balanced and supported microbiome. Under optimal conditions, a healthy microbiome can affect brain functioning, and one of the results is hunger suppression, which, under safe conditions and combined with a healthy lifestyle and exercise can aid in the regulation of one’s weight. In a time where obesity is an epidemic, this is very good news for many.

So as you can see, a healthy microbiome not only impacts your brain's functioning but also your body's desire for excess food. And now you know why we developed Mind Focus and Weight Balance (check them both out on the products page). 

1.

Jandhyala, S.M., et al., Role of the normal gut microbiota. World journal of gastroenterology: WJG, 2015. 21(29): p. 8787.

2.

Silva, Y.P., A. Bernardi, and R.L. Frozza, The role of short-chain fatty acids from gut microbiota in gut-brain communication. Frontiers in endocrinology, 2020. 11: p. 25.