Gut-brain connection

The gut-brain connection refers to the communication system that enables the gut and the brain to “talk to each other”. It is a bidirectional system also known as the “gut-brain axis”. The gut-brain connection features an intricate relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system, where communication happens as a result of complex interactions among gut microbes, the gut lining, immune cells, hormones, and neural pathways or channels between different parts of the brain and the nervous system.¹²³

The following five points illustrate the parts involved in the complex machinery that is the gut-brain axis:

Gut microbes: Beneficial gut microbes, Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, play a crucial role in the gut-brain connection. They produce various metabolites, including neurotransmitters like GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which influence mood, behaviour, and cognitive function.⁴⁵⁶
Prebiotics: Dietary fibres like inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) serve as fuel for beneficial gut microbes. They selectively promote the growth and activity of probiotic microbes, leading to the production of beneficial metabolites that can positively influence brain function.⁷⁸⁹
Postbiotics / Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): Gut microbes ferment dietary fibres and produce postbiotics, including the SCFAs butyrate, propionate, and acetate. SCFAs have numerous effects on the gut-brain axis. For example, butyrate is a crucial energy source for colon cells and helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, while propionate can affect appetite regulation and central nervous system function.¹⁰¹¹
Neurotransmitter regulation: Gut microbes and their metabolites can modulate the production and availability of neurotransmitters in the brain. For instance, certain species of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus are involved in the production of tryptophan, the building block of serotonin, and can impact mood and mental well-being.¹²¹³¹⁴
Immune system modulation: Gut microbes and their metabolic byproducts can influence the immune system, including immune cells in the gut and the brain. The most tangible outcome of this immune modulation is a regulation of inflammatory molecules in the gut, the bloodstream, and the brain. This has been documented as one of the key ways the gut-brain connection impacts brain health, particularly the balance between neuroprotection and neurodegeneration.¹⁵¹⁶¹⁷

Overall, the gut-brain connection involves a complex interplay between gut microbes, prebiotics, postbiotics, short-chain fatty acids, and various communication pathways. Understanding and supporting this connection through a healthy diet, rich in probiotic microbes and prebiotic fibres, can have beneficial effects on brain health and function.¹⁸¹⁹

Where to find the gut-brain connection in the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test features a gut-brain connection score that gives you an indication of the potential of your gut microbiome to support brain health and a balanced mood through life’s natural ups and downs. You will find your gut-brain connection score in the Systemic Wellness report of the Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Test.

Synonyms: Brain-Gut Axis, gut-brain connection, brain-gut connection, gut-central nervous system, neurogastroenterology

Important disclaimer

The Chuckling Goat Gut Microbiome Handbook is an educational resource built to translate complex science into plain English. The information provided on this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Always check with your GP for interactions with medications/health conditions before changing your diet or starting to take food supplements.

References

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Gut-brain connection

References

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