Five Surprising Ways Your Gut Can Influence Your Brain

Our gut, technically known as the enteric nervous system (ENS), houses a complex community of microorganisms—collectively termed the gut microbiome. This powerhouse of microbes, thriving in our gut, has a profound influence on our brain's workings—enough to earn it the title of the "second brain". The ENS and the brain are intertwined through the gut-brain axis—a bidirectional communication highway determining various aspects of our day-to-day life, from our mood to cravings and even memory.

Altering Mood and Behavior

The gut and its vast microbial inhabitants can significantly affect our mood and behavior. Certain strains of bacteria, like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been found to produce neurotransmitters such as GABA, known for its calming effect. An imbalance of gut microbiota could potentially lead to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety—underscoring the concept of 'Psychobiotics', leveraging beneficial gut bacteria to improve mental health.