Your gut is your second brain! Random brainfacts

Описание: The digestive system contains a "second brain" called the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is made up of over 100 million nerve cells lining the gastrointestinal tract. The ENS primarily controls digestion, including swallowing, enzyme release, nutrient absorption, and elimination. While it does not think as the brain in the skull does, it communicates with the central nervous system (CNS) and can have significant effects on emotions and mood.

Research suggests that the ENS may play a role in emotional shifts experienced by people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional bowel problems. Previously, it was believed that anxiety and depression contributed to these issues, but now it appears that irritation in the gut may trigger mood changes through signals to the CNS. As a result, a higher percentage of people with IBS and functional bowel problems may develop depression and anxiety.

The understanding of the connection between the ENS and CNS has led to more effective treatments for conditions like IBS and bowel disorders. Therapies such as antidepressants and mind-body techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medical hypnotherapy have shown promise in improving symptoms by positively influencing the communication between the two "brains."

Further research is still needed to explore the link between the gut and cognition, including thinking skills and memory. Additionally, scientists are interested in understanding how signals from the digestive system impact metabolism, potentially affecting the risk of health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, through interactions between nerve signals, gut hormones, and gut bacteria (microbiota).