How does gut condition affect mood?

According to her, it is due to the relationship between the intestines and the brain, which has recently attracted the attention of experts.

“There are special nerve cells in the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines that are responsible for the normal functioning of the digestive system and enhance the immune system, preventing the growth and reproduction of pathogens. These cells form the enteric nervous system, which is in constant “communication” with the brain and informs it whether the food contains dangerous substances or bacteria, and this axis works in both directions,” she says.

According to her, the vagus nerve acts as a major communication channel for transmitting signals from the intestines to the brain and vice versa. Neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid) produced in the brain and intestines play an important role, helping the body adapt to internal and external changes and affecting physical and psychological state, including mood. Therefore, when the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the intestines is disturbed, it affects the mood, because some types of pathogenic bacteria suppress the production of serotonin and dopamine, which leads to a bad mood. Beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, improve the functioning of the intestines and maintain the level of normal neurotransmitters, which reduces feelings of anxiety and depression.

The doctor points out that stress negatively affects the condition of the intestines, causes an imbalance of microorganisms, and leads to indigestion.

Source: Izvestia newspaper