the realization of the role that gut bacteria play in our health and even in our personality is perhaps one of the most crucial discoveries of the last 50 years. Researchers are currently investigating what kind of communication takes place between the gut and the brain, and the results can not only help in understanding the development of diseases, but can also be the basis of new therapies.
What does the belly reveal?
The microbes living in the intestine are our useful companions, they have the task of maintaining the health of the intestinal wall, preventing inflammation, the functioning of the immune cells in the intestine, the breakdown and absorption of nutrients and the regulation of blood sugar levels. everyone has noticed that consequently of stress, intestinal complaints may occur, such as diarrhea, or they become tense and anxious due to digestive problems and bloating. Not only the psyche can affect digestion, but the intestinal system also affects a person’s mood. There is a continuous two-way exchange of biochemical and neural information between the brain and the digestive system, which affects us in many ways. Communication takes place through different channels, via the planetary nerve and sensory neurons, gut microbes, hormones, and messengers.
Effects on emotions and the immune system
The gut and the brain can not only communicate, but also influence each other: gut bacteria affect our emotions and cognitive abilities. For example,some bacteria increase the release of the hormone oxytocin produced in our bodies,thus promoting increased social behavior,while other bacteria produce substances that cause symptoms of depression and anxiety. If we just think about the background of such expressions as “He’s entirely egged” “He behaves in a stomach-turning manner”, we now know where they actually come from. The enteric nervous system, also known as the “second brain”, located in our intestines, is so complex that it can even function independently of our brain.
From depression to autism
Animal experiments have already shown the connection between the gut and the psyche. Feces from anxious mice were transferred to germ-free mice that lacked the microbiome but developed an anxious phenotype as a result. The same was observed in mice with depressive-like behavior or overweight. It has also been established that people with metabolic disorders, psychiatric disorders or neurological diseases differ from healthy subjects in the composition and functioning of their microbiome. Moreover, a healthy microbiome can play an important role in the healthy aging of the brain and in slowing down cognitive decline.
The causal relationship is still unclear
It is difficult for researchers to say to what extent the microbiome may actually cause mental disorders or contribute to the development or maintenance of mental and neurological diseases. Just as it is not clear to what extent the results of animal experiments can be transferred to human studies. But in the case of irritable bowel syndrome, such as, it is already known that the gut-brain axis is disturbed.According to many researchers, an “unhealthy” microbiome cannot cause disease by itself, but it can make people less resistant to, for example, genetic risks, an unhealthy lifestyle, or emotional and physical stress.
From probiotics to faecal transplants
Findings on the gut-brain axis offer initial approaches to therapeutics, such as the potential use of probiotics to treat various disorders. There are already initial data on this, but according to experts, we are still very much at the beginning of the journey. They are already researching the extent to which microbiome transplantation with the feces of healthy people can help. During fecal transplantation,similarly living,nutritious faeces obtained primarily from relatives and filtered for pathogens are introduced into the large intestine of the sick person. For the time being, this is being done to treat a severe and recurring form of diarrhea caused by a diagnosed Clostridium infection.
Are the gut and the brain talking? Yes.
The microbiome is not only very unique, but also constantly changing. For example, if a person does intense mental work, where the blood supply to the brain is critically important, the body sends an instruction to the intestinal system to reduce its blood supply, as it is indeed now needed elsewhere. This also happens when playing sports. And the process also works in reverse. This explains why depression and even migraines are more common in intestinal patients. During the research of the gut and brain axis, it is indeed becoming more and more obvious that the role of a balanced gut flora in maintaining our health is greater than we thought until now.
Although tests and research continue on how to influence the course of neurological diseases and prevent them by changing the intestinal flora, faecal transplantation, or different diets, meanwhile we can do something for ourselves by paying attention to our nutrition and using coping strategies to combat the stress that affects us against, and also with fermented foods and in a pharmacy available probiotic mocha we protect ourselves.
Written by Katalin Réka Balla, pharmacy assistant, ed. recreation specialist
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2024-12-08 23:00:00
How can dietary changes impact gut bacteria and overall mental health?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Maria Thompson, Microbiome Researcher
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Thompson! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the captivating relationship between gut bacteria and our overall health and well-being. To kick things off, could you explain how significant this revelation has been over the past fifty years?
dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! The realization that gut bacteria play a crucial role in our health—extending even to aspects like our personality—is indeed monumental. It has shifted our understanding of health and disease, highlighting the gut as more than just a digestive organ. Researchers are increasingly looking into how the gut and brain communicate, unveiling connections that could lead to innovative treatments for a wide range of conditions.
Editor: It’s amazing to think of the gut as a second brain, as you mentioned. Can you elaborate on the ways in which the gut communicates with the brain?
dr. Thompson: Absolutely! There’s a continuous, two-way communication channel. The gut communicates with the brain through various means, including the vagus nerve, sensory neurons, and even hormones and microbial substances produced by gut bacteria. For instance, certain gut bacteria release hormones like oxytocin, which can improve social behavior. Conversely, dysfunctional gut bacteria may release substances that can induce anxiety or depression.
Editor: that’s fascinating! You touched on emotions earlier. How do gut bacteria impact mood and emotional well-being?
Dr. Thompson: Gut bacteria can significantly influence our emotional states. Research shows that the microbiome composition can both promote and inhibit the release of neurotransmitters linked to mood regulation, such as serotonin and dopamine. This connection explains why some people experience stress-induced digestive issues, and conversely, why gastrointestinal distress can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
Editor: Speaking of anxiety and depression, I read about animal experiments where the transfer of feces from anxious mice resulted in the same behavior in germ-free mice. Can you tell us more about that?
Dr. Thompson: Yes, those studies are quite revealing. They demonstrate that the microbiome has the power to shape behavior and emotional responses. When feces from anxious mice were transplanted into germ-free mice, those mice exhibited signs of anxiety. This suggests that the gut microbiome can influence not just physical health but also psychological states. Such findings indicate that addressing gut health might be a key component in treating certain psychiatric conditions.
Editor: That brings a whole new dimension to how we view mental health. What role do you think a healthy microbiome plays in mitigating conditions like depression or autism?
Dr. Thompson: A healthy microbiome can potentially act as a buffer against various mental health problems. Research suggests that the microbiome of individuals with metabolic disorders or psychiatric conditions is markedly different from that of healthy individuals. By restoring balance to the microbiome through diet, prebiotics, and probiotics, we may enhance emotional resilience and cognitive function, highlighting another motive for promoting gut health.
Editor: It’s intriguing to think about the implications for new therapies. What kind of therapies do you foresee emerging from this research?
Dr. thompson: We’re already seeing early attempts at “psychobiotics,” which are live bacteria that can have positive effects on mental well-being. In the future, I anticipate developments in personalized medicine based on an individual’s microbiome profile. This could involve tailored diets, probiotic treatments, or even microbiome transplants, specifically designed to optimize gut health to improve both physical and mental health outcomes.
Editor: That sounds like an exciting frontier in medicine! Lastly, what can individuals do now to nurture their gut health?
Dr. Thompson: Individuals can start by incorporating a variety of high-fiber foods into their diets,such as fruits,vegetables,whole grains,and legumes.Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha can also introduce beneficial bacteria into the gut. Staying hydrated and managing stress through mindfulness techniques can further support a healthy microbiome. It’s all about balance!
Editor: Thank you so much for yoru insights, Dr. thompson! It’s clear that the connection between our gut health and overall well-being is profound and complex. We appreciate your time and expertise today.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to share this vital information.