Have you ever had butterflies in your stomach before a big event? Or noticed that stress seems to affect your digestion?
There is a reason for that. Your gut and brain are in constant communication through a complex network known as the gut brain axis.
What is the gut brain axis?
The gut brain axis describes the two way communication between your gastrointestinal system and your brain. Messages travel through several pathways, including the nervous system, immune system, hormones and substances produced by gut microbes.
This means your gut is not simply a digestive organ.
It is part of a much bigger communication network within your body. Your microbiome and your brain The trillions of microorganisms living in your gut produce a huge variety of compounds. Some of these interact with pathways involved in the nervous system and immune function. Researchers are studying whether changes in the composition and activity of the gut microbiome can influence brain function, mood and behaviour. The science is fascinating, but it is important to keep the evidence in perspective. Gut health is not a replacement for mental health care, and conditions such as anxiety and depression have many different causes.
Stress can affect your gut too
The communication works both ways. When you are stressed, your nervous system can influence gut movement, sensitivity and digestive function. This is why some people experience changes in their bowel habits, bloating or stomach discomfort during stressful periods. Your gut is listening to your brain, while your brain is listening to your gut. Looking after both
Supporting your gut does not have to involve complicated routines. Start with the basics.
Eat a varied diet.
Include plenty of fibre.
Move regularly.
Prioritise sleep.
Make time to relax.
And give yourself space to eat slowly and mindfully.
Your brain and gut are connected every day. So perhaps looking after one is also an opportunity to look after the other. Symprove's approach starts with the gut, using live and active bacteria designed to reach the gut alive.