This is something that has puzzled me some time. How does, say psychological issues, really physically affect the gut-brain connection.
In: Biology
You have a nervous system, that sends instructions from your brain to your entire body. When your brain experiences stress, it sends out the instruction to release cortisol (or adrenaline) through your bloodstream to the brain, to enable you to deal with the situation effectively and quickly. Having these chemicals run through your bloodstream often can change the native bacteria in your gut, and disrupt them. This can lead to digestion issues, inflammation, immune system issues. Your weakened gut could now allow harmful bacteria to grow in it. Some of these can pass into the bloodstream and reach the brain, causing mood issues, anxiety, more stress. One important point i haven’t mentioned : The gut produces neurotransmitters that help to regulate your mood. When that’s broken, that hurts your mental health more.
This can cause an endless loop.
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