Food Influence on the Gut-Brain Axis

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from a lecture on the gut-brain axis, including definitions of key terms.

Axis

A fixed reference line for a measurement of coordinates

Gut-Brain

Also known as the Enteric Nervous System, referred to as the “little brain” or the “second brain”. Main role is controlling our digestive tract.

Enteric Nervous System (ENS)

Largest and most complex of the peripheral nervous systems, comprised of two thin layers of over ~600 million nerve cells lining your GI tract from esophagus to the rectum. Alerts the CNS if the body does not have enough nutrients and uses bidirectional communication for body homeostasis.

Vagus Nerve

The main link between your ENS and your brain; Plays an important role in modulation of inflammation, maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, and regulation of food intake and satiety.

Villi

Tiny hair-like projections that uptake nutrients for absorption, contain nerve cells.

Enteroendocrine Cells (EECs)

Specialized cells producing and releasing hormones/signaling molecules. Respond to nutrients by releasing gut hormones.

Endocrine

Attributed to modulation of hormonal secretion or to direct production of bacterial metabolites.

Metabolic

Bacterial metabolites produced by bacterial fermentation that affect nutrition of enterocytes.

Neurological

Vagal and spinal afferent nerve pathways convey information regarding hormonal, chemical, and mechanical stimuli from the intestines to the brain.

Immune

The gut contains the highest number of immune cells, creating a critical network between the brain and the GIT.

Dietary Fiber (CHO)

Increase in bacterial diversity and help produce short-chain fatty acids (these overall benefit the gut microbiota).

Dietary lipids/fatty acids (SFA, MUFA, PUFA)

Beneficial for innervation, important for glucose homeostasis.

Protein/amino acids

Supports gut repair (mucosal production), slows digestion process, increasing absorption.

Vitamins

Important cofactors in the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters; maintain gut support and support neurotransmission function.

Minerals

Deficiencies or excess can cause microbial imbalances and highly affect absorption rate.

Serotonin

Lean meats, fish, nuts, fruits, vegetables (foods high in tryptophan); feel good hormone.