GUT BRAIN AXIS

Enteric system

subdivision of the autonomic ns

gastrointestinal tract

responsible for

• processing food

• absorbing nutrients

• excreting waste

gut microbiota

• they live in our gut creating a microbiome

• microbiota digest the components of our food to provide their own nutrients

• provide us with energy and nutrients

• play a big role in gut health and resistance to stress

• the greater the diversity the more resistance to stress

gut brain axis

refers to the connection that exists between the cns and the ens

• gaba allows bidirectional communication between the brain and gastrointestinal tract via the vagus nerve

links with stress

• during prolonged stress, release of cortisol can cause damage and disruption to gut microbiota and digestive system

• chronic stress can decrease diversity of microbiota which can lead to mental issues

vagus nerve

relays messages between the gut and brain