The bi-directional connection between the gut and brain is well established, however researchers now believe the role microbiota plays in our perception, mood and behaviour has been significantly underestimated. (1)
Gut-brain axis interactions have been linked to changes in stress and anxiety behaviours, the sleep–wake cycle, sexual behaviour, perception of fear and loneliness, food cravings, social connection, even odour and attraction. (2,3)
Microbiota are capable of producing neuroactive molecules which strongly influence the autonomic nervous system via enteric neurons. They act by hijacking the vagus nerve, the neural axis between the gut and the brain. (1)
Evidence suggests gastrointestinal microbiota may be under selective pressure to manipulate host behaviour in order to increase their survival and fitness. (1)
For example, gut microbes are capable of altering our mood and feeding behaviour by: (1,3)
The latest research suggests specific probiotic strains can therapeutically remodel the human gut microbiota, balancing the complex bi-directional interplay between the gut and nervous system. (4) Potential benefits of therapeutic remodelling of gut microbiota include reductions in stress and anxiety, improved mood, a stronger drive towards healthy eating patterns and improved social connection. (1,3,4)
References:
1. Alcock, J., Maley, C. C., & Aktipis, C. A. (2014). Is eating behavior manipulated by the gastrointestinal microbiota? Evolutionary pressures and potential mechanisms. Bioessays, 36(10), 940-949.
2. Karsas, M., Lamb, G., & Green, R. J. (2018). The immunology of mind control–exploring the relationship between the microbiome and the brain-part 1. Current Allergy & Clinical Immunology, 31(2), 103-109.
3. Karsas, M., Lamb, G., & Green, R. J. (2019). The immunology of mind control: exploring the relationship between the microbiome and the brain (part II). Current Allergy & Clinical Immunology, 32(1), 50-57.
4. Martin, C. R., Osadchiy, V., Kalani, A., & Mayer, E. A. (2018). The Brain-Gut-Microbiome Axis. Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 6(2), 133–148.
Gut-brain axis interactions have been linked to changes in stress and anxiety behaviours, the sleep–wake cycle, sexual behaviour, perception of fear and loneliness, food cravings, social connection, even odour and attraction. (2,3)
Microbiota are capable of producing neuroactive molecules which strongly influence the autonomic nervous system via enteric neurons. They act by hijacking the vagus nerve, the neural axis between the gut and the brain. (1)
Evidence suggests gastrointestinal microbiota may be under selective pressure to manipulate host behaviour in order to increase their survival and fitness. (1)
For example, gut microbes are capable of altering our mood and feeding behaviour by: (1,3)
- Altering the dopamine-reward system, to generate cravings for foods they require, or foods that suppress their competitors.
- Changing neuropeptide signalling to induce dysphoria until we eat foods that enhance their fitness.
- During starvation, production of neurotransmitters such as GABA, reducing inhibitions, altering facial expressions and making us appear more socially attractive thereby increasing chances of finding food within the group.
The latest research suggests specific probiotic strains can therapeutically remodel the human gut microbiota, balancing the complex bi-directional interplay between the gut and nervous system. (4) Potential benefits of therapeutic remodelling of gut microbiota include reductions in stress and anxiety, improved mood, a stronger drive towards healthy eating patterns and improved social connection. (1,3,4)
References:
1. Alcock, J., Maley, C. C., & Aktipis, C. A. (2014). Is eating behavior manipulated by the gastrointestinal microbiota? Evolutionary pressures and potential mechanisms. Bioessays, 36(10), 940-949.
2. Karsas, M., Lamb, G., & Green, R. J. (2018). The immunology of mind control–exploring the relationship between the microbiome and the brain-part 1. Current Allergy & Clinical Immunology, 31(2), 103-109.
3. Karsas, M., Lamb, G., & Green, R. J. (2019). The immunology of mind control: exploring the relationship between the microbiome and the brain (part II). Current Allergy & Clinical Immunology, 32(1), 50-57.
4. Martin, C. R., Osadchiy, V., Kalani, A., & Mayer, E. A. (2018). The Brain-Gut-Microbiome Axis. Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 6(2), 133–148.
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