Why the Gut is called the Second Brain of a Human Body? by Dr. Neerja Hajela

Dr. Neerja Hajela is the Head of Science and Regulatory Affairs for Yakult Danone India Pvt Ltd. She is a member of the Gut Microbiota and Probiotic Science Foundation of India. She is also a member on the Governing Council of ILSI-India Knowledge Center for Functional Foods, Gut Health, and Immunity (IKFHI).

In the latest interview with First Medical Diagnostics, Dr. Neerja Hajela given a lot of knowledge about the connection between the Gut and the Brain. 

What is the link between the Gut and the Brain?

The connection between the gut and the brain is known as the gut-brain axis. This connection is made up of bidirectional communication pathways that connect the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, to the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is a complex network of neurons in the gastrointestinal tract.

The components of this Connection are:

• The vagus nerve transmits signals in both directions, allowing the brain to affect gut function and vice versa.

• Both the gut and the brain produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which regulate mood, cognition, and gut function.

• The Gut contains trillions of microorganisms. These microbes can produce metabolites and interact with the ENS, altering its function.

• Hormones produced in the Gut, such as ghrelin, leptin, and peptide YY, affect appetite, metabolism, and even mood by sending signals to the brain via the bloodstream.

• The immune cells in the Gut produce cytokines and other signaling molecules that can affect both gut and brain function.

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