Gut Brain Axis and Mental Health

Abstract

The digestive tract in our body is very long. The parts starting from the mouth to the anus and all that depends on it are called the digestive system. Millions of organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and amoeba live in our digestive tract especially in the large intestine and small intestine. This habitat is referred to as the gut microbiome. The imbalance of the gut microbiome is called gut dysbiosis. This is the basis of many diseases. Correcting this is very important for our healthy life. Medical research also suggests that the gut microbiome is connected to the brain. Also, the most important nerve in the body called the vagus nerve starts in the brain and goes to the stomach which plays an important role in our stress response- flight, and fight signals. This is called the gut-brain axis and it plays an important role in our endocrine system- regulating various hormones and their responses. This article discusses in detail the impact of the gut microbiome on the physical and mental health of the individual. The role of prebiotics, probiotics and psychobiotics on a person’s health is discussed here. It also discusses the various research based evidence on enhancing mental health through a balanced diet.