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Christ-Centered Functional Medicine Specializing in Endocrine Health
gut health
Gut & Brain axis
The gut-brain axis refers to the complex and bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the brain. This connection plays a key role in how our gut health influences mental and emotional well-being, and vice versa. In functional medicine, the gut-brain axis is seen as central to many health issues, particularly those involving mood, stress, cognitive function, and chronic disease. The gut and brain communicate with each other through a complex system. The gut houses approximately 80 percent of our immune system within the largest collection of lymphoid. Along with hormonal component and a chemical/immunological component, there is also communication via the nervous system. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network that links the gastrointestinal system to the brain through neural pathways, hormones, and immune signals. The gut contains its own nervous system, known as the enteric nervous system, which communicates with the brain via the vagus nerve. This connection means that stress, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can impact gut function, and gut imbalances—such as dysbiosis or leaky gut—can affect brain function, mood, and cognitive health. In fact, 90% of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is produced in the gut, which underscores how crucial gut health is to mental well-being.The gut-brain axis illustrates the deep connection between gut health and mental well-being. In functional medicine, maintaining a healthy gut is seen as critical not just for physical health but for emotional and cognitive health as well. By addressing gut imbalances, inflammation, and stress, the gut-brain axis can be supported, leading to improved mood, cognition, and overall wellness.
