The gut-brain axis

The gut-brain axis is the link between our brain and our gut, a system of biochemical signalling between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.  The vagus nerve is one of the biggest nerves connecting the gut to the brain often referred to as our second brain. This is why what we eat is so important for both our physical and mental health.

The communication between the brain and gut allows essential functions including digestion and appetite. The cognitive centre of our brain and our emotions are directly related to the health of our microbiome. Astonishingly around 95% of the body’s supply of Serotonin is produced in our gut, Serotonin influences our moods, learning, memory, happiness, sleep and helps to regulate our body’s temperature.

Increasing your fibre intake can alter and improve the bacteria in your microbiome making it healthier and more diverse. Researchers at the American Gut Project found that people who ate more than 30 different plant foods each week had the most diverse microbiomes resulting in better overall health and wellbeing.