by Lady Carla Davis, MPH
Specializing in Nutrition
In Harmony with Nature
KRAUT GARDEN SALAD FOR THE GUT
nourishing basics
Many people don’t realize that the gut actually contains more nerves than the brain. In fact, there are more than 100 million nerve cells lining the gastrointestinal tract from esophagus to the rectum alone.
The biochemical signalling that takes place between the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) and the central nervous system (CNS), or the relationship between the GI tract and brain function and development is called the gut-brain axis. It consists of the CNS, neuroendocrine and neuro-immune systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis), sympathetic and parasympathetic arms of the autonomic nervous system that include the enteric nervous system, the vagus nerve, and the gut microbiota. The brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system are also part of the CNS.
Normally, the gut communicates with the CNS through the parasympathetic nervous system, via the vagus nerve and the sympathetic nervous system, via the prevertebral ganglia. So, in essence, the gut dictates how the brain thinks.
The enteric nervous system is one of the main divisions of the nervous system. It consists of a mesh-like system of neurons that govern the function of the gastrointestinal system. It is also known as a “second brain” for good reason and can operate autonomously. (Neurons are nervous system components or nerve cells that transmit nerve impulses).
The enteric nervous system also makes use of over 30 neurotransmitters, most of which are identical to the ones found in the CNS, including the brain. They include acetylcholine, dopamine, and serotonin. More than 90% of the body’s serotonin and about 50% of the body’s dopamine lie in the gut. The duel function of these neurotransmitters is an active part of gut-brain research.
Enteroendocrine cells send hormonal messages to the CNS to control many hormonal functions. They can tell you when you are hungry or full. They can also activate your sense of smell and taste faster than a blink of an eye. The first gut-brain interactions are between sight and smell of food and the release of gastric secretions, known as the cephalic response of digestion. Through intestinal muscles, the motor neurons control peristalsis and churning of intestinal contents. Other neurons control the secretions of enzymes. Neurons can also drive motivation and increase pleasure.
The gut flora, or microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of both humans and animals. It contains the largest quantity of bacteria and greatest number of species compared to other areas of the body.