Have you ever had a “gut feeling” about something? Well, the science behind that gut feeling is called the second brain.

Yes, that’s right, you have a second brain in your gut, also known as the enteric nervous system (ENS) and it is a nodal structure that consists of over 100 million nerve cells, which innervate the gastrointestinal tract.

The Science Behind the Second Brain

Scientists have discovered that the ENS is composed of the same tissue types and neurotransmitters found in the brain, and can function independently of the central nervous system (CNS), which is the brain and spinal cord that make up the primary nervous system. Actually, the ENS receives neural messages from both our central nervous system and our external environment.

Functions of the Second Brain

The second brain is not just a bunch of neurons in our gut, but a complex system integrating our gut microbes, immune system and the endocrine system to function properly.

The ENS manages bowel functions including digestion, absorption of nutrients, and bowel movement regulation. One of the key roles of the ENS is to communicate with the brain to regulate digestion and immune function through a two-way street called the gut-brain axis.

The Causes of Imbalanced Second Brain

The truth is that there are many factors that can affect the health and function of the second brain. Some of the key factors that cause an imbalanced ENS include stress, dietary imbalances, toxins, and gut inflammation caused by food sensitivities, poor digestion, and infections such as yeast, bacteria and viruses.

We are also noticing a relationship between the gut microbiome and the ENS. Studies show that stress hormones and toxins can reduce beneficial bacterial strains in the gut which are linked with neurotransmitter and hormone function, leaving bad bacteria to proliferate and eventually damage the gut.

Effects of an Imbalanced ENS

If the second brain is imbalanced or not functioning properly, it can lead to multiple symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea.

An unhealthy gut can also affect your mood, memory, and sleep with studies showing that the gut-brain axis can affect mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. An unhealthy ENS has also been found to be linked to chronic diseases such as IBS, SIBO, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Stress and the Second Brain

Stress is one of the leading causes of an unhealthy second brain. The ENS can be highly affected by the quality and quantity of stress we are exposed to regularly. Stress and anxiety increase the production of cortisol, greatly affecting the microbiome.

Cortisol decreases naturally occurring beneficial bacteria in the gut, leaving room for harmful bacteria to grow and damage the gut’s lining. The systemic impact of stress can also cause an increase in inflammation, leading to further problems with the gut-brain axis.

Diet and the Second Brain

The food we eat also has a significant impact on the function of the second brain. A diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and processed food will damage the structure and function of the ENS.

Lack of fiber in the diet can also lead to poor digestion and constipation which may ultimately lead to damage in the gut. Food intolerances also can cause damage to the gut, leading to an inflammation and possible permeability of the gut lining, which is called leaky gut.

All of these conditions will eventually lead to chronic illness and are likely to distort and disrupt the function of the brain-gut axis.

The Role of Toxins

Toxins can be introduced to our bodies from our external environment, but also can be produced internally by harmful bacteria in the gut. These toxins like, mold and heavy metals can affect both the brain and the gut systems in our bodies.

Pesticides and glyphosate, commonly used in food, are also linked to an extra burdensome load on both tissues as well as on the immune system. These toxins can disturb gut-lining integrity, decrease enzyme activity, and disrupt the gut-brain axis by reducing beneficial bacteria in the gut leading to health problems that could become chronic.

Ways to Improve Second Brain Health

There are several ways to improve the health of your second brain like increasing fiber intake, reducing stress and restfulness habits, intake of prebiotic-rich foods, and avoiding trigger foods.

It is important to consume probiotic-rich food along with fiber to restore beneficial bacteria in the gut. Engaging in stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, and exercise can also reduce the amount of cortisol produced by the body and maintain a healthy, balanced gut.

The Takeaway

The fact that our gut has a direct relationship with our nervous system is still a new concept. Taking care of the second brain is as important as taking good care of your brain.

As with all aspects of self-care, we must begin practicing habits that promote a healthy lifestyle and a balanced gut microbiome, soothing our enteric nervous system and supporting our bodies as a whole.