Facts About the Intestines Called the Second Brain: Here's the Explanation

Facts about the intestine called the second brain (Image KamranAydinov-Magnific)

YOGYAKARTA - Have you ever felt a stomachache when you are nervous or anxious? The response is not a coincidence. The intestine has a complex nerve network that continues to work. The network is called the enteric nervous system or ENS. Because of its ability, the intestine is often nicknamed the second brain.

Knowing the facts about the intestine called the second brain is very useful. The relationship between the intestine and the brain affects digestion and stress response. However, the nickname does not mean that the intestine can think. The term describes the independence of the nerves in the digestive tract.

Why is the gut called the second brain?

The enteric nervous system is along the walls of the digestive tract. This network consists of neurons and supporting cells. The ENS regulates food movement, secretion, absorption, and blood flow. Many of these processes take place without human conscious command.

The brain remains the main control center of the body. However, the ENS is able to carry out digestive reflexes independently. This ability gives birth to the nickname of the second brain. So, this term is scientific, but not literally.

Facts About the Intestines Called the Second Brain

1. The Gut and the Brain Send Messages to Each Other

The gut doesn't work alone in the body. The gut communicates through a system called the gut-brain axis. This communication goes both ways every day. The pathway involves the vagus nerve, hormones, immunity, and blood flow.

The brain can affect the movement and sensitivity of the intestines. The condition of the intestine also sends signals to the brain. That's why stress often triggers nausea or diarrhea. Digestive disorders can increase emotional discomfort.

2. The Role of the Microbiota in the Gut-Brain Axis

Trillions of microorganisms live in the human digestive tract. The collection is known as the gut microbiota. Microorganisms help process food and produce metabolites. Some metabolites interact with the nervous and immune systems.

The composition of the microbiota is different in every person. Diet, drugs, age, and environment affect it. Research continues to test its relationship with brain function. However, the relationship is very complex and not fully understood.

Claims regarding probiotics must be approached with caution. Not all products provide the same benefits. The effect depends on the type of microbe and the user's condition. Probiotics are not a substitute for a doctor's diagnosis or treatment.

3. The intestines produce a lot of serotonin in the body

Serotonin is a fact about the intestine called the second brain. Much of the body's serotonin is formed in the digestive tract. The compound helps intestinal movement and other body functions. However, intestinal serotonin does not directly enter the brain tissue.

The blood-brain barrier limits the movement of serotonin from the body's circulation. Intestinal serotonin is not a simple happiness button. Mood is influenced by many biological and social factors. A healthy gut does not automatically prevent depression or anxiety.

4. Stress Can Be Felt Directly on the Stomach

When stressed, the body activates a neural and hormonal response. This response changes the movement, secretion, and sensitivity of the intestine. As a result, the stomach can feel bloated, painful, or heartburn. Symptoms can be different for each person.

The relationship explains the disturbance of the interaction between the intestine and the brain. An example is irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia. These conditions are real, not just the result of thoughts. Medical examination is still needed to determine the cause.

How to Maintain Intestinal Health

Maintaining the intestines does not require extreme eating patterns. Start with a diverse and fiber-rich diet. Choose vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains. Increase fiber slowly so that the body can adapt. Drink water according to the body's needs. Physical activity also helps digestive function. Get enough sleep to support stress management and eating habits. Limit ultra-processed foods that are consumed too often. Small changes are easier to maintain than strict rules. Consistency helps the body adjust to new patterns. Observe personal responses after food changes. Stop steps that worsen complaints, then consult a doctor. Avoid using antibiotics without medical guidance. Antibiotics are useful for some bacterial infections. However, the drug can affect the balance of the microbiome. Antibiotics also do not work against viral infections.

When Should You Check Yourself?

Immediately seek medical help when danger signs appear. Watch out for blood in the stool or vomit. Pay attention to weight loss without a clear reason. Severe pain, fever, and dehydration require examination.

Repeated complaints should not be treated alone. Record food, stress, medication, and time of symptoms. The notes help the doctor understand the pattern of complaints. Avoid using microbiome tests for self-diagnosis.

This is the fact about the intestine which is called the second brain. The intestine has its own nerves and two-way communication. The microbiota also plays a role in the communication network. However, many of its mechanisms are still being studied.

Treat the intestines through healthy eating patterns and habits. Listen to your body without easily believing exaggerated claims. Intestinal health supports comfort as well as digestive function. See a medical professional when complaints continue to settle. Who would have thought that Colon Cancer is Now Experienced by Many in Their 20s

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