1. The Gut is Your “Second Brain”
Your gut is sometimes called your “second brain” because it has its own nervous system called the enteric nervous system (ENS). It has around 100 million neurons, which is more than the spinal cord! That’s why your gut can send signals to your brain, making it the reason behind those “gut feelings.”
2. Your Gut Houses Trillions of Microorganisms
There are about 100 trillion bacteria, fungi, and viruses living in your gut! That’s about 10 times the number of cells in your body. And guess what? They play a huge role in your health—digesting food, protecting you from bad bugs, and even influencing your mood.
3. Gut Bacteria Have Their Own Preferences
Gut microbes love variety! The more diverse your diet (especially when it comes to plant-based foods), the happier your gut will be. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes helps promote a diverse microbiome.
4. The Gut-Immune Connection
Did you know about 70% of your immune system is housed in your gut? That’s why gut health is closely tied to your body’s ability to fight off illness. A balanced microbiome can help regulate immune responses, while an imbalanced one might contribute to autoimmune conditions.
5. Your Gut Influences Your Mood
If you’ve ever felt “butterflies” in your stomach before a big event, you’ve felt the gut-brain connection in action. Serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is primarily produced in the gut. So a happy gut often means a happier you!
