Your Second Brain Is in Your Belly: The Gut-Brain Axis Explained

Ever get a “gut feeling” about something? Or notice how a stressful day at work suddenly turns into a mysterious stomach ache? That’s not just your imagination or an excuse to eat comfort food. Welcome to the wonderfully weird world of the gut-brain axis - where your brain and your belly are constantly chatting behind your back (and possibly gossiping about your lunch choices).

So… what is the gut-brain axis?
In simple terms, the gut-brain axis is the communication superhighway between your brain and your gastrointestinal system. It’s like a WhatsApp group chat between your neurons and your intestines, with your gut microbes chiming in regularly.

This two-way connection links your central nervous system (which includes your brain) and your enteric nervous system (your “second brain” - a complex web of over 100 million nerve cells in the walls of your digestive tract). These two systems exchange messages via nerves, hormones, and even immune signals. One of the star players here is the Vagus nerve, which acts like a VIP express line between the gut and the brainstem.

Wait… did you say "second brain"?
Yep. Your gut has so many neurons that scientists often call it the “second brain.” It doesn’t write novels or ponder the meaning of life, but it does play a huge role in how you feel, both physically and emotionally.

This second brain isn’t just along for the ride - it can operate independently of the brain in your head, managing digestion on its own. And get this: about 90% of the serotonin in your body (that’s the feel-good neurotransmitter) is actually made in your gut. So, if your gut’s not happy, chances are your mood might not be either.

Microbes with megaphones
Here's where it gets even weirder - your gut is home to trillions of microbes, collectively called the gut microbiome. These little beauties (bacteria, viruses, fungi) help digest your food, produce vitamins, and even influence your thoughts and emotions.

Some researchers believe certain gut bacteria can impact anxiety, depression, and even decision-making. One 2011 study found that mice given a specific probiotic became less anxious - and when researchers blocked the Vagus nerve, the effect disappeared. Translation: microbes might be texting your brain.

So, why does it matter?
Because understanding this gut-brain hotline might help us tackle a whole menu of modern ailments, from IBS and bloating to depression, anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.

Think of it this way: if your gut is a garden, what you plant (aka eat), how you manage stress, and even how you sleep can change the entire ecosystem - which then changes what your brain hears.

Gut-check: What you can do
If you're suddenly feeling like your breakfast might be judging your mental health, don’t panic. Supporting your gut-brain axis doesn’t require a PhD or a kombucha addiction. Here are a few simple tips:

•    Eat more fibre (your microbes love it like it's cake).
•    Avoid ultra-processed food (your microbes… definitely don’t love it!).
•    Get good sleep (your gut clocks in on night shifts).
•    Try probiotics or fermented foods (think yogurt, kimchi, kefir).
•    Practice stress management (yes, mindfulness is good for your microbiome).
•    Take a good supplement like our NutriGreens gummies.  Each vegan, sugar-free and gluten-free gummy is packed full of all the good stuff your gut is craving. 
•    Make sure you stay well hydrated. Our Enhanced Hydration for Gut Health sachets are super easy to carry with you and add to water for a daily gut treat. This electrolyte and vitamin drink is delicious and really effective helping manage stressed-out and tricky tummies.

So the next time your gut says “nope,” it might be worth listening. Because in the weird and wonderful science of the gut-brain axis, your belly isn’t just digesting lunch - it’s helping shape your thoughts, moods, and maybe even your destiny.

Isn’t that a gut-punch of a revelation?

Don’t just take our word for it. Check out our consumer reviews for the NutriGreens gummies here.