(Anna Hunt) It is becoming widely known that gut bacteria influence much more than our digestive process. The bacteria living in the digestive system impact our general health. Furthermore, scientists are now discovering that this influence goes beyond physical health. A study out of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) discovered evidence that gut microbes affect our emotions. Specifically, they impact how we respond to fear.
Related: Rhythm of Breathing Key to Controlling Fear and Emotional Behavior
Source – Waking Times
by Anna Hunt, August 4th, 2017
Study Proves Brain and Gut Microbe Interactions
In their study, UCLA researchers examined fecal samples of 40 women to identify their gut microbiome. In addition, these women were hooked up to an MRI scanner and then shown images designed to provoke an emotional response. The study identified two types of gut bacteria that potentially impact the brain areas associated with mood and general behavior.
First, the scientists found Prevotella to be common in seven of the women. “The Prevotella group showed less hippocampal activity viewing negative valences images.” The hippocampus regulates emotions, consciousness and memories. Women in this first group had profoundly negative emotions associated with distress and anxiety when viewing negative images.
On the other hand, Bacterioids were prevalent in the other 33 women. In the imaging analysis, “the Bacteroides cluster showed greater prominence in the cerebellum, frontal regions, and the hippocampus.” We associate the frontal regions of the brain with problem-solving and more complex processing. The results showed that women in this group were less emotional when viewing undesirable images.
Consequently, MRI imaging in this study shows that certain gut bacteria influence the physical structure of the brain. The researchers believe their study supports the concept of brain-gut-microbe interactions in healthy humans.
Cryan’s study added to the growing evidence that signals from beneficial bacteria nonetheless find a way through the barrier. Somehow — though his 2011 paper could not pinpoint exactly how — micro-organisms in the gut tickle a sensory nerve ending in the fingerlike protrusion lining the intestine and carry that electrical impulse up the vagus nerve and into the deep-brain structures thought to be responsible for elemental emotions like anxiety. (source)
In brief, neuroscience continues to confirm that a connection between the brain and gut bacteria exists. Although we don’t yet know the specifics, it’s safe to say that a healthy gut may help balance mood and affects how we respond to emotional situations.
About the Author
Anna Hunt is the founder of AwarenessJunkie.com, an online community paving the way to better health, a balanced life, and personal transformation. She is also the co-editor and staff writer for WakingTimes.com. Anna is a certified Hatha yoga instructor and founder of Atenas Yoga Center. She enjoys raising her three children and being a voice for optimal human health and wellness. Visit her essential oils store here.
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