The brain-gut-microbiota axis (BGMA) can be considered as a bidirectional axis between the brain and the gut, also called “gut brain”. These two systems influence each other by several mechanisms including the nervous, circulatory and hormonal systems. That is why it is often said that the abdominal brain acts as the “second brain” of the human body!
In the gut, we have what is called the “microbiota”, a grouping of several bacteria, microbes, fungi and viruses that live inside our digestive system. Although this is normal in humans, some bacteria are considered “good” bacteria, while others are considered “bad” bacteria. Too much accumulation of bad bacteria can lead to a state of “dysbiosis” and cause inflammation and degradation of intestinal tissues (in other words, an increase of intestinal porosity). This state of dysbiosis can have several harmful effects on the body. The microbiota can influence the production of neurotransmitters in the brain by various nervous pathways (including the vagus nerves and phrenic nerves), which illustrates the connection between the brain and the gut brain.
Stress and inflammation
Stress has a significant impact on the immune defense and the inflammatory loop. Indeed, a state of chronic stress leads to the release of stress hormones (cortisol) which influences the porosity of the intestine. A porous intestine allows metabolites (coming from microbiota bacteria) to pass more easily, which can create local and global inflammation. Thus, the immune system is activated to limit inflammation. This may create a significant state of fatigue for the system, especially when this loop becomes chronic. It is therefore important to decrease stress and digestive inflammation in order to reduce the body’s general inflammatory state, which will have an effect on the immune system, the state of fatigue and the health of the client.
Mental health
The digestive system and mental health are closely linked. The microbiota can indeed influence the mental state through the secretion of neurotransmitters, which can lead to states of anxiety, depression or emotional disorders. In addition, 95% of our serotonin is secreted in the intestine! So, by treating the digestive system, we have a direct impact on the secretion of this neuromodulator which plays a role in regulating mood, pain perception, sleep cycle, appetite and much more… mental health is therefore very connected to our digestive system!
What about osteopathy?
Osteopaths can use several cranial, nervous and visceral techniques to regulate the client’s digestive and overall inflammation. Osteopathy is relevant for patients suffering from digestive disorders, chronic inflammation, chronic stress and anxiety. Although diet plays a key role in the composition of the microbiota, digestive tensions can also contribute to an imbalance and lead to uncomfortable symptoms that can be treated with osteopathy.
During a treatment focusing on the brain-gut-microbiota axis, the osteopath will evaluate the most restricted areas and will work on these structures through manual therapy. These can include visceral structures (intestines, colon, stomach, liver), nervous structures (vagus nerves, phrenic nerves, splanchnic nerves), musculoskeletal structures (vertebrae, skull) and much more, always with the goal of regaining mobility and promoting health!
For any questions regarding the brain-gut-microbiota axis, do not hesitate to contact Éliane Bussière, osteopath! 😊
