Gut over Mind: Exploring the Powerful Gut-Brain Axis

Abstract

Background: The human gastrointestinal tract is home to a wide variety of microorganisms. For some decades now, bacteria known as probiotics have been added to various foods because of their beneficial effects for human health. Evidence indicates that probiotics significantly regulate gut microbiota, which is vital for digestion, metabolism, immune function, and mental health. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of available original research published in PubMed for the past ten years focusing on recent advancements that provide a thorough understanding of the relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the brain. Results: Recent advances in research have focused on the importance of gut microbiota in influencing mental health. The microbiota-gut-brain axis is a complex, bidirectional communication network linking the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, which highlights how the gut and brain are deeply interconnected and influence each other in ways that affect our overall health, emotions, and behavior. This powerful link is a major area of research as scientists discover more about how gut health can impact mental well-being. Conclusions: A comprehensive understanding of microbiota composition and mechanisms involved in these interactions between the gut and the brain could shape future medical and therapeutic approaches. It would balance scientific explanation with clinical relevance, offering insights into how understanding the brain-gut axis can revolutionize our approach to treating mental health and gastrointestinal disorders.

Keywords: gastrointestinal tract; gut–brain axis; mental health; microbiota; probiotics.