Stress and the gut microbiota-brain axis

Abstract

The gut microbiota-brain axis is a complex system that links the bacteria in our gut with our brain, it plays a part in what way we respond to stress. This chapter explores how stress affects the types of bacteria in the gut and shows the two-way connection between them. Stress can change the bacteria in our gut, which can cause various problems related to stress, like depression, anxiety, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Figuring out how these interactions may help us develop new treatments that focus on the connection between gut bacteria and the brain. This chapter looks at how gut bacteria could help identify stress-related problems. It also discusses the difficulties and possibilities of using this research in medical practice. In the end, the chapter talks about what comes next in this quickly changing area. It highlights how important it is to include research about the gut-brain connection in overall public health plans.

Keywords: Gut microbiota-brain axis; HPA axis; Microbiota dysbiosis; Stress response; Stress-related disorders.