There is more to what is happening in your gut than you know.
- theconsciousnaturo
- Feb 22, 2023
- 2 min read
The intestinal microbiota is known to produce a wide variety of neuroactive molecules that can influence the gut-brain axis and potentially impact sleep, appetite, cognition and mood.
Some of the key neuroactive molecules produced by intestinal microbiota include:
Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs): These are produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut bacteria, and can act on G-protein coupled receptors in the gut and brain. SCFAs, such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, have been shown to modulate immune function, glucose homeostasis, and central nervous system function.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and anxiety. Some strains of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been shown to produce GABA.
Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. A significant amount (roughly 95%) of serotonin is produced in the gut, and the gut microbiota has been shown to play a major role in regulating serotonin levels.
Dopamine: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in reward-motivated behavior. Some bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been shown to produce dopamine.
Histamine: Histamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness. Some strains of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, have been shown to produce histamine.
Neurotransmitter precursors: Intestinal bacteria can also produce precursors to neurotransmitters, such as tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin, and tyrosine, which is a precursor to dopamine.
These neuroactive molecules produced by intestinal microbiota have been shown to have a wide range of effects on the brain and behavior, and their study is an active area of research in the field of microbiome research. This bring great excitement for me, a naturopath that is very passionate in all things gut-brain related.
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