“Over the last five to ten years, research studies have produced an enormous volume of information about the close connection between the gut and the brain, called the enteric nervous system or the “Gut-Brain Axis.”
This system provides a two-way communication between the digestive tract and the central nervous system/brain, affecting everything from mood, stress, and the ability to focus mentally, to various digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, and overeating.
Deeply involved in this connection is the gut microbiome which is made up of trillions of microbes that inhabit the intestinal tract, and the prebiotic foods that they consume. Foremost among these prebiotics are fibers.
As probiotic microbes consume dietary fibers, they produce biochemicals that positively affect the brain. In addition, these biochemicals help control inflammation, maintain the barrier function of the intestines to keep toxins and bacteria from getting into the bloodstream, reduce triglycerides and cholesterol, and help control appetite.”