Chapter 4B Flashcards
the gut brain axis
refers to the bidirectional connection that occurs between the CNS and the ENS
roles of the ENS
- coordinate rhythmic muscle contractions that move material done the digestive tract
- regulates gastric acid secretion
- regulates changes in local blood flow
- regulates release of gut hormones.
the vagus nerve
one of the biggest nerves in the body connects brain to organs within the autonomic NS via nerve fibers that directly link to the throat, voice box, windpipe, lungs, heart, esophagus and intestinal tract.
what are gut microbiota involved in
production of some neurotransmitters, which can affect the concentration of related neurotransmitters in the brain.
what is the correlation between high stress and cortisol levels on gut microbiota
high levels of stress plus increased cortisol levels lead to changes in gut microbiota associated with anxiety and depression