Why the gut is known as the second brain

• The gut-brain axis is bidirectional: the gastrointestinal system actively influences emotional and psychological states, rather than merely responding to central nervous system signals
• Understanding the gut's neurobiological influence could inform integrated approaches to managing conditions with overlapping gastrointestinal and psychological symptoms

Your gut doesn't just respond to your brain - it helps shape your emotions. Professor of Biomolecular Medicine Jon Swann explains why.

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