7 Unknown Facts about Gut

Gut is a highly intelligent organ. It may be more of a thinker than you know. Scientists call it the second brain. No wonder gut feeling gets its due notice. Gut is not only responsible for providing energy to each and every cell in our body but is also responsible for overall well being and emotions.

Fact 1: Gut has a brain of its own

There are over 100 million neurons in the gut, as many as there are in the head of the cat

Fact 2: Most of the serotonin (the feel good hormone) is present in the gut

95% of the serotonin is found in the gut. No wonder antibiotics, diet and medications can influence one's mood

Fact 3: You can eat upside down

When you eat something a wave like motion is generated in the esophagus due to contractions and expansions. This pushes the food into stomach. It is difficult to eat upside down but possible

Fact 4: Microbiome (micro-organisms that live in our gut) make up to 4-6 pounds of body weight

There are 10 times more microbes living in the body than the human cells

Fact 5: There is a link between autism and bacterial diversity in the gut

 Research shows that altering bacterial diversity in the gut through specific diets may help to treat Autism and hyperactivity

Fact 6: Leaky gut (an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the gut) contribute to a wide range of health issues

Autoimmune diseases like Crohn's, Colitis, Multiple Sclerosis, systemic lupus and so on may arise or exacerbate from leaky gut.

Fact 7: Stress can mess up your gut