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Why do we call the intestines our second brain?

The intestines are an organ whose role in the functioning of our body is often underestimated and insufficiently understood. However, more and more research shows that the gut plays a key role not only in digestion, but also in our overall health and well-being. That is why they are increasingly referred to as “our second brain”. In this article we will find out why this is so and what tasks the enteric nervous system (ENS) performs.

What are the functions of the enteric nervous system (ens)?

The enteric nervous system, or ENS, is a complex nervous system present in our digestive tract. It consists of millions of nerve cells that control many aspects of our intestinal function, from peristalsis, i.e. movements that move food, to the secretion of digestive enzymes. The ENS works independently of our central nervous system, which allows it to coordinate the internal actions of the intestines.

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The most important role of the ENS is to control digestive processes, but this is not the end of its tasks. The intestinal nervous system also influences the secretion of hormones, is responsible for the absorption of nutrients from food and regulates blood flow within the intestines. In addition, the ENS influences our emotional well-being, which is why the intestines are closely related to our mental state.

Scientists are discovering more and more information about the ENS and its role in our body. It turns out that the intestines can influence many aspects of health, including immunity, inflammation, and even the risk of some chronic diseases, such as autoimmune diseases and obesity.

Your suggestions

When it comes to keeping our second brain healthy, there are many suggestions we can implement in our daily lives. Here are a few of them:

Healthy diet: Regular consumption of vegetables, fruit, fiber and probiotics supports healthy intestinal flora and helps maintain balance in the ENS.

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Avoiding stress: Stress can negatively affect the functioning of the intestinal nervous system, so it is worth looking for ways to relax and reduce stress, such as meditation or yoga.

Regular physical activity: Exercise can improve blood circulation in the intestines and help them function properly.

Getting enough sleep: Sleep is extremely important for our overall health, including our gut. Getting regular and deep sleep can help maintain balance in the ENS.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about the enteric nervous system and its impact on our health, I recommend reading the following articles:

>”The role of the intestines in regulating emotions and mood.”

>”How does diet affect the health of the intestinal nervous system?”

>”The relationship between intestinal microflora and our well-being.”

>”The gut and mental health – the latest discoveries.”

>”How to take care of balance in ENS – expert advice.”

To summarize, the intestines are not only a digestive organ, but also an important element of our overall health. The enteric nervous system, or ENS, plays a key role in many processes occurring in our body. Therefore, it is worth taking care of it by following suggestions regarding a healthy diet, stress reduction, physical activity and adequate sleep. Understanding the role of the gut as “our second brain” can help us take better care of our health and well-being.

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