Gut-to-Brain or Brain-to-Gut axis – terms I hear frequently when supervising student clinic and indeed I use in discussion with my own clients. While there is a common understanding that the brain-gut pathways are bi-directional, recent research indicates it might be important to clarify the impact of this bidirectional pathway. Does the brain have a stronger influence on the gut and creating, for example IBS-like symptoms or is the gut driving our brain, leading to anxiety, depression and mood changes? Importantly, whatever the case, does this impact on how we manage treatment?

Healing Stewed Apple

Diarrhoea or constipation, abdominal pain and bloating are symptoms commonly associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This conditions affects up to 15% of individuals at some time in their life and is frequently associated with anxiety, stress and poor emotional well-being. The gut symptoms, emotional impact and inflammation associated with IBS can lead to chronic pain and a poorer quality of life in general. What is surprising is that even the fear of gut symptoms has adverse consequences and can have a significant impact on an individual’s day-to-day life.