In the past few years the gut-brain-immune axis has become a key focus of research. This shows the powerful interactions between the digestive system, nervous system and immune system. Understanding this interconnected network can help manage many health problems, from mood disorders to cognitive decline.
The good news is that certain supplements, such as ozonated oil, vitamins B6, D3, and K2, have beneficial effects on this complex communication network. Let´s explore how the gut-brain immune axis works and how these specific supplements help maintain balance.
Understanding the gut-brain-immune axis
The gut-brain-immune axis is an interesting concept that highlights the powerful connections between the digestive, nervous and immune systems. Recent research shows how closely these three systems work together for our overall health and well-being. Let’s take a look at how this interconnected network works.
The gut-brain immune axis is a communication pathway that connects the gut, brain, and immune system. Often referred to as the “second brain,” the gut contains trillions of microorganisms known as the gut microbiome. It plays an important role in regulating digestion immune system response and even how the brain works.
The connection between the gut and brain is largely mediated by the vagus nerve which sends signals between the brain and intestines. This two-way communication helps regulate processes such as digestion, mood, and immune system function.
The connection between the gut and brain is mainly through the vagus nerve, which sends signals between the brain and intestines. This 2-way communication helps regulate processes such as digestion, mood, and immune system function. The immune system also plays an important role. The majority of immune cells reside in the intestines. These immune cells respond to changes in the gut microbiome. It sends signals to the brain and other parts of the body.
Bidirectional communication of microbial gut brain axis. The brain, gut, and microbiome constitute three nodes in bidirectional communication. Immune system, vagus nerve system, neuroendocrine system, circulatory system and enteric nervous system are the main ways of bidirectional communication. Source: “Review of microbiota gut brain axis and innate immunity in inflammatory and infective diseases”, Chongshan Yuan et al, 4Oct23.
The gut affects the brain
The gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which directly affect mood and cognition. In fact, approximately 90% of serotonin is produced in the intestines. This means that gut health can have a significant impact on mental health, such as anxiety, depression and even cognitive functions
When the intestines are not balanced a condition called dysbiosis can cause increased inflammation, chemical changes in the brain and symptoms such as brain fog and mood changes and fatigue. Stress can also interfere with gut health which can cause many different ailment such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other disorders, often related to anxiety and stress.
The role of the immune system
The gut is home to 70-80% of immune cells, which play an important role in regulating the immune responses. It maintains a balance between the body’s defense mechanisms and resistance to hazardous substances.
But when the intestinal barrier is damaged (a condition called leaky gut) harmful substances can enter the bloodstream and trigger an immune response. This causes inflammation and greatly increases the risk of autoimmune disease. This immune response can send signals to the brain and affect mood and mental health. Chronic inflammation in particular has been linked to mental health conditions such as depression.
Image credit: Google.
What happens when the gut-brain immune axis is disrupted?
When there is an imbalance in the immune axis of the gut and brain it can manifest itself in physical and mental health problems. Some common conditions associated with disturbances on this axis are:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A disorder of the gut and brain in which stress and emotional changes aggravate gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Depression and Anxiety. Dysbiosis and chronic enteritis are associated with mood disorders. and may have a negative effect on mental health.
- Autoimmune diseases. Disorders such as arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involve dysregulation of the immune system in the gut.
- Cognitive impairment. Chronic inflammation and poor gut health are associated with cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
How ozonated oil and vitamins B6, D3 and K2 support the gut-brain immune axis
The gut-brain immune axis is a complex network that connects the gut, brain, and immune system. Imbalances in this axis can lead to problems such as inflammation, mood disorders and immune system disorders. Specific dietary supplements, such as ozonated oil containing vitamin B6, vitamin D3, and vitamin K2, can help balance this axis:
- Ozonated oil. Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, ozonated oil promotes intestinal health by restoring intestinal integrity and reducing harmful pathogens. By supporting the gut, it helps prevent inflammation that can interfere with gut-brain communication.
- Vitamin B6. Essential for the production of neurotransmitters, vitamin B6 supports serotonin and dopamine levels. This is critical to emotional and cognitive functioning. It also helps in regulating the immune system and helps control inflammation.
- Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is a powerful immune modulator. It promotes a balanced immune response, reduces intestinal permeability and prevents inflammation of the nervous system. It is important for gut and brain health.
- Vitamin K2. Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, K2 reduces inflammation throughout the body. This can improve brain function and support gut health by regulating the immune system.
Incorporating these supplements into your daily routine can help support a healthy gut-brain immune axis which strengthens digestion, mental clarity and a strong immune system.
How to support the gut-brain immune axis
Maintaining a balanced gut-brain-immune axis is quite important for maintaining a healthy gut. Here’s how to support this important network:
- Balanced diet. Try moving to a Mediterranean diet rich in fiber, fruits, whole grains, vegetables, olive oil and minimize the ingestion of processed foods. Fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi are also extremely beneficial for intestinal health.
- Stress. Chronic stress can impair gut health and the immune function. Incorporate stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, and meditation to support the gut-brain connection
- Exercise. Regular exercise is good for gut health and mental health by promoting beneficial bacteria and reducing inflammation
- Prioritize sleep. Little sleep can negatively impact the gut microbiome and increase inflammation. Adults should get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
- Consider taking probiotics. Probiotic supplements, such as the ones indicated above, can help restore gut balance especially during times of stress.
REFERENCES
Gut-Brain-Immune Axis
- Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: The impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 13(10), 701–712.
- Mayer, E. A., Knight, R., Mazmanian, S. K., Cryan, J. F., & Tillisch, K. (2014). Gut microbes and the brain: Paradigm shift in neuroscience. The Journal of Neuroscience, 34(46), 15490–15496.
- Sampson, T. R., & Mazmanian, S. K. (2015). Control of brain development, function, and behaviour by the microbiome. Cell Host & Microbe, 17(5), 565–576.
Ozonated Oil
- Valacchi, G., Fortino, V., & Bocci, V. (2005). The dual action of ozone on the skin. British Journal of Dermatology, 153(6), 1096–1100.
- Bocci, V., Borrelli, E., Zanardi, I., & Travagli, V. (2011). The ozone paradox: Ozone is a strong oxidant as well as a medical drug. Medicinal Research Reviews, 31(5), 607–618.
Vitamin B6
- Dakshinamurti, K. (1990). Role of vitamin B6 in neurotransmitter synthesis. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 274, 127–134.
- Sharma, S., & Singh, R. K. (2012). Role of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) in human health: A review. International Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research, 3(7), 1-9.
Vitamin D3
- Cantorna, M. T., Snyder, L., Lin, Y. D., & Yang, L. (2015). Vitamin D and 1,25(OH)₂D regulation of T cells. Nutrients, 7(4), 3011–3021.
- Holick, M. F. (2007). Vitamin D deficiency. The New England Journal of Medicine, 357(3), 266–281.
Vitamin K2
- Van Summeren, M. J., Braam, L. A., Noirt, F., & Vermeer, C. (2009). The effect of vitamin K supplementation on extra-hepatic vitamin K status in healthy volunteers. British Journal of Nutrition, 102(10), 1627–1632.
- Georgieff, M. K. (2007). Nutrition and the developing brain: Nutrient priorities and measurement. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(2), 614S-620S.
General Resources for the Gut-Immune Connection
- Belkaid, Y., & Hand, T. W. (2014). Role of the microbiota in immunity and inflammation. Cell, 157(1), 121–141.
- Rook, G. A., & Lowry, C. A. (2008). The hygiene hypothesis and psychiatric disorders. Trends in Immunology, 29(4), 150–158.