The Gut-Brain Axis -Part IV
https://www.gottman.com/blog/5-things-zebras-can-teach-us-about-fighting-stress/

The Gut-Brain Axis -Part IV

It is too early in my writing process on LinkedIn to presume I have regular readers but if there are, first, thank you and secondly, if you are wondering why I have zebras instead of the synapse , I'll just get to it in a jiffy.

Today I'll discuss two very important stress hormones that cannot be discussed separately as they are so closely intertwined. These hormones play crucial roles in the body's stress response and are released by the adrenal glands.

Adrenaline and noradrenaline are part of the sympathetic nervous system's response to stress or perceived threats. They are involved in the "fight-or-flight" response, which prepares the body for action in stressful situations. Here's a brief overview of each hormone and their functions:

  1. Adrenaline (Epinephrine): Adrenaline is released in response to stress or danger. It acts as a powerful stimulant, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and the supply of oxygen and glucose to the muscles. Adrenaline also dilates the airways, enhances focus and alertness, and mobilizes stored energy for immediate use. It helps prepare the body for physical exertion, allowing individuals to respond quickly to a perceived threat.
  2. Noradrenaline (Norepinephrine): Noradrenaline works closely with adrenaline and is also involved in the stress response. It acts as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter in the brain. Noradrenaline helps regulate attention, arousal, and alertness. It increases blood pressure and heart rate, narrows blood vessels, and redirects blood flow to vital organs and muscles.

Together, adrenaline and noradrenaline play significant roles in the body's response to stress. They mobilize energy, increase alertness, and prepare the body for immediate action. However, chronic or excessive activation of the stress response can have negative effects on health, including increased risk of cardiovascular problems, impaired immune function, and digestive issues.

Stress, including the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, can impact the gut microbiome. Studies have suggested that stress can alter the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is associated with various gastrointestinal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

Furthermore, the gut microbiome itself can influence the body's stress response. Research in animal models has shown that alterations in the gut microbiota composition can affect stress-related behaviors and the release of stress hormones. Specific microbes in the gut can produce or modulate neurotransmitters and neuroactive compounds that influence mood, cognition, and stress responses.

The Zebras are in the pic because of a book I read forever back. It is entitled "Why zebra's don't get ulcers. " This book is the seminal work of Dr. Robert Sapolsky, a neuroendocrinologist who studied stress in animals. It highlights an important concept. Zebras, like other wild animals, experience acute stress in response to immediate threats, such as predators. However, once the threat is gone, they return to a relaxed state.

In contrast, humans often experience chronic stress due to various factors, such as work pressure, financial worries, and relationship problems. Chronic stress can lead to prolonged activation of the stress response, resulting in elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, this can have detrimental effects on the body, including a weakened immune system, digestive issues, and an increased risk of conditions like ulcers.

The statement about zebras and ulcers serves as a metaphorical example to highlight the negative impact of chronic stress on human health







Dr. Amit Sharma

Writing about Health & Happiness | Founder/CEO of a Cancer Health Advisor | Cancer Scientist | Cell & Gene Therapy expert | Mental health | Public Speaker | Consultant | Investor | Learner |

2 个月

Nice share.

回复
Subi Nanthivarman

Writer, Observer and Muser

1 年

Pratibha Singh interesting. Just by reverting back to a relaxed state ulcers are avoided...can humans do this too....prayer and meditation?

回复
Vinod Dahake

Retires Scientist G & Scientist In charge MERADO Ludhiana CSIR / CMERI and Ex Commander (Indian Navy)

1 年

good. It's knowledge for me about Zebra

要查看或添加评论,请登录

Dr. Pratibha Singh的更多文章

  • Strawberry fields forever...

    Strawberry fields forever...

    Ever heard Simon Sinek talk about starting with the "why"? Well, let me tell you how that played out in my life…

  • Hidden Hunger: Analysis and Correlation with Gut Health

    Hidden Hunger: Analysis and Correlation with Gut Health

    Understanding Hidden Hunger Hidden hunger is the presence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies (particularly iron…

  • Gut health -The perception gap

    Gut health -The perception gap

    When it comes to health and wellness, few topics have garnered as much attention recently as gut health. I too recently…

  • How do I know if my gut health is good?

    How do I know if my gut health is good?

    Gut health is a complex topic involving multiple factors. Lets talk about a few ways to assess and monitor your gut…

    1 条评论
  • Let me introduce you to my tiny gardener

    Let me introduce you to my tiny gardener

    I've been taking my nephew up to our terrace garden for quite some time now. We began our little adventures last winter…

  • Midnight Musings on AI, Authenticity, and Self-Expression

    Midnight Musings on AI, Authenticity, and Self-Expression

    I've been listening to Sleep meditations for a few years now and they usually help me fall asleep quickly. Yesterday…

  • Savouring Memories: A Journey from Delhi's Streets to Heirloom Gardens

    Savouring Memories: A Journey from Delhi's Streets to Heirloom Gardens

    I fondly recall the warm, sunny afternoons, of a winter break in the early 1990s bustling with the sights and sounds of…

    2 条评论
  • Healthful Surprises

    Healthful Surprises

    I'm genuinely amazed at how the same information can hit you differently when it comes from various sources. It's like…

    5 条评论
  • Mary Mary, quite contrary...

    Mary Mary, quite contrary...

    In February 2019, I began a simple yet heartfelt journey. Armed with just two planters and a dream, I set out to grow…

  • An Invitation

    An Invitation

    Over the past few years, I've found myself in need of assistance but struggled to ask for it. How many of us can relate…

社区洞察

其他会员也浏览了