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