You’ve probably heard the phrase “go with your gut”—but did you know that’s more than just a saying?
There’s real science behind how your gut and brain are in constant communication.
Understanding this can explain so much about your mood, digestion,
and even those mystery symptoms you may have been managing for years.
Let’s break it down together.
How do your gut and brain “talk” to each other?
Your gut and brain are constantly sending signals back and forth—like text messages, but through your nervous system and body chemistry.
Here are the 3 main ways they stay in touch:
The Vagus Nerve
Think of this as a phone line that runs between your brain and your belly. When you’re stressed, your brain can send “emergency” messages to your gut, which might explain that sudden stomach cramp or urge to run to the bathroom.
Brain Chemicals (neurotransmitters)
Your gut actually helps make important mood chemicals like serotonin (the “feel-good” one), dopamine (your motivation booster), and GABA (which helps you feel calm).
That’s why poor gut health can sometimes show up as low mood, brain fog, or anxiety.
Gut bacteria (microbes)
Trillions of tiny bacteria live in your gut, and they’re not just hanging out. They produce signals that affect how your body handles stress, sleep, inflammation, and even how you think and feel.
So, if you’ve ever wondered:
“Why do I feel anxious after eating certain foods?”
“Why do my digestion and mood seem to crash at the same time?”
“Why can’t I seem to think clearly or stay focused lately?”
You're not alone—and you’re definitely not imagining things.
Your mind and body are in constant communication, and your gut is one of the most important messengers in that dialogue.
This isn’t just fascinating science—it’s something you may have already felt in your body, even if you didn’t have the words for it.
4 gentle shifts to support your gut-brain connection
1. Eat more whole, fiber-rich foods
Think fruits, veggies, fermented foods (like kimchi, kefir, yogurt), and prebiotic-rich foods (like onions, garlic, and oats).
2. Support your nervous system
Deep breathing, gentle movement, and grounding practices like meditation or journaling all help calm the vagus nerve.
3. Stay hydrated and sleep well
Two underrated tools that help regulate digestion and balance your body’s stress response.
4. Consider quality supplements
A good probiotic can make a difference, but be sure to choose one that’s right for your unique body. (I’m happy to share recommendations if you’re not sure where to start.)
Now, here’s something to reflect on:
"What if the symptoms you’ve been managing aren’t just physical or just emotional… but both?"
You’re not broken—your body is communicating with you in the only way it knows how.
And now, with a better understanding of how your gut and brain are connected, you have a powerful new lens to look through.
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Here's to a healthy gut,
Susan Ritter, Shaklee Ambassador
Wellness Guide
https://www.susanritterwellness.net