StarTalk Radio The Gut-Brain Connection with Emeran Mayer
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Mar 21, 2025 Emeran Mayer, a gastroenterologist and neuroscientist from UCLA, explores the fascinating gut-brain connection. He discusses how our gut influences mental health, particularly the roles of GLP-1 and gut microbiota. The conversation dives into the implications for anxiety and neurological conditions, alongside the importance of holistic approaches in Western medicine. Mayer also unpacks the myths around colonic cleanses, emphasizing our fascination with gut health. It’s a compelling look at how our digestive system is connected to our emotions and overall well-being.
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Gut Complexity and Communication
- The gut is the second most complex organ after the brain, housing 70% of the immune system and a separate nervous system.
- The gut and brain communicate bidirectionally, mirroring emotions and influencing behavior, even unconsciously.
Chuck Nice's Mom's Wisdom
- Chuck Nice's mother told him to wait after eating, saying his stomach would tell his brain he was full.
- This reflects the gut's role in satiety, involving GLP-1 signaling the brain, a mechanism often lost in obesity.
GLP-1 and Satiety
- GLP-1, a molecule naturally produced in the gut, signals satiety to the brain.
- New medications use megadoses of GLP-1 to induce this feeling, showing effectiveness for obesity and substance abuse.