The gut-brain axis is a two-way feedback loop, with gut health impacting the brain and nervous system, from the bottom up; and the brain and nervous system impacting on gut health, from the top down.Join Nervous System School’s Jessica Maguire and Madeleine Eliza to unpack this connection, and the important role of the vagus nerve in the communication between the gut and the brain.We know that 80% of the messages travelling between the brain and body via the vagus nerve are coming from the bottom up, including from the gut. We explore the impact of the microbiome on overall brain health including emotional regulation and cognition.This conversation also unpacks the many ways in which the state of one’s nervous system can impact gut health, either positively or negatively; and the interconnectedness of the digestive, immune and endocrine systems.Takeaways• The gut-brain axis is a communication pathway between the gut and the brain that influences overall health and well-being.• The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in this communication, sending signals from the gut to the brain and back again.• Lifestyle choices, such as sleep, exercise, and diet, can impact gut health and the functioning of the gut-brain axis.• Regulation of the nervous system is key to improving the brain-body connection and cultivating a healthy gut microbiome.If you enjoy the show, the best way you can support it is by following, rating and reviewing Neuroplasticity Nerds wherever you get your podcasts to help spread the word!And if you’d like to dive deeper into the foundational concept of Interoception, grab our free downloadable worksheet at www.nervoussystemschool.com/gutDisclaimer