Careful! How gut bacteria are controlling our brains

Taking care of the many bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that live in the gut can help us think better and protect our mental health.

The intestines are like a group of aliens full of life and lushness. There are trillions of microorganisms in the gut and they are of different types.

Many of these microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukarya, existed long before humans and have evolved with us.

John Cryan, professor of anatomy and neuroscience at University College Cork, says: "When you go to the bathroom and get some of these germs out, you just think: We're becoming more human."

These microbial legions are known as the "microbiota" and play a crucial role in our physical health, from digestion and metabolism to immunity. They also produce vital compounds that the human body cannot produce on its own, reports the BBC .

But what role do they play in our minds?

Over the past few decades, researchers have uncovered compelling evidence to suggest that the gut microbiota not only helps keep our brains running by helping to release nutrients, but may also help shape our thoughts and behavior.

According to the researchers, these microbiota could potentially strengthen the way we understand and could lead to new treatments for a range of mental health problems, from depression and anxiety to schizophrenia.