How is the wisdom in the Donguibogam explained by modern science? One of the fields that medical science has focused on most in recent decades is the concept called the gut-brain axis. Beyond merely being an organ responsible for digestion, our gut constantly communicates with the brain, and science has shown that it exerts a profound influence on the health and vitality of the entire body.
To begin with, as many as 100 trillion microorganisms live inside the gut. Beyond breaking down the food we consume, these gut microbiota produce important neurotransmitters such as dopamine and GABA, including more than 90% of serotonin, known as the happiness hormone. These substances are delivered to the brain, directly affecting our mood, sleep, and cognitive function, as well as our stress response and energy levels. In other words, when the gut environment deteriorates, the production of these important hormones and neurotransmitters decreases, leading to chronic declines in energy, depressive moods, and the brain fog phenomenon.
In addition, the gut is the front line of immunity where about 70 to 80% of our body's immune cells are concentrated. A healthy gut maintains a sturdy intestinal barrier to block the invasion of harmful bacteria and plays an important role in regulating the immune system. However, when the balance between beneficial gut bacteria and harmful bacteria is disrupted by a Westernized diet, stress, antibiotics, and other factors, issues like leaky gut syndrome can occur. As the intestinal barrier loosens, toxins and microbial debris leak into the bloodstream, triggering a systemic inflammatory response, and this chronic low-grade inflammation constantly consumes our energy, ultimately becoming the main culprit leading to chronic fatigue.
In the end, just as the Donguibogam emphasized the importance of the large intestine, modern science is also revealing that gut health is a key factor that governs not only digestive issues but also our body's vitality, immunity, and mental health. Only when the gut is healthy can you regain true vitality and refill an exhausted body with energy.
