The wisdom of our ancestors is also recognized for its value by modern science. The headache caused by a blocked gut described in the Donguibogam can be explained today by the concept of the gut-brain axis. As one of the most active research topics in modern neurology, endocrinology, and immunology, this gut-brain axis provides scientific evidence showing how closely and ceaselessly our gut and brain communicate.
As you may know, countless microorganisms live in our gut. A state where this gut microbiota loses balance and harmful bacteria proliferate is called dysbiosis. When dysbiosis occurs, the intestinal mucosa is easily damaged and gaps develop, much like holes tearing in a fine net. This is known as leaky gut syndrome.
Through these widened gaps in the intestinal mucosa, undigested food particles and toxins produced by harmful bacteria, such as lipopolysaccharide from Gram-negative bacteria, penetrate into the bloodstream. These toxins become the primary culprits triggering inflammatory responses throughout the body. When these inflammatory substances cross the blood-brain barrier into the brain, micro-inflammation develops within brain tissue, which is called neuroinflammation. A flood of research shows that this very neuroinflammation is deeply linked to chronic headache, especially migraine and tension headache, as well as impaired concentration, brain fog, and dizziness.
Moreover, the gut is a major manufacturing factory for neurotransmitters in our body. Over 90% of serotonin, known as the happiness hormone, is produced in the gut, and other vital neurotransmitters like dopamine are also synthesized with the help of gut microbiota. Dysbiosis affects the production and balance of these neurotransmitters, which can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression, as well as brain hypofunction, worsening headaches and dizziness even further.
In addition, the gut and the brain communicate directly via a highway called the vagus nerve. If gut health is poor, negative signals are continuously sent to the brain through this vagus nerve, adversely affecting brain function. Ultimately, gut health extends beyond simple digestion; it is a critical matter directly tied to the health of our brain. Bringing comfort to the gut is the first step toward a clear head and a light body.
