The gut course (multi-series)

Module 1 of the gut course is live. The gut course aims to teach members the basics of digestion and gut health in an easy to comprehend, digestible(no pun intended) mini-crash course

Module 1– phases of digestion: cephalic phase

First module is going to be a short one. Video time: 11min

Video link:

https://youtu.be/ky7EqgpOOG8

Notes

Olfaction plays an important role in modulating gastrointestinal motility and the secretion of digestive enzymes through the gut-brain axis, primarily via neural pathways involving the vagus nerve and central nervous system. When the olfactory receptors detect food related odors, signals are transmitted to the brain’s limbic system and hypothalamus, which coordinate anticipatory responses that prepare the digestive system for incoming nutrients. This sensory input stimulates vagal afferents, causing increased gastric motility and enhancing the rhythmic contractions of the stomach and intestines to facilitate efficient mixing and propulsion of food. olfactory stimulation triggers the release of hormones such as gastrin, cholecystokinin and secretin, which then stimulate the secretion of gastric acid, pancreatic enzymes, and bile to optimize the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. This preparatory activation not only accelerates digestion but also improves nutrient assimilation. a lack of olfactory cues (as seen in anosmia) diminished these responses, often causing sluggish motility and suboptimal enzyme secretion.

Key takeaways

Chew food thoroughly. The longer you chew, the more time food has to get broken down by oral enzymes. The better you chew, the less work your stomach acid has to do to breakdown your food

Smell your food and anticipate eating it. Prepare fresh meals at home whenever possible. Smelling the food you prepare for 15-20mim prior to eating will trigger motility and prime the body for digestion .