While the dialogue between the mind and the gut has been recognized for centuries, until now medicine has not fully realized just how deep the connection really is. In The Mind-Gut Connection, Dr. Emeran Mayer offers a cutting-edge view into this developing science, showing us the full impact and complexity of how the brain, gut, and microbiome—the community of microorganisms that live inside the digestive tract—communicate with one another. As Dr. Mayer explains, the connection between the mind and the gut is bidirectional: the gut talks to the brain and the brain talks to the gut. When this communication channel is out of whack, major health problems arise in both the mind and the body, including food sensitivities and allergies, digestive disorders, obesity, depression, anxiety, and fatigue.

The Mind-Gut Connection teaches us how, with a few simple changes to our diet and lifestyle, we can develop a happier mind-set, enhanced immunity, a decreased risk of developing neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and even lose weight. With a simple, practical regimen drawn from the latest research, Dr. Mayer shows us that paying attention to the mind-gut balance is the key to unlocking vibrant health.