The Gut-Brain Axis: Why Your Microbiome Might Be Driving More Than Just Digestion
fermented foods
You’ve likely heard the phrase "gut feeling"—but what if we told you your gut was literally talking to your brain? That’s not just poetic, it’s biological. Welcome to the world of the gut-brain axis—an intricate, two-way communication system between your gut microbiome and central nervous system.
This connection influences far more than digestion. It has a proven role in regulating your mood, cognition, immune function, energy levels, hormonal signalling, and even reproductive health. During times of immense physiological change—like pre-conception, pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—this axis becomes even more central.
What Is the Gut-Brain Axis?
The gut-brain axis refers to the complex, bidirectional communication network that links your enteric nervous system (the nervous system within your gut) with your central nervous system. This connection is made possible by:
The vagus nerve—the longest cranial nerve, responsible for transmitting signals between the gut and brain
Neurotransmitters—like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, many of which are produced or regulated by gut bacteria
Immune signalling molecules, such as cytokines
Microbial metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which play a role in inflammation and blood-brain barrier integrity
An estimated 39 trillion bacteria live in your gut. These microbes break down food, synthesise vitamins, and help regulate your immune system—but they also influence how you think and feel. In fact, up to 90% of serotonin—a neurotransmitter crucial for emotional stability—is produced in the gut.
When the microbiome is out of balance (a condition known as dysbiosis), or the gut lining becomes permeable (aka “leaky gut”), inflammatory signals can reach the brain. This can contribute to:
Anxiety and depression
Poor sleep quality
Brain fog and fatigue
Hormonal dysregulation
Increased inflammation and pain
Why This Matters During Pre-Conception, Pregnancy & Postpartum
Hormonal and immune shifts during these life stages place additional stress on the gut-brain axis. Research now shows:
Pregnancy alters the microbiome: Studies show that the gut microbiome shifts significantly across trimesters, impacting maternal metabolism, mood, and inflammation.
The gut affects fetal development: A healthy maternal microbiome helps regulate inflammation, support nutrient absorption, and transfer microbes to the baby via vaginal birth and breast milk.
Postpartum mental health is linked to gut health: Imbalances in gut flora have been correlated with postpartum anxiety and depressive symptoms.
The preconception period is key: A resilient, diverse gut microbiome can support hormonal balance, immune regulation, and ovulation quality.
Gut health influences:
Nutrient bioavailability (iron, B12, folate)
Hormonal balance (cortisol, estrogen, progesterone)
Mental health and resilience
Immune modulation (especially for autoimmune risk and inflammation)
Supporting your gut during this time isn’t just helpful—it’s foundational to your entire physical and emotional wellbeing.
How to Support the Gut-Brain Axis
1. Know Your Microbiome
Not all gut issues show up as bloating. Many present as fatigue, anxiety, skin issues or disrupted cycles. That’s why we created the Gut Map Insight Package—a clinical-grade, comprehensive stool test + optional consultation.
✓ Clinical insight into microbiome balance, gut inflammation, pathogens, enzyme activity and more
✓ Suitable for fertility prep, pregnancy, postpartum or anyone seeking to understand their health from the inside out
✓ Optional 1:1 practitioner analysis for root-cause clarity and action steps
→ [Explore the Gut Map Insight Package here]
2. Feed Your Microbes
Eat a wide variety of plants—aim for 30+ types a week. Focus on:
Prebiotics: oats, bananas, garlic, leeks, asparagus, apples
Fermented foods: yoghurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, miso
Polyphenols: berries, green tea, olive oil, dark chocolate
3. Add Probiotics Wisely
We’ve partnered with Symprove—a live, water-based probiotic with strong data behind its ability to reach the gut alive. It’s free from dairy, gluten, and artificial additives.
→ Use code BUBBA50 at checkout for 50% off your first 3-month subscription: symprove.com
Final Thoughts
The gut-brain axis isn’t a trend—it’s a fundamental part of how your body functions. Whether you're preparing to conceive, navigating the emotional landscape of pregnancy, or healing in postpartum—understanding and supporting your gut is key to long-term wellbeing.
When your gut and brain are in sync, you feel more energised, emotionally stable, hormonally balanced, and resilient.
Let’s stop guessing and start listening to what your body is telling you.
→ Book your Gut Map Insight Package or learn more via the link below
