FRIDAY 18 April

GOOD FRIDAY = NO U3A LECTURE!

TUESDAY 22 April at 10:00 in the Catholic Church Hall

The gut–brain connection
by Prof Nola Dippenaar

THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS

In this talk Prof Nola Dippenaar will explain the vital role played by the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) in health – in effect the “petrol tank” of the body. The 9-meter-long GIT plays a vital role in general health. An integral part of its functioning is the presence of friendly bacteria, also known as the microbiome. These gut bacteria assist the body to digest certain foods that the stomach and small intestine are unable to digest – a key to proper digestive functioning.  These beneficial bacteria are also vital for maintaining the integrity of the gut epithelial barrier (gut wall), and for maintaining the intestinal immune system, offering protection from harmful bacteria and viruses.  The gut microbiome is involved with the regulation of the Immune System and its inflammatory response. There are bidirectional interactions between the gut, the nervous system, and the brain – called the gut-brain axis.  Alterations in these interactions can play a role in several brain or gut disorders.