The Gut–Brain–Immune Connection: Why Gut Health Matters More Than You Think

This past weekend, I had the privilege of presenting at the Scattering Seeds Collective Summit on the gut–brain–immune connection. It was encouraging to see families eager to understand how deeply interconnected our systems truly are.

Nearly 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. This means the digestive tract is not simply a food-processing tube — it is an immune organ, a neurological signaling center, and home to a vast microbial ecosystem.

The Microbiome: A Living Ecosystem

Our gut contains trillions of microorganisms. When beneficial microbes dominate, they help regulate inflammation and immune balance. When harmful microbes gain the upper hand, inflammation increases.

Chronic gut imbalance has been associated with:

• Autoimmune disorders

• Anxiety and depression

• Fatigue and brain fog

• Metabolic dysfunction

• Chronic inflammatory conditions

What People Mean by “Leaky Gut”

Think of the gut lining as a barrier. When it becomes compromised, substances that normally remain inside the digestive tract can trigger immune activation. Some researchers describe this as increased intestinal permeability.

When inflammation becomes systemic, it may also influence the blood-brain barrier — sometimes referred to as “leaky brain.” The immune system serves as the bridge between gut dysfunction and neurologic symptoms.

Common Symptoms

• Abdominal discomfort

• Reflux, diarrhea, or constipation

• Brain fog

• Fatigue

• Mood changes

• Headaches

The Path to Healing

The key is identifying and addressing root causes.

Healing often includes:

• A whole-food, fiber-rich diet

• Fermented foods to support microbiome diversity

• Regular physical activity

• Adequate sleep (7+ hours)

• Stress reduction

• Limiting alcohol, NSAIDs, and unnecessary antibiotics

Gut health is foundational. When we restore balance in the gut, we often see improvements far beyond digestion.