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Hormones.

The enteric nervous system, or second brain.

KEY STATS ABOUT THE SECOND BRAIN

The second brain is wondrously complex. For example, the gut (the intestines) has as many neurons as the spinal cord. The second brain is also affected by your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations. If you’ve ever had “butterflies” before a big competition or stress-induced heartburn or a sudden urge to use the bathroom before a big race or climb . . . this is how the enteric nervous system communicates. Here are some other important facts:

•The surface area of the intestines is approximately 100 times greater than the surface area of the skin.

•The gut has the largest population of microorganisms of all body surfaces.

•The gut contains two-thirds of our immune system cells and also has thousands of hormone-producing cells, making it the largest endocrine organ.

•The gut uses and locally secretes neurotransmitters to help with digestion, such as GABA, norepinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. It uses most of the body’s serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin.