SBS Show 'Three Perspectives' Explores Gut Fungus Impact on Brain Health

SBS's educational health variety show 'Three Perspectives' delves into the impact of 'gut fungus' on our immune system from historical, scientific, and medical viewpoints.

Airing on the morning of the 22nd at 8:35 AM, 'Three Perspectives' investigates how tiny microbes in our gut can influence brain health, and how a single microbe can alter our memory and thought processes.

Docent Lee Chang-yong begins with the story of Friedrich Nietzsche, a 19th-century philosopher known for his profound thoughts. Nietzsche reportedly suffered from hemorrhoids, stomach cramps, and abdominal pain, leading to over 20 hospitalizations. Lee explains, "Nietzsche began to view digestive issues and gut problems as a philosophical stance."

Professor Kwak Jae-sik of Environmental Safety Engineering brings humor to the set with a fun mission, likening the gut-brain connection to a communication line, suggesting constant interaction between the two organs. He warns that "the gut environment can harm the brain," comparing the gut to a "massive biochemical factory."

Pharmacist Yang Gwa-ja highlights the close relationship between the gut and fungus, warning that ignorance of this link could mean missing the chance to prevent dementia. She asks if anyone has experienced headaches in long-abandoned or underground spaces. Kim Seok-hoon, 53, recalls filming in a cave, saying, "I remember having headaches and feeling unwell throughout the shoot," surprising everyone.

Docent Lee Chang-yong also shares his experience of living in a mold-infested house in Paris, where he felt suffocated and had headaches, which improved when he went outside. Internal medicine specialist Lee Dong-hyung emphasizes the gut-brain connection, explaining, "Some studies suggest that fungal components from the gut can travel to the brain, settling in the folds and potentially damaging it," heightening the tension.

SBS 'Three Perspectives' episode 35 airs on the 22nd at 8:35 AM.

Reporter Kim Ji-won, TenAsia one@tenasia.co.kr