In this introductory chapter, Dr. Mayer discusses how the traditional biological model approached gastro intestinal problems/complaints with patients.
What was this model’s approach and what were the pitfalls? Give at least one example of a disorder or illness that wasn’t properly treated by the biomedical approach.
What were some of the reasons given in this chapter for updating our prevailing model of the human body? What benefits do a biopychosocial view of the connection between thoughts, emotions and the digestive system offer?
Why is the gut called our “second brain”?
What is one question you have about the reading? Or, what is something you found particularly interesting or surprising about the reading?