Did You Know?

Your overall wellbeing depends on a healthy, balanced gastrointestinal system. Many people are unaware of the role that the GI tract plays in their everyday lives. It is so important, in fact, that it is often referred to as our second brain!10 Browse the facts below and discover just how important your gut is and why it is critical we increase awareness of rare GI disorders.
  • About 70% of your immune system resides in your gut, helping to protect you from harmful pathogens.10

  • The gut produces about 95% of your body’s serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and digestion.10

  • An unhealthy gut can contribute to brain fog, anxiety, and even depression due to the gut-brain connection.11

  • The GI tract plays a major role in vitamin production — gut bacteria help create vitamins B and K, essential for energy and blood clotting.12

  • Disruption in gut bacteria has been linked to conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and autoimmune disorders.13
  • There are more than 200 rare GI conditions, yet most have no FDA-approved treatment due to limited research funding.14

  • On average, it takes 6 to 8 years for a patient with a rare GI condition to receive a correct diagnosis.15

  • Conditions like Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) are often mistaken for common acid reflux, delaying treatment for years.16

  • Despite the severe impact of rare GI conditions, research on them receives significantly less funding than more common diseases.17

  • Some rare GI disorders, like intestinal pseudo-obstruction, can mimic severe bowel blockages without any physical obstruction — making diagnosis extremely challenging.18
  • Your gut contains over 100 trillion bacteria — more than the number of human cells in your entire body.19

  • The surface area of your GI tract is roughly the size of a tennis court — maximizing absorption of nutrients.20

  • The enteric nervous system in your gut is sometimes called your “second brain” because it can function independently of the central nervous system.10

  • Short-chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria can reduce inflammation and improve heart health.21

  • Gut health is so powerful that a disrupted microbiome has been linked to conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.22

Further Your Knowledge

Patient Empowerment Guide

A resource designed to help you explain your condition clearly and confidently to your healthcare provider. Rare conditions can be difficult to diagnose and manage, but being prepared can improve your care experience.

InsightLab

A collection of readings and quizzes about various aspects of rare GI disorders including patient awareness, funding gaps, and how to advocate for research.

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