communication between emotional and cognitive centers of the brain to the GI tract and vice versa. Emotions have been shown to stimulate colon motor function and result in decreased colonic transit time, increased contractile activity, the induction of defecation, and symptoms of diarrhea. Epidemiology Functional gastrointestinal disorders are very common. Globally, irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia alone may affect 16–26% of the population. Research There is considerable research into the causes, diagnosis and treatments for FGIDs. Diet, microbiome, genetics, neuromuscular function and immunological response all interact. A role for mast cell activation has been proposed as one of the factors. See also Allergy Food intolerance Functional indigestion Histamine intolerance References External links Gastrointestinal tract disorders