How does stress impact your gut?
Stress is an inevitable part of life. Whether it's work-related stress, family stress, or financial stress, it can have a profound impact on our overall well-being. But did you know that stress can also have an impact on your gut health? In this blog post, we'll explore how stress impacts your gut and what you can do to manage it.
A second brain
The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to the number of neurons it contains. This is known as the enteric nervous system, which is responsible for regulating digestion and controlling the functions of the gastrointestinal tract. When we experience stress, it can have a direct impact on the enteric nervous system, leading to digestive issues and other health problems.
Stress can cause the body to release cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with digestion by decreasing blood flow to the gut and reducing the production of digestive enzymes. This can lead to a number of digestive issues, including constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Additionally, stress can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut, which can lead to an increase in harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria.
The impact of stress on the gut can also lead to inflammation, which can exacerbate existing gut conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In fact, research has shown that stress can trigger IBS symptoms in up to 80% of patients.
Manage stress & support your gut health
1. Practice stress management techniques. This can include meditation, deep breathing, yoga, a walk in nature, or simply spending time with your loved ones.
2. Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and promote healthy digestion. Almost any form of movement can increase your fitness level, while decreasing stress. Walking, dancing, cycling and even gardening are wonderful ways to get moving.
3. Eat a healthy diet. Eating a diet that is high in fiber and low in processed foods can help support a healthy gut. One of the simplest ways of improving your health is by preparing more home-cooked meals. That allows you to have more control over the ingredients and eat fresh, wholesome meals.
4. Consider probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support a healthy gut microbiome. The gut is a complex ecosystem of bacteria and yeast and the probiotics are the fertilizers that replenish the gut bacteria. Think about eating your probiotics rather than taking them in pill form. Natural yogurt, naturally fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut or kimchi are the oldest and most reliable forms of probiotics.
5. Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is important for overall health and can help reduce stress. Following a regular sleep routine is a perfect way to take some time at the end of the day to slow down and get the body ready to recover. A good night sleep recharges the body and brain and a good sleep regiment will help build resilience to stressful circumstances.
Stress can have a profound impact on your gut health. By practicing stress management techniques, eating a healthy diet, and taking care of your overall health, you can support a healthy gut and minimize the impact of stress on your body. Remember, taking care of your gut health is essential for overall well-being.