Have you ever felt that pain in the pit of your stomach when you’re overwhelmed at work, or the bellyache that comes after a tough decision? Stress and digestion go hand-in-hand, and gastrointestinal problems can arise during stressful and challenging times in our lives. Our brains and our guts are intricately linked, and during times of anxiety or added stress, the impact on our digestive system can impact our overall well-being. 

It’s not uncommon for strategies to treat functional gastrointestinal problems in conjunction with treatments to also treat psychological stress and mental health. Because the relationship between the brain and gut are so intertwined, the interactions between the two can have a snowball effect. When we’re stressed, it can lead to bloating, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, and several other uncomfortable disorders. 

Stress and Digestion – Gut Pain

A recent study observed that our guts and digestive system house more neurons than reside in our entire spinal cord. It’s no wonder that anxiety and mental stress impact how our tummies feel! The nerves that make up our digestive system are so intricate and important, some researchers even believe that the gut is akin to a second brain, as its impact is so imperative to our overall health and wellbeing. 

This network of neurons and nerve endings in the gut is called the enteric, or intrinsic nervous system, which regulates all digestive functions and processes from your esophagus to your rectum. It includes processes like the release of enzymes, food digestion processes, swallowing, and the processes by which our bodies separate nutrients in our foods from waste. 

When we’re undergoing periods of stress, anxiety, or trauma, the connection between our guts and our brains can mean cramping, bloating, delayed digestion, nausea, and bowel irritation. While stress may not directly cause these diseases or disorders, the underlying cause for inflammation comes from our compromised nervous systems.

Managing Stress – Being Proactive With Our Gut Health

We all know reducing stress is sometimes easier said than done. If living our lives stress-free was easy, the world would definitely be a better place! While the relationship between our guts and our mental health is symbiotic in nature, being proactive with both of these delicate systems can help reduce symptoms and improve our overall health. 

The link between stress and your gut health is one that shouldn’t be ignored. It can be a cyclical and ongoing issue; stress leads to symptoms of gut disorders and disease, and the discomfort experienced can lead to more stress.

If at all possible, try employing some of these stress-reducing and digestive system boosting tips to help combat the strain on your mental health on a day-to-day basis:

• Mental health support – There are a variety of mental health therapies to help manage anxiety and stress. Talk therapy, psychotherapy, and behavioral therapies can help us process the events taking place in our lives.
• Nutritional therapies – Sometimes we all need a little nutritional advice. Whether we need assistance with supplements or need help focusing on nutrient-rich foods that can support our individual needs, speaking to a nutritionist can help pinpoint some foods that may be harming, and help us add supportive foods into our diet. The Integrated Wellness Clinic offers treatment plans that include the support of a nutritionist.
• Meditation or Yoga – Sometimes, taking a personal break and recentering can help us better cognitively process stress and anxiety. Yoga, massage, and meditation are healthy ways to relax.
• Stay active – By staying active, you’ll be helping keep all of your body’s systems healthier and better able to process nutrients and regulate at a better and more efficient capacity. It improves circulation, nervous system response, and can boost your metabolism.
• Eat stress-reducing foods – There is a link between stress and the body’s release of cortisol, and eating disorders. Natural mood-boosting foods are out there, and they’re natural and nutrient-rich. Foods like almonds, salmon (because of their omega-3 content), and citrus fruits are all great, natural sources of mood enhancement.

By being proactive with your gut health and overall wellness, you can hopefully prevent any long-term disorders or pain that may come with too much stress or anxiety. Stress and digestion are engaged in an uncomfortable and sometimes cascading dance. If you’re considering an integrated wellness approach to your stress or gastrointestinal issues, or you’re just ready to begin a proactive approach to your health, give us a call at  (610) 265-0500. You can also book an appointment online by clicking here.