If you’ve ever had a pit in your stomach during periods of stress, then you have experienced exactly what it’s like to have stress affect your gut. Stress can do a number on overall health and can be especially harmful to our gut.
Let’s take a look at why chronic stress may be a bigger cause of gut issues than you may think.
Why Stress Impacts Gut Health
#1 Stress May Negatively Impact Gut Bacteria: Studies have found that stress may impact gut bacteria balance, increasing the number of potentially harmful gut bacteria, while also changing the overall composition of the gut bacteria. The same study hopes to conduct further research on whether or not this change in gut bacteria is a reason that conditions like inflammatory bowel disease happen to be worse during periods of stress. (1)
#2 Digestion May Slow: If stress triggers a fight-or-flight response, digestion will likely slow or even stop, in order to help the body cope with whatever the perceived threat is. (2) This is why many people experience digestive distress during periods of stress, and this can become a long-term issue for someone who may be dealing with chronic stress. Being in a chronic state of fight-or-flight can really do a number on gut health. Harvard Health states that relaxation therapy, such as visualization and muscle relaxation, may be beneficial for reducing gastrointestinal distress linked to stress.
#3 Stress May Make Already Present Stomach Issues Worse: For those who suffer from digestive health issues like inflammatory bowel disease, IBS, or reflux, symptoms may be worse during periods of stress. Finding ways to reduce stress is going to be key to getting symptoms back in check.
3 Hacks to Reduce Stress
Reducing stress is important for everyone, and it’s even more important for those who suffer from chronic digestive issues during periods of stress. Here are three ways to reduce your overall stress.
Support Your Adrenals: Supporting your adrenals glands and balancing cortisol levels is key to supporting your body’s stress response. Dr. Vim’s Yinergy and Vigor adaptogenic herb blends contain therapeutic dosages to help you feel a difference.
Move Your Body: Exercise plays such an important part of reducing stress, plus, it’s great for overall health. Even something as simple as a brisk walk may help you feel a little less stressed out and a little more centered.
Deep Breathing: When we’re stressed, we often hold our breath, which only makes us more tense. Try to make a habit of stopping and breathing when you feel stressed. Some deep breathing makes a huge difference in how you hold the stress in your body and may help you feel more relaxed.
Reduce Stress, Support Your Gut
Reducing stress is such a key part of supporting better gut health. So, if you suffer from a regular upset stomach, or any other chronic digestive health issue, consider making stress reduction a priority. It may just be the thing you need to help support a happier stomach.