Is STESS hindering your ability to heal your gut?
The gut and brain are intricately linked through the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication network between the central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord) and the enteric nervous system (the nervous system within your gut). Your emotions, thoughts, and stress have a direct impact on your gut and digestive function via this pathway.
Chronic stress and the activation of the sympathetic nervous system—commonly known as the “fight or flight” response, diverts resources away from the digestive system. This is an essential survival mechanism, but it’s not designed to stay switched on for long periods. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, it has some of the following impacts on the gut:
Decreased production of digestive enzymes.
Slower gut motility (or, conversely, diarrhea for some individuals).
Increased inflammation in the gut lining.
Changes to the microbiome
Stress doesn’t just affect how well you digest food; it can also exacerbate conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and bloating.
The parasympathetic nervous system- commonly knownas the “rest and digest” response, is the counterpart to the sympathetic nervous system. When activated, the PNS supports digestion by increasing blood flow to the digestive organs, promotes the release of digestive enzymes, and encourages regular gut motility.
The connection between stress and gut health is something we’ve all likely experienced. Think about the last time you felt nervous or anxious—perhaps before a presentation at work or an important event. Did you notice butterflies in your stomach? This sensation occurs because your brain communicates stress signals to your gut which in turn affects gut motility and sensitivity.
Acute stress caused by presenting at work is normal and may have some short term impacts on the gut. However, chronic stress can result in more severe disruptions, like gut inflammation, intestinal permeability and changes in the gut microbiome.
Are you even Stressed?
Stress isn’t always obvious. While we may think of stress as tight deadlines, running late or major life changes, it often manifests in less obvious ways.
Constant scrolling: keeps your nervous system on high alert, especially when you’re exposed to negative or overstimulating content.
Multitasking: Eating meals on the run, while working or watching TV can hinder digestion, as the body isn’t in a relaxed state.
Poor sleep: Inadequate rest disrupts our natural cortisol rhythm. This can amplify stress responses and further impact gut health.
Holistic management of chronic gut symptoms needs to look at a variety of factors that could be impacting the gut, including stress. The gut plays a significant role in our overall health influences far more than digestion and nutrient absorption. The gut is involved in immune system regulation, mental health, metabolic health, hormone production, and even skin health. Supporting gut health is pivotal in holistic care as it directly impacts and influences so many parts of our health.
Struggling with ongoing gut symptoms, book in for a complementary call to discuss how i could help you finally get on top of your gut health.
Love,
Heidi x