How Does Stress Affect the Stomach?
Stress significantly impacts the stomach and the entire digestive system. It doesn't directly cause conditions like ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease, but it can worsen existing problems and trigger various unpleasant symptoms.
When stressed, the body activates the "fight-or-flight" response. This involves the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which prioritize immediate survival needs over digestion. This response leads to several changes affecting the stomach:
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Delayed Stomach Emptying: Stress slows down the stomach's ability to empty its contents. This can lead to a feeling of fullness, bloating, indigestion, heartburn, and nausea. (Source: Henry Ford Health System Blog, July 26, 2021) Dr. Farooqui explains that this delayed emptying can trigger heartburn. (Source: Houston Methodist Blog, February 15, 2023)
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Increased Intestinal Motility: Paradoxically, while the stomach slows down, stress can increase activity in the large intestine. This can result in bowel urgency or diarrhea. (Source: Henry Ford Health System Blog, July 26, 2021)
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Other Symptoms: Stress can also contribute to bloating, loose stool, and general gastrointestinal discomfort. (Source: University of Chicago Medicine) The connection between stress and the gut is complex, bidirectional, meaning stress can trigger and worsen digestive problems. (Source: Harvard Health Publishing)
The Gut-Brain Axis
The gut and brain communicate constantly through the gut-brain axis. Stress alters this communication, affecting digestive processes. This complex interaction explains why stress can have such a profound effect on the stomach and intestines. (Source: Harvard Health, Source: NCBI Pubmed)
Managing Stress for Better Digestive Health
Managing stress is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Techniques like exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can help mitigate the negative impacts of stress on the stomach and gut. (Source: NHS, Source: Jefferson Health)