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The Mechanism of Stress on the Stomach

Published in Gut Health 2 mins read

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:

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)