Does Stress affect our Digestive System?

Stress may cause a range of gastrointestinal problems including the cramping, bloating, inflammation, and also a loss of appetite. The gut has millions of neurons which can function fairly and independently and are in the constant communication with the brain—explaining the ability to feel “butterflies” in our stomach. Stress can affect our brain-gut communication, and may trigger pain, bloating, and the other gut discomfort symptoms to be felt more easily. The gut is also inhabited by the millions of bacteria which can even influence its health and the brain’s health, which can also impact the ability to think and also affects our emotions.

Stress is associated with the changes in gut bacteria which in turn can influence our mood. Thus, the gut’s nerves and the bacteria strongly influences our brain and vice versa. Early life stress can change the development of our nervous system as well as how the body reacts to the stress, anxiety and depression. These changes can increase the risk for later gut diseases or disfunctioning.

GI symptoms may be associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and phobias. Common Gastrointestinal symptoms that have been associated with the anxiety disorders include Constipation, Diarrhea, Indigestion, Increased hunger, Loss of appetite, Stomach cramps, Nausea.

The specific signs and symptoms of stress and anxiety differ from person to person, but the potential to harm our health, emotional well-being, and the relationships with others will be real. Stress affects our mind, body, and behavior in many ways apart from the digestive tract, including the weight fluctuations, head and muscle aches, mood changes, and altered mental function.