Digestive stress problems: how it affects your body
by Baia Food in Feb 18, 2025
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Have you ever felt stomach discomfort before an important presentation? Or maybe you've noticed that, during times of stress, your digestion slows down or abdominal pains appear for no apparent reason. You're not alone. Stress, especially long-term, can profoundly affect the digestive system, causing uncomfortable symptoms and affecting your overall well-being.
In this article, we will explore How stress affects the digestive system, what are the symptoms of digestive stress and what you can do to improve your
How stress affects the digestive system
The digestive system and the brain are connected through the gut-brain axis, which means that our emotions can directly influence our digestion. When we are stressed, the body goes into alert mode, which can trigger several negative responses in the digestive system:
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Less blood flow to the intestineStress activates the sympathetic nervous system, reducing blood flow to the digestive system and slowing digestion.
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Alterations in the intestinal microbiota: High levels of stress can affect the balance of gut bacteria, causing inflammation and digestive discomfort.
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Increased acid productionIn situations of anxiety, the stomach may produce more acid, which can lead to heartburn, reflux, or gastritis.
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Irregular bowel movements: Stress can accelerate or slow down intestinal transit, causing diarrhea or constipation.
Digestive stress is a common response in people with hectic lives. Learning to manage it can
Symptoms of digestive stress
Digestive problems due to stress and anxiety can manifest in different ways. Some of the most common symptoms include:
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Abdominal pain or discomfort: Feeling of
bloating , cramps or heaviness after eating. -
Nausea or loss of appetiteIn situations of high stress, the body may reduce its desire to eat.
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Diarrhea or constipationIrregular bowel movements are a clear sign of digestive stress.
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Gases and
bloating An imbalance in the intestinal microbiota can cause gas buildup and a feeling of heaviness. -
Heartburn and reflux: Overproduction of gastric acid can cause discomfort in the upper abdomen.
If you identify with several of these symptoms and notice that they appear during times of anxiety, it's likely that your digestive system is reacting to stress.
How to relieve digestive problems caused by stress and anxiety?
The good news is that you can take steps to reduce symptoms and improve your digestion:
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Control stress: Techniques such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing can
Help you to maintain thecalm to reduce the effects of stress on the digestive system. -
Take care of your dietAvoid excessive coffee, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods. Choose foods rich in fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics to strengthen your gut microbiota.
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Exercise regularly: Physical activity
Help to regulate intestinal transit and improve mood. -
Adequate hydrationDrinking enough water is key to maintaining a healthy digestive system.
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Support your
Gut health with supplements: Products such asMicrobiotic Creamer Baïa Food they canHelp help you balance your microbiota and improve digestion.
Some frequently asked questions from our customers:
Can stress cause long-term digestive problems?
Yes. If not managed properly, chronic stress can lead to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or gastritis.
What foods can worsen digestive stress?
Ultra-processed foods, alcohol, excessive coffee, and fried foods can irritate the digestive system and worsen symptoms.
How do I know if my digestive problems are due to stress?
If you notice that your symptoms worsen during times of anxiety or disappear when you're relaxed, stress is likely the trigger.
Digestive problems caused by stress and anxiety are more common than we imagine, but fortunately, we can take steps to reduce their impact. Adopt healthy habits, manage stress, and take care of your gut microbiota. can make a big difference in your
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