The Connection Between Anxiety and Your Gut

Your nervous and digestive systems are separate parts of your body, but their 
relationship is reflected by the way anxiety and emotional stress can cause such 
problems as indigestion, constipation, diarrhea and nausea. There are several reasons 
for these and other digestive reactions to a person's mental state.  
 
The Sensitivity of Your Digestive Tract 
 
The brain that generates mental anguish is the same organ that communicates with and 
controls the rest of the body. A brain "overload" can thus deprive other elements of the 
body, including the digestive tract, with the oversight and regulation needed to ensure 
proper functioning. Additionally, emotional stress can result in the excessive production 
of stomach acids, causing considerable discomfort.  
 
Stress and Adrenaline Production 
 
In times of stress, the body produces excessive amounts of the hormone adrenaline. 
This hormone imbalance will affect the processing of nutrients, which will in turn affect 
the functioning of your digestive system.  
 
Effects on the Immune System 
 
The immune system is important in protecting your body from disease and other threats. 
However, the system can be influenced by emotional stress. In terms of digestion, an 
imbalance in the different types of bacteria that protect the intestine and are important to 
the metabolic process can affect the way the rest of the system functions.  
 
Anxiety and Sleep Problems 
 
Insufficient sleep is often associated with emotional problems. A body that is not 
properly rested will have lower energy levels, which will affect the functioning of its 
many elements, including the digestive tract.  
 
The Reverse Effect 
 
In addition to being affected by anxiety, the digestive system can produce its own 
symptoms that can cause other problems. Chest pains generated by emotional stress 
can create the additional fear of a more serious health condition.  
 
Dealing With Digestive Problems 
 
An ongoing digestive problem can be an indication of a serious internal problem and 
deserves medical attention. In the event that the condition is related to anxiety, a doctor 
may be able to offer solutions to both the precipitating and the consequential factors. 
Good digestion often comes down to having a healthy diet, exercising and making sure 
you get plenty of sleep.

If you are dealing with anxiety, it doesn’t hurt to talk to your doctor and ask if your gut 
health might be the cause. Some simple tests can be done along with basic lifestyle 
changes that will make a drastic difference in your quality of life.


