5 min
What is the impact of stress on the stomach and how to remedy it?
A lump in your stomach: have you ever felt it? We all know this pictorial expression which evokes the knot in the stomach in a situation of stress or fear. A rather unpleasant physical sensation that we could do without!
It can result in digestive disorders, digestive or muscular discomfort, or discomfort in the stomach. No doubt: stress does indeed impact our stomach!
Let's dive into the gastric world together to better understand how the stomach works in the face of stress . Solutions exist to relieve abdominal discomfort due to stress, it would be a shame to deprive yourself of them! 🌟
I. The impact of stress on the stomach 😣
First of all, some explanations on the link between stress and the impact of emotions on the stomach.
How does stress affect our stomach?
A recent INSERM study establishes a close link between stress and digestive disorders. The stress hormone, called cortisol , “acts directly on the plasticity of the intestinal nervous system.” Our digestive system, considered our second brain, contracts under stress. Digestive disturbances linked to emotions can result in a knotted stomach or even acid reflux. 😟
The mechanisms of the stomach's reaction to stress
When stress takes over the stomach, tensions and disturbances affect the entire body. Gastric juices flow back up into the esophagus and discomfort from gastric reflux may set in. Intestinal spasms felt like a knife in the stomach are the body's reaction to stress. This discomfort in the pit of the stomach reflects the violent reaction of the nervous system.
The consequences of stress on the stomach
In cases of strong anxiety, the activity of the digestive system slows down. It assimilates food less well. If you are constantly stressed, you have surely noticed that your digestion is working poorly or even slowing down. Knots in the stomach and signs of digestive discomfort: does this mean something to you?
This may include discomfort, intestinal spasms, or heartburn . The stomach is damaged by stress and the latter also acts on the intestines and disrupts transit.
The digestive system is a collateral victim of your stress! It is time to react ! 🙅♂️
II. Stress management for the stomach
Suffering from gastric discomfort is not inevitable! Here are some solutions to combat stress and not harm your stomach .
Stress management tips to preserve your stomach and your well-being 😌
Succeeding in letting go: do you dream of it? The benefits are numerous!
You improve your daily well-being and protect your stomach from stress . This requires an impeccable lifestyle:
get enough sleep 😴;
eat healthy and balanced by favoring fresh and seasonal products 🍏;
limit the consumption of alcohol and stimulants ☕;
reduce tobacco 🚭;
practice physical activity at your own pace, if possible several times a week 🏋️.
This is the basis for living less stressed! If you feel like it, you can go further by adopting relaxation and meditation techniques. This is an excellent solution to protect your stomach from stress.
We tell you about it below:
The role of relaxation and meditation 🧘
Anti-stress methods are on the rise! Relaxation, mindfulness meditation, sophrology, sound relaxation with Tibetan bowls: the choice is yours!
You can practice them alone or in a group, at home or with professionals specialized in managing emotions and stress. The soothing effect of these methods is no longer in doubt. By working on breathing and controlling your emotions, the stress level is greatly reduced and the consequences on the stomach too.
There are even applications to integrate relaxation exercises into your daily life. In short, you no longer have any excuses 😉!
The importance of emotional balance for a healthy stomach
Well, you understand: the relationships between emotions and abdominal comfort are close.
By learning to manage your stress and emotions, you have everything to gain: no more digestive discomfort, stomach discomfort and acid reflux caused by stress!
Feelings of abdominal discomfort and disturbing gastric sensations disappear as if by magic. At the same time, you find a certain serenity and a more constant mood thanks to a new emotional balance. Something to please your loved ones too! In certain cases, and if the stress increases, do not hesitate to consult a psychologist. 🩺
III. Protecting the intestines against the effects of stress 🛡️
An impeccable lifestyle is the basis! Overview of a suitable diet and probiotics to counter the effects of stress on the stomach.
Adapt your diet to reduce the impact of stress on the intestines
Scientists consider that the Mediterranean diet has many benefits for the body. It relieves stress by reducing cortisol levels in the body. A piece of advice: favor unprocessed foods and you thus reduce the risk of impact on the intestines. On the menu to combat stress on the stomach:
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Foods rich in magnesium : whole grains, oilseeds and chocolate 🍫;
Foods that contain vitamin B12 : offal or eggs 🥚;
Foods rich in Omega 3: fatty fish and nuts 🐟;
Proteins 🍗.
You can also introduce foods rich in probiotics into your diet such as Greek yogurt or fermented drinks 🥛, for example.
The role of probiotics in maintaining intestinal balance
Probiotics contribute to maintaining the balance of intestinal flora . These are bacteria that improve the functioning of the intestinal microbiota or restore an unbalanced microbiota.
To avoid the inconvenience caused by a gastrointestinal imbalance, our Probio Formula is ideal. It is to be taken as a one-month treatment. This unique complex composed of 6 microbiotic strains will help you keep your intestinal flora in tip-top shape!
IV. Relief from digestive discomfort linked to stress
Are you tired of suffering from stress-related digestive discomfort? Here are some tips to relieve them and eliminate them from your daily life.
Strategies to alleviate digestive discomfort caused by stress
To limit stomach discomfort linked to stress, consider changing your habits and:
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avoid compulsive snacking 🍟;
favor a diet rich in fiber 🥦;
take the time to eat and chew well 🍽️;
concentrate on your breathing in case of increased stress 🌬️
practice yoga or meditation 🧘♂️;
perform belly self-massages 🙆♂️.
All these good habits will help you limit abdominal discomfort due to stress.
Soothing foods and drinks for gastrointestinal comfort
In order to adapt your diet and avoid stomach discomfort caused by stress, favor the consumption of anti-stress foods :
lean meats 🥩;
fish, shellfish and seafood 🦐;
starchy foods 🍚;
cooked vegetables 🥕;
fruits, avoiding citrus fruits and acidic fruits 🍊;
cooked cheeses and yogurts 🧀.
Instead, think about light cooking without fat, such as papillotes or grilling. As for drinks, goodbye to sodas and all carbonated drinks to replace with plain water! Your stomach will thank you!
Tips for better managing your daily stress
To put an end to stress-related digestive disorders once and for all , it's time to take action! Here are some tips to better manage daily stress and find a balanced life. ⚖️
Do you feel overwhelmed by your professional and personal constraints? When the mental load becomes too overwhelming, the risk of collapsing becomes threatening. STOP! By implementing a few daily tips, the pressure level drops a notch and you gradually learn to let go. To better understand day-to-day stress:
Delegate every task you can! 📋
Include sport and relaxation in your weekly diary. 🗓️
Take the time to meet your friends and loved ones and make the most of these moments. 👭
Give yourself breaks and take care of your sleep. 😴
Review your list of priorities and learn to manage your time. 🕒
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Find the right balance between your professional and personal life. 🤹♀️
To conclude
In conclusion, it is essential to consider the impact of stress on the stomach and look for ways to reduce these aches and pains. Listening to your body, adopting relaxation techniques, and understanding the connection between stress and digestive issues are crucial steps toward better gastrointestinal health.
Do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you suffer from chronic stress-related stomach aches, as appropriate care can greatly improve your quality of life. Take care of yourself and your stomach, because a life without stress-related pain is possible!
You now have all the keys in hand to no longer suffer gastric discomfort linked to stress and soothe your stomach! To take care of your second brain and relieve stress from your stomach, put these few tips into practice.
➡️ And if your microbiota needs a boost to regain its balance, consider a course of probiotics for your overall well-being!
Lucas PINOS
Co-founder of NOVOMA
Passionate and expert in micro-nutrition, Lucas founded Novoma in 2012. It is with conviction that he develops food supplements with effective, carefully chosen and 100% clean active ingredients, to best meet the body's needs.
