5. Stress: The Silent Digestive Disruptor
Stress, in today’s fast-paced world, is almost inescapable. While its mental and emotional toll is well documented, its impact on digestion is equally significant. The gut and the brain share a profound connection, with one influencing the other in myriad ways.
When stress strikes, it sets off a chain reaction in the body. The so-called “fight or flight” response kicks in, redirecting resources away from digestion. The result? A sluggish digestive system that’s ill-equipped to handle the food we consume.
Furthermore, chronic stress can lead to imbalances in stomach acid production. This can either result in too much acid, leading to heartburn and indigestion, or too little, making digestion inefficient. It’s a delicate balance that stress can easily upset. (5)
