The functioning of your gut does not depend solely on proper nutrition. Good mental balance is also important. Stress can throw quite a spanner in the works in this regard.
Therefore, it is good to be aware of the effects of diet and stress on your gut and the interaction between them. But other “underwater factors” may also come into play.
Stress and digestion
We are learning more and more about the relationship between stress and digestion. The gut and brain are in direct communication with each other and are constantly giving each other signals. We call this the “gut-brain connection.
Acute or chronic stress causes the intestines to become upset. You may notice that you get abdominal pain during times of stress. This is because digestion is shut down for a while when you feel stressed. A lot is happening in your belly at that moment.
Food is digested slowly. Under the influence of stress, you lose many healthy gut bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria can thus increase. You may experience nausea, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation. And so on and so forth.
‘Underwater stress’ due to intestinal problems
But beware! Improper nutrition, parasites, harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi can cause inflammation in the intestines.
Inflammation, in turn, also causes “underwater stress” through the chronic production of cortisol and adrenaline, our stress hormones.
Many people often experience feelings of stress, but do not know where it comes from. So good chance it’s your gut!
You don’t necessarily have abdominal pain. Constipation and diarrhea can be a sign that something is wrong. The sooner you get there, the sooner it can be fixed and the less residual damage left.
Restoring balance
Stress cannot always be avoided, but try to limit it as much as possible. Chronic stress can lead to chronic diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) or Crohn’s disease. Then the intestinal symptoms do not go away on their own.
To restore balance, it can help to take good care of your gut flora. You can do this by eating a good and varied diet, but also by adopting a healthier lifestyle. Regular exercise, adequate drinking and eating slowly can all contribute to healthy gut health.
Provide a moment of relaxation every day, even if it is only half an hour. Turning off your phone and taking a walk or pursuing a hobby can already reduce stress.
But unfortunately, this is often not enough when the aforementioned factors of “underwater stress” also come into play with you.
Healthy intestines
When stressed, you are more likely to reach for an unhealthy snack. Still, it is wise not to do so, to avoid worsening intestinal problems. Leave out the quick sugars and scoop your plate full of fiber and leafy vegetables.
High-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables are conducive to gut bacteria. Vegetables such as spinach, kale and leeks contain chlorophyll, which also has a positive effect on hormone balance. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut also offer intestinal health benefits.
Avoid anything related to milk, i.e. all dairy. Gluten-containing grains such as wheat, rye, barley, spelt, gluten and casein (a protein in milk) also cause inflammation of the intestinal wall and thus contribute to “underwater stress,” especially in people who are sensitive(er) to this.
Often, however, you are not aware of this. But good news: “You can easily measure this through blood tests,” says Frank Jonkers, a specialist at BodySwitch Heemskerk.
Anti-inflammatory diet
Following an anti-inflammatory diet will help you regain control of your intestinal function. Inflammation is reduced and your well-being is boosted.
An anti-inflammatory diet is low in carbohydrates and high in fish, vegetables and fruits. Gut flora benefit from foods rich in vitamins E and C and antioxidants. Blueberries, strawberries, broccoli, citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic and green tea are all good options. These foods have an anti-inflammatory function.
All this though with a but… Because even for healthy foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, garlic, herbs and so on, you can have intolerances that can still upset your gut. But as mentioned earlier, this can be measured just fine through blood tests.
To measure is to know
Have you already taken steps on your own by reducing stress, adjusting your diet but you still continue to have bowel issues that you can’t get a handle on? If so, please contact us.
Through specialized lab tests on stools, we can create a blueprint of the entire functioning of the intestines and digestive system, bringing your problems to the surface.
‘Measuring is knowing,’ is the vision of Frank Jonkers and BodySwitch.
Want to know more? Get in touch!
Are you not getting by yourself (anymore) and want to finally resolve your complaints? BodySwitch’s specialists are also happy to help you resolve your symptoms.
Our team of specialists are experts in the field of (intestinal) health and natural treatment of chronic syndromes and intestinal complaints.
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On behalf of all our specialists, a very good health to you!
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