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There is no doubt that the world, at large, is experiencing unprecedented levels of stress. According to the 2023 India Wellness Index, 77% of Indians suffer from at least one symptom of stress on a regular basis. The issue is obvious, and has been brought further to light following the death of Natasha Diddy, a food blogger and author who lost her stomach due to stress and made it her life’s mission to create awareness about the topic.
“Gastrointestinal problems account for 60-75% of stomach symptoms, including gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome, which are often caused by stress. Patients may undergo ultrasound, colonoscopy and other tests that show everything is normal, yet their condition does not improve, indicating an underlying problem,” says Dr Saroj Dubey, senior consultant gastroenterologist, Kailash Hospital. , says Noida.
But what is the connection between stress and gut health?
According to Dr. Vikrant Panwar DNB-General Medicine, several studies have explored the link between stress and gut health through the concept of the gut-brain axis, which is the physical and chemical connection that occurs between the gut and the brain. “Conditions classified as functional disorders such as functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea and constipation show a direct correlation with stress levels,” he says.
What are some early signs?
Common symptoms include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, diarrhea, hormonal disturbances, sleep pattern disturbances, loose stools, abdominal pain, increased frequency of bowel movements. Dr. Bir Singh Sehrawat, Director and HOD-Gastroenterology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad, says, “To understand whether these symptoms appear especially when you are stressed, it is important to differentiate them from any organic causes. try.”
Then what is the way?
The best way to deal with stress-induced gut diseases is to address the root cause, which is stress, through exercises like meditation, pranayam, focusing on early detection and management of inflammation. “It is important to maintain a gut-friendly diet by avoiding stress-related behaviors such as overeating, alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking, and avoiding fried, spicy and caffeinated foods,” Dr Sehrawat tells us.
Additionally, they suggest that a person increase their physical health through activities such as yoga and walking, and include antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, juices, coconut, salads and green vegetables to achieve a healthy gut microbiota. Focus should be on staying hydrated with plenty of fluids. balance.
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