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Around 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder each year. Over 40 million adults in the U.S. have an anxiety disorder.
Did you know that these two things could go hand in hand?
The gut-brain connection impacts how our entire body processes what is happening in and around us. Ready to learn more about how the gut-brain connection and health are related? Keep reading!
What Is the Gut-Brain Connection?
You may read this and not think that gut-brain connection is a thing. But it is!
Your gut health directly impacts your brain and vice versa.
Think about it. You’ve probably had butterflies before. You may have also been through an experience where you get nauseous based on your emotions.
This is because your gut and brain are connected. This means that a person’s stomach or intestinal issues could be the cause or the effect of anxiety, stress, and depression.
Connection of Gut Health and Anxiety
Interestingly enough, psychological and physical factors can mix to cause issues. This means that psychosocial factors such as stress or depression can influence the physiology of the gut. So if you are feeling extra stressed, your gut health will feel the effects (whether through nausea, diarrhea, or something else).
If you are someone who experiences anxiety and GI issues, treating yourself through therapy can reduce stress and help the overall physiological symptoms of your digestive system.
Additionally, those who experience IBS or bowel issues could benefit from treatments such as antidepressants and mind-body therapy such as CBT.
The other one is more likely to follow by healing one of the issues. This is why there is such an importance of gut health in your overall emotional well-being as well.
Improving the Gut-Brain Connection
Now that you know your gut and emotional well-being are connected, you may wonder what you can do to ensure your body stays balanced.
There are several preventative measures you can take that impact both your mind and body in a positive way.
For instance, practicing yoga is beneficial to help improve GI symptoms, boost your mood, and decrease anxiety. All of these go hand in hand.
Other practices that can be beneficial for you are meditation, mindfulness, breathing exercises, hypnotherapy, massage, and yoga.
In addition to daily practices that you can add to your life to improve your gut-brain connection, you can also change your diet. Incorporating healthier foods for the gut also benefits your brain health. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are great for inflammation in both your brain and your gut.
Add more whole grains, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables to your diet to improve your overall well-being.
Improve Your Gut-Brain Connection
After reading this article, you may realize your gut-brain connection is off.
If so, you can start taking steps today to fix both issues!