How Stress Can Impact Digestion

We’ve all felt that flutter in the stomach before a big event, or the sudden loss of appetite when we’re anxious — and there’s a good reason for it. The gut and brain are intimately connected through what’s called the gut–brain axis: a two-way communication system involving the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.

When we’re under chronic stress, this delicate balance can be disrupted, leading to a range of digestive issues. Here’s how stress may be showing up in your gut health, and what you can do about it.

1. Bloating or Discomfort

When the body goes into “fight or flight” mode, the sympathetic nervous system slows down digestion. Gastric secretions decrease, gut motility changes, and you might experience bloating, gas, or abdominal tension. This is your body diverting energy away from digestion to prepare for perceived danger — even if that danger is just a full inbox.

2. Irregular Bowel Movements

The enteric nervous system, sometimes called the “second brain,” regulates how quickly or slowly food moves through the gut. Under stress, bowel movements can speed up (leading to diarrhoea) or slow down (causing constipation), depending on how your body responds.

3. Loss of Appetite or Nausea

Stress hormones like cortisol can suppress hunger cues, making it harder to feel like eating. In some cases, stress interferes with gastric emptying, which may leave you feeling nauseous or uncomfortably full after only a few bites.

4. Nutrient Absorption Issues

Long-term stress can reduce the production of digestive enzymes and increase gut permeability (sometimes called “leaky gut”), meaning your body may struggle to absorb nutrients effectively — even if you’re eating a balanced diet.

Supporting Your Gut–Brain Connection

The good news? There are simple, everyday ways to help restore balance:

• Eat mindfully: Slow down at mealtimes, take a few deep breaths before eating, and avoid distractions.

• Incorporate calming herbs: Our Digest blend contains soothing fennel, peppermint, and calendula to relax the digestive tract, while our Serenity blend features chamomile and lavender to calm the nervous system.

• Prioritise rest: Sleep and relaxation are just as important as nutrition when it comes to digestion.

By supporting both your nervous system and your gut, you can reduce the impact of stress on your digestion — and enjoy your meals again.