Whoever called it the "nervous" system, knew what they were doing! Your nerves can have severe effects on your gut and by extension on your life!

There is a strong connection between the gut and stress. The gut is sometimes referred to as the "second brain" because it contains its own nervous system, known as the enteric nervous system, which can operate independently of the brain and spinal cord.

STRESS - THE AFTER EFFECTS! When you experience stress, your body's "fight or flight" response is activated, which can lead to changes in your gut. Stress can cause increased blood flow to the gut, which can lead to digestive issues like; Constipation, Diarrhoea and Nausea. It also leads to increased inflammation in the gut, which has been linked to a variety of health problems, including; Inflammatory bowel disease and Irritable bowel syndrome.

The gut microbiome can also influence mood and behaviour, and some studies have suggested that certain probiotics may help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.

STRESS NOT! Overall, the connection between the gut and stress is complex and multifaceted. It is important to manage stress through healthy lifestyle habits like; Exercise, Probiotics, Relaxation techniques and Mindful eating.