Do you get a ‘gut feeling’? Well, it’s not just an idiom. The feeling in your gut has the potential to influence your decision due to the intricate relationship between mind and gut health.
Gut health is paramount as it plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. The gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” houses trillions of microorganisms that contribute to digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mood regulation.
Dr Sanjay Khanna, Director and HOD – Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh explained that poor gut health can lead to various gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and malabsorption syndromes.
“Moreover, research suggests that an unhealthy gut microbiome is associated with systemic health conditions like obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and even mental health disorders,” Dr. Khanna told Financial Express.com.
How does poor mental health affect your gut?
According to Dr. Khanaa, the connection between the mind and the gut is known as the gut-brain axis.
“This bidirectional communication system involves complex interactions between the central nervous system (CNS), enteric nervous system (ENS) of the gut, and the gut microbiota. The gut-brain axis influences various physiological processes, including digestion, mood regulation, stress response, and immune function. Dysfunction in this axis can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, as well as psychological conditions like anxiety and depression,” he revealed.
What are the symptoms of poor gut health?
Poor mental health, particularly chronic stress and anxiety, can adversely affect gut health through the gut-brain axis. Dr. Khanna explained that stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathetic nervous system, leading to alterations in gut motility, increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), and dysregulation of the gut microbiota.
“This can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and contribute to the development or worsening of gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS or IBD. Symptoms of this effect may include exacerbated digestive issues, changes in bowel habits, and increased susceptibility to infections or inflammation,” he said.
Symptoms of poor gut health include chronic digestive issues like:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Food intolerances, fatigue, and
- Mood disturbances
How to improve gut health?
To improve gut health, individuals should focus on adopting a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and probiotics.
According to Dr. Khanna, regular exercise, stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, and adequate sleep also promote gut health.
“It’s essential to recognize the interconnectedness of gut health, mental health, and overall well-being. Taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy gut, such as adopting a nutritious diet, managing stress, getting regular exercise, and seeking support for mental health concerns, can significantly impact one’s quality of life,” he told Financial Express.com.
Consulting with a healthcare professional, including a gastroenterologist, can provide personalized recommendations for optimizing gut health and addressing related concerns, he emphasised.
He also maintained that prioritising gut health through lifestyle modifications and seeking appropriate medical care can positively influence not only gastrointestinal health but also overall physical and mental well-being.