Short-term stress can be uncomfortable, but chronic stress can create a much larger problem.
Months or years of ongoing pressure can change eating patterns, affect gut bacteria, disrupt sleep, and worsen existing digestive conditions.
Dr Misra explained, “Chronic stress can worsen digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and indigestion. It can also affect eating habits; some people overeat while others lose their appetite, both of which hurt gut health.”
The impact does not stop there.
Poor sleep, a common companion of stress, can further disrupt digestive function.
“Stress-related sleep problems also play a part. Poor sleep affects metabolism and disrupts the balance of healthy gut bacteria, which are vital for digestion and immunity. Over time, this imbalance may lead to inflammation and ongoing digestive discomfort,” says Dr Misra.
While attitude alone cannot eliminate stress, it highlights how deeply the mind and body influence each other.
