Introduction
Everyone experiences an upset stomach from time to time; some more often than others, and some more severe than others. Stomachaches, nausea, acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhea, heartburn, and the like can accompany another illness (such as the flu), or it can seem to come right out of the blue. Here are some common (and maybe not so common) reasons you can be experiencing certain gastrointestinal problems.
#1: Anxiety
Anxiety manifests itself in a variety of ways mentally, but also physically. Headaches are one of the most common physical symptoms of increased anxiety, but so are stomach issues. If you find that your gastrointestinal problems are stemming from some form of anxiety, you may need to seek the expert advice of a mental health professional, rather than your traditional medical professional. You can also try some natural remedies to ease your anxiety, such as aromatherapy, deep breathing techniques, exercising, meditation, yoga, and other relaxing activities. Still, it is a good idea to speak with your doctor if you have any major concerns.
#2: Diet
Some of the foods you’re eating could be negatively impacting your digestive system— and it can even be from healthy foods. For example, some people may be sensitive to tomatoes and tomato products, making certain existing conditions worse. This is also true of gluten in people who suffer from Celiac disease. You may think that digestive issues that come from certain foods are best treated with an OTC (over-the-counter) antacid, but those only provide temporary relief. In recent years, some people have received a health diagnosis resulting from taking Zantac, a popular OTC antacid.
Overall, processed foods are more likely to cause stomach problems, so it’s best to consume whole, natural foods more often than you consume foods high in sugar and saturated fats. Also, everyone is different so avoid foods that trigger stomach issues for you personally.
#3: Stress
Stress and anxiety often go together, but it is possible to feel one without the other. Many people know that chronic, severe stress can cause a variety of health problems, and gastrointestinal problems make the list. There are many natural ways to relieve stress, and many of these ways are beneficial to your overall health. It’s easy to run towards processed foods and junk food when you’re stressed out, but try not to give in to those cravings. Like with anxiety, consult a medical professional if you feel like you’re experiencing extreme stress and it’s causing major issues.
#4: You May Have a Medical Issue
Gastrointestinal issues can also be due to an underlying issue, especially if your issues are chronic. As mentioned before, Celiac disease is a sensitivity to gluten, and it’s also a common chronic gastrointestinal disease. Other diseases include Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). These two have similar symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, though IBS can also cause constipation. You may be at a higher risk of developing one of these if you have a family history of it.
You may have a more serious gastrointestinal problem if your symptoms are more chronic and more severe in nature. You should always consult with your doctor if you experience any symptoms that are concerning.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing gastrointestinal problems, it’s important that you find out the cause. It can be something as simple as eating the wrong things, or it can be a direct result of stress and/or anxiety, or it can be an underlying medical issue that needs to be diagnosed by a doctor. Whatever the cause may be, it’s still a good idea to try natural remedies for anxiety, stress, and to eat a healthy and balanced diet, along with moderate exercise daily/every other day/etc. This wellness routine is also something you can consult your doctor about, to help you live a healthier and happier life.
