I don’t have the time to get all of this done… What is going to happen… When is this going to be over…
If these are the thoughts running through your head, you are STRESSED.
During these unprecedented times, we all find ourselves living a new “norm”. With new work habits and new home responsibilities. This stress can have a direct effect on your digestive system.
Stress can cause us to eat more or less than usual. Eating different foods and increased use of alcohol and/or tobacco can result in heartburn and acid reflux. Stress and exhaustion can also increase the frequency and intensity of heartburn pain. It is important to remember to pay careful attention to these symptoms and reach out to your physician if they persist or worsen.
Stress can also cause pain, inflammation, cramping, bloating and other stomach and bowel discomfort. Vomiting, diarrhea and even constipation can result when the stress is severe enough. To help alleviate these symptoms, it is important to find ways to manage your stress and anxiety.
- Get Regular Exercise. Physical activity helps reduce tension.
- Avoid, or at least reduce, consumption of Caffeine, Alcohol and Nicotine. Stimulants and depressant and increase your level of stress instead of reducing it. Swap caffeinated and alcoholic drinks for water and herbal teas. Keep yourself hydrated!
- Get more sleep. Lack of sleep can add to your stress.
- Try relaxation techniques. Incorporate yoga or mediation into your daily routine.
- Work on time management. Prioritize your to do list and accept that everything might not get done right away. It is ok to ask for help when needed.
- Talk. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, reach out to a family member, friend or healthcare professional and talk about your feelings. Problem solve solutions and release the built-up tension.
Remember we are here too. If you are having any of these symptoms, reach out to our office to schedule an appointment today. We can help get to the root of the symptoms. Hang in there. We are all in this together!
Did you know…
The Large Intestine Is Responsible for More Than Eliminating Waste-The large intestine turns liquid waste into solid stool. The large intestine is also responsible for absorbing remaining nutrients and water the body needs. Waste products include undigested parts of food as well also older cells from the GI tract.
The small intestine is about 22-23 feet long while the large intestine is only about 5 feet long.
Stomach growling is called borborygmic and happens all the time, but it is just louder when your stomach is empty because there is no food to muffle it.
The stomach can stretch and hold up to 4 pounds of food at one time.
Aerobic exercise is the best type of exercise to keep your digestive tract in shape.
The gut-brain axis is the close bond that exists between the digestive system and your brain. Emotions (including stress) and brain disorders affect how your body digests food.
Ref: Life Science: 11 surprising facts about the Digestive System
Virtual Appointments with FaceTime or Skype Now Available!
Hunterdon Gastroenterology Associates is happy to offer the ability to do virtual consultations.
Don’t ignore your symptoms… Don’t put off that screening consultation…
Call for an appointment today!
908-483-4000
