In the past we have typically said that stress may cause an increase in stomach acid and could lead to the erosion of mucosal tissue causing ulcers in the stomach and upper intestines. This leads to taking things that may decrease stomach acid. However…. Physiologically when the body is under stress or in a Sympathetic state, Stomach acid goes DECREASES!
This is because blood gets diverted away from the gut and concentrated towards the brain and muscle in times of stress. Digestion is not essential to survival, so when the body goes into a state of sympathetic dominance – fight or flight or stress mode the body diverts its blood supply to the important parts of the body needed for our survival. Therefore, all digestive enzymes and juices DECREASE with stress.. How many of you are living a stressful life, constantly on the go, eating on the go and never relaxing?!
Signs of decreased stomach acid and poor digestion could include things like heartburn, bloating, indigestion and weight gain.
When our acid levels within the stomach are within balance the oesophageal sphincter will close. A decrease in acid within the stomach during times of stress will cause the sphincter to stay open meaning that the little available stomach acid can irritate the oesophagus and may cause symptoms of heartburn, reflux and indigestion. Stress also decreases mucous production within the stomach and could decrease the protection lining of the gut. This may affect nutrient absorption and could cause ulcers. Stomach acid or Hydrochloric Acid is needed to break down proteins and digest our food properly. Poor digestion may lead to inflammation, reactivity and sensitivities to foods and a change in weight.
Natural ways to increase stomach acid production include:
- Relaxing at meal times and eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- Add fermented vegetables to your diet
- Increase zinc intake – zinc is critical for the production of HCL.
Have a chat to us if you think your digestive system may be compromised due to stress.