Stress and digestion
Eating while stressed out can shut down the digestive system. This prevents food from being digested and absorbed into the bloodstream.
When we are under stress, our sympathetic, or “fight or flight” nervous system is activated. Norepinephrine and epinephrine are released, and the body is primed and ready to manage a perceived threat. Our nervous system isn’t much different than that of our ancestors. It doesn’t matter if the threat is a moose charging directly at us, being stuck in traffic, or a looming deadline at the office. Our body will perceive this “threat” as something to flee, or attack. At this time, cortisol floods the body with glucose for instant energy, our heart rate goes up, pupils dilate, but digestion is shut down, as it isn’t vital for immediate survival.
If you’re currently under stress, try your best to manage it before, during and after you eat. When the body is under a constant state of low-level stress, the hormone cortisol circulating in the bloodstream is chronically elevated. Digestion is suppressed. The mucosal layer of our small intestine becomes inflamed, leading to even more production of cortisol, and our body becomes tired.
Many people experience uncomfortable symptoms of gastrointestinal distress like heartburn, bloating and gas after eating while stressed out. If you suffer from digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, or other chronic conditions, it is vital to control stress before eating, to keep the mucosal layer from being further inflamed.
The parasympathetic or “rest and digest” nervous system needs to be active for quiet activities like eating. However, both nervous systems cannot be active at the same time! So, while eating, it is vital to get your body into a relaxed, parasympathetic state. This will allow your food to be properly digested and its nutrients to be absorbed.
Eating in the car, at your desk while working on a stressful project, or standing in the kitchen while chasing your kids – these activities keep us in a sympathetic state. It’s best to eat in a relaxed setting, at a table, either alone or with others, to savor each bite and chew slowly. If you must eat at your desk, try not to work on stressful projects during that time. Taking a few moments to eat quietly will help you feel better and get more done!
Eating in a parasympathetic, or “rest and digest” state allows your digestive system to work optimally!
