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Writer's pictureTeri Sewell

How Your Thoughts and Digestion are Connected

Updated: Dec 29, 2022


Hello everyone,


Remember when 2020 felt like it was 16 months long and 2021 went on forevvvvver? I sure do.


Now, this post-pandemic world seems to be speeding up, and, I'm OK with it. Instead of fighting it, I'm embracing it.


It's January 2023 and we are talking about what your thoughts have to do with your digestion. How we feel can have tremendous effects on our physical well-being, both in positive and negative ways. Mental and physical health are not separate but deeply intertwined. Probably one of the clearest examples of this connection is the link between our thoughts and the digestive system, known as the gut-brain connection.

The digestive system is a powerful but sensitive organ system. From experiencing motion sickness to feeling queasy at the sight of blood, many of us have experienced an upset digestive system triggered by something other than food and drinks. If you’ve ever felt anxious or stressed, you may have experienced an uncomfortable feeling in your belly as a result. That is a perfect example of how our thoughts can impact our digestive system. The connection between our minds and digestion is also evident when we look at the vast number of nerves that we have in the gut. The central nervous system in the brain regulates the many processes of digestion. When we feel stressed, our bodies go into fight-or-flight mode. From an evolutionary perspective, this was a critical response that prepared us to either run away or fight when faced with danger. Nowadays, this situation usually isn’t applicable, but the response is still the same. When the fight-or-flight response is activated, the body releases cortisol, which is our stress hormone. When we are chronically stressed (which many of us are), cortisol is continuously released— leading to negative consequences on our health. As you may imagine, a situation where one would either have to run or fight is not the best time to digest food. Thus, in response to stress, the body slows down digestion. Stress can cause irregular bowel movements (such as constipation), inflammation in the digestive tract, nausea, and increased acidity in the stomach, which can cause heartburn and ulcers. Stress can have even more detrimental consequences over time and can worsen symptoms in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). On a more positive note, reducing stress can do wonders for the digestive system. Find ways to relax and improve your mood— what do you enjoy doing, what brings you peace? Yoga and meditation are both effective ways to decrease stress and improve your digestive health. I love yoga, Those stretches and moves have always been a positive thing in my life. As far as meditation, start for a minute or two each day and see how you feel. With practice, you’ll find it easier to sit for more extended periods at a time. Exercise is also a healthy way to reduce stress, especially if you’re able to go outdoors. Exercise releases endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that decrease stress and elevate our mood. Moving your body also helps to get things moving in your digestive system, which can help with constipation or bloating. Remember to make time for yourself and make your well-being a priority.

Your life is a reflection of your priorities.

Here's what's coming in 2023 in. The new year is about Mindset, Movement and Meals. My kitchen is a plant based nutrition kitchen. I am bringing back and continuing the Wellness Walks, Plant Based Nutrition Kitchen demos and classes, plus I am kicking off the year with a 30 Day Plant Based Transformation Online Course. Join https://www.luvyourhealthylife.com/ where you will be on the list to hear about all the things happening in 2023. You'll get information first hand about all courses, especially the 30 Day Plant Based Transformation course. You don't want to miss this. Why, because adopting a plant based diet (even for a few weeks) can be a life changing experience, as well as an amazing move for your health. This is a beta program (first launch) and will be promoted to my Wellness Walk and Talk Group on Facebook at discounted cost. In the meantime, out with the old, and in with the new. Hit reply, I would love to hear from you. Warmest Wishes, Teri Sewell Huff Integrative Nutrition Health and Plant Based Kitchen coach I love food and I love connecting with people. My goal is to inspire you to create amazing food. Click below for a free challenge. More About Me 5 Day Eating Well for Less Challenge Are you following me yet?

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