How does stress affect digestion?You may not be aware of how closely our brain and gut work together. For instance, the stomach may begin to create digestive juices with the mere notion of food, much as the thought of giving a large presentation may result in constipation or uncontrollable bowel movements.”A history of stress and trauma may contribute to some gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),” says Dr. Tracey Torosian, Ph. D., a health psychologist who specializes in gastrointestinal health with Henry Ford Health.The effect of chronic stress on the digestive systemIf you have personally experienced stress effects on digestion, you will know the pain yourself. “When we’re stressed, our brain activates the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system is our flight-or-fight response: it prepares the body to protect itself against imminent danger by conserving functions that aren’t immediately needed for survival. That includes digestion. The emptying of the stomach is delayed, which can lead to a stomachache, indigestion, heartburn and nausea,’’ Dr. Torosian further clarified while talking about the stress effects on digestion.Tips for alleviating stress and calming your stomachThese are the few tips which doctors, therapists and specialists suggest in order to reduce the impact of stress which in turn will calm our stomachs-Start meditating to soothe your nerves which will induce deep sleep.Eat foods rich in fiber like leafy vegetables, oats, fruits etc. and cut down on meats, carbohydrate rich diets which include a lot of flour, like pizzas, biscuits etc.Exercise regularly and go for regular walks. This helps in the production of happy hormones which reduce stress and help the patient sleep better.Take regular breaks and vacation. If you are a workaholic, you need to work hard to separate your personal life from work, especially these days when most people are still working from home. Make time for relaxing activities like playing sports, taking your pet out for a job, playing with your kids etc. Listen to soothing music and try to drift off to sleep.Take relaxing massages and try aromatherapy. The essential oils will soothe your mind and body and will bring down your stress levels from your muscles and tissues