Why Do Digestive Symptoms Get Worse with Stress?

Does Stress Affect Digestion?

Does stress affect digestion? Absolutely—stress is a major contributor to digestive issues and plays a key role in conditions like IBS and acid reflux. The reason lies in how our bodies are wired for survival. Our nervous system has two branches: the fight or flight mode and the rest and digest mode. When we feel stressed or in danger, the body activates the fight or flight response to help us escape or defend ourselves. Heart rate increases, energy is redirected to the muscles—and digestion gets shut down, since it’s not essential in a crisis.

Do Digestive Symptoms Get Worse with Stress?

In extreme stress, this shutdown can lead to nausea, urgent bowel movements, or even vomiting—reactions you might have experienced during highly emotional or shocking moments. When we’re calm, the rest and digest system takes over, allowing our bodies to properly break down food and absorb nutrients. Think of these two systems like a seesaw—when one is up, the other goes down. So yes, when you're stressed, your digestion suffers as a direct result.

What Is Stress in Modern Life?

In prehistoric times, stress meant escaping predators—once the danger passed, digestion could resume normally. But today, our bodies interpret many everyday pressures as threats. Work deadlines, financial strain, constant digital stimulation, and negative news can all trigger the same stress response. It’s like being stuck in a constant state of high alert. As a result, we spend far less time in the rest and digest state, making it harder for our stomachs to do their job.

Eating while stressed can further disrupt digestion, often leading to bloating, cramps, reflux, or irregular bowel movements.

How to Support Digestion During Stress

Managing stress isn’t always simple—quitting your job or avoiding life’s responsibilities isn’t realistic for most people. But small changes can make a big difference. Try disconnecting from devices during meals, avoid watching the news while eating, and take a few deep, calming breaths before you begin a meal. These simple shifts can help activate the rest and digest mode, improving how your body processes food.

So, the next time you find yourself eating while stressed, pause and take a breath. You might be surprised at how much better your digestion feels.