Stress can be the main cause of digestive problems: Expert – Dainik Savera Times

Lucknow: How are gastrointestinal tract problems related to stress? Stress plays a major role in causing various digestive problems like gas, colitis and amyloidosis in almost 80 percent of the cases. Experts of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology (ISG), Uttar Pradesh Chapter have emphasized this. Gastroenterologist Dr. Punit Mehrotra said, ‘Many studies have found that stress can disrupt the communication between the brain and the intestine, which can cause various types of digestive problems.

This disturbs the contractions and relaxation of the intestine that determine how fast food moves through the intestines. This gives rise to various problems. Additionally, he said, ‘the endocrine system increases production of steroid hormones, including cortisol, to activate the body’s stress response. It can also affect digestion and what nutrients the intestines absorb.’

‘Individuals with chronic stress are more likely to have disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and peptic ulcers,’ he said. Meanwhile, Professor Sumit Rungta, head of the department of medical gastroenterology at KGMU, cited the rising cases of NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). Rungta said, ‘Two decades ago, it occurred in patients who consumed alcohol or suffered from hepatitis B or C. The incidence of liver and GI cancers is increasing and being seen in the Indian population.