Mental stress is not only an emotional issue but also a medical risk factor that simultaneously affects the digestive and cardiovascular systems. Many studies show that prolonged stress responses can change the physiological activities of the body, from bowel movements to heart rate and blood pressure.
Dr. Arpit Bansal - an oncologist and gut health expert - said that when people fall into a state of stress, the body will activate the survival mechanism. The sympathetic nervous system works strongly, slowing down digestion and diverting blood from the intestines to other important organs. Imbalance of the gut microbiome can appear, leading to heartburn, bloating, digestive disorders, symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome and prolonged inflammation.
Physiological impact on the cardiovascular system
At the same time, stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol increase heart rate, vasoconstriction and high blood pressure. The heart has to work harder to meet the body's needs in a state of high alertness. A commonly used indicator to assess the adaptability of the heart is heart rate variability. When chronic stress, this indicator decreases, reflecting the weakness of the cardiovascular system's regulation.
Professor Andrew Steptoe - a health psychologist at University College London - said that prolonged stress is closely related to systemic inflammation and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. According to him, if the stress response is repeated regularly without being controlled, the body will fall into a state of biological overload.
Brain - intestines - heart axis and recovery mechanism
The connection between the brain, intestines and cardiovascular system is regulated through the alveolar nerve. When the body is in a relaxed state, this nerve promotes effective digestion, reduces inflammatory reactions and stabilizes heart rate. Conversely, when stress prevails, this regulating axis is disrupted.
Experts recommend medical-based measures such as slow and deep breathing, regular physical exercise, getting enough sleep and maintaining a balanced diet to support the gut microbiome and stabilize blood pressure. Managing stress not only improves the quality of life but also plays a role in preventing cardiovascular and digestive diseases in the long term.
