A doctor spoke about the connection between bowel function and emotional state

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition characterized by abdominal pain and bloating or constipation. Many people don't realize that their emotions and stress levels can play a key role in causing these manifestations. Roman Malkov, a nutritionist and gastroenterologist at Gastro Clinic, told Izvestia on December 25 about the connection between emotional state and intestinal health.

"Stress and negative emotions trigger a chain of reactions that negatively affect the gastrointestinal tract. One manifestation is spasms in the biliary tract, which disrupts the flow of bile. And it plays a critical role in the digestive process, as it helps to break down and digest fats, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K)," - explained Malkov.

According to him, insufficient bile outflow causes incomplete breakdown of fats, which leads to abdominal bloating, heaviness and constipation. In addition, lack of bile reduces the absorption of nutrients, which can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. This, in turn, can cause new symptoms of ill health and health problems. For example, vitamin D and iron deficiencies can contribute to fatigue, decreased energy and even depression.

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According to the expert, stressful situations and anxiety contribute to an increase in pathogens and fungi such as Candida. In addition, an imbalance in the microbiota also affects the synthesis of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood levels.

"Underneath the symptoms of IBS, parasitic infections may be lurking. Popular dishes, such as sushi, low-salted fish, can contain helminth eggs if they are prepared from low-quality products. Lamblia, ascarids and other parasites can enter the body even by consuming poorly washed vegetables or water," the doctor said.

To improve gut health and mental well-being, Malkow advises adding foods that promote bile production, such as olive oil, avocados, leafy green vegetables and nuts, to your diet. Relaxation techniques, including meditation, breathing techniques and psychotherapy, help manage stress and anxiety. Controlling your emotional state helps improve bowel function.

Earlier, on December 23, Suna Isakova, a medical oncologist at the SberZdorovye medical company, told Izvestia about polyps in the intestines. According to her, some types of intestinal polyps can degenerate into a malignant tumor, so if they were detected at colonoscopy, they are subject to removal. In exceptional cases, polyps can cause excessive mucus production, which can cause the loss of an important trace element for the body - potassium.