How much of an effect do psychological factors have on gut health?
I have come across some theories that suggest mental health can be directly related to bowel health, recommending meditation, stress-relief exercises and therapy for IBS patients. Does this have a medical basis? Should I consider professional help for healthy and regular bowel movements?
Healthcare Providers (2)
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You understand and agree that use of the Website does not in any way create or establish a physician-patient privilege or physician-patient relationship between you and any Medical Professional Member. You should recognize that the information provided on the Website (including past questions and answers and articles posted on the site) is provided for your general information. These materials should not be relied on as medical advice and reading and reviewing them is not a substitute for direct consultation with a medical professional about a specific medical problem.
Without limiting the foregoing, you understand and agree that submitting a Free Question or receiving an answer to a Free Question does not in any way create or establish an physician-patient relationship between you and any Medical Professional Member, or between you and us. The information and answers provided in response to Free Questions is intended to be generic medical information, not medical advice, and is based upon the very limited information provided by you in a Free Question. Specific medical advice can only be given with full knowledge of all of the facts and circumstances of your situation. If you are currently being treated by a doctor, that doctor is the best person to give you advice about a medical case or medical matter. Under no circumstances should the information obtained on this site be used to make decisions about the quality of service provided by a doctor or about the proper course of a medical matter.
Yes, there is a big relationship between mental health and gut health. I do suggest getting professional help but I think it is important to see a gastroenterologist to rule out something in the GI tract, and also work on the mental health issues.
There is a strong relationship between the nervous system and the colon since the colon movements are controlled by nerves. Any stress on the body could stimulate the nerves and this could affect the colon. You should see a gastroenterologist first and they could refer you to a motility specialist if symptoms persist.