Understand how stress and mental health can affect our gut

The diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has shown a significant increase in recent years. It is estimated that between 6 and 8 million people around the world live with this condition. The two main forms of IBD are Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. In ulcerative colitis, the inflammation begins in the rectum and spreads continuously throughout the colon, concentrating in the region. Crohn’s disease, on the other hand, can affect any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, including the small intestine, large intestine, and other areas.

Maintaining a healthy gut can help reduce the risk of developing these diseases. According to Victor Chedid, gastroenterologist and IBD specialist at Mayo Clinic, it is essential to understand the characteristics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease and maintain habits that help with intestinal health as a form of prevention. 

Below, learn some facts about the disease:

Stress and mental health have a significant impact on Inflammatory Bowel

DiseaseThe gut-brain axis is one of the most important for the human body and therefore there is a direct relationship between what happens in the digestive tract and our emotions. It is essential, in the case of IBD, to control stress, as there is already evidence that high levels can aggravate intestinal inflammation, intensifying the symptoms of the disease.

It is also advisable to follow up with psychologists and therapists to work on behavioral and breathing techniques that help patients better deal with symptoms.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease can be confused with other diseases

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that affects the digestive tract, characterized by persistent inflammation. This inflammation can be triggered by genetic predisposition or environmental exposures that activate inflammatory cells that attack the gut.

IBD patients experience a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea and abdominal pain, which can lead to a misdiagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). However, these conditions are different. While IBD is marked by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, IBS, more common in young people, does not involve inflammation.

Symptoms such as blood in the stool, fever, and extraintestinal manifestations, such as eye inflammation, arthritis, spinal inflammation, and skin rashes, are not present in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In addition, Crohn’s disease, a type of IBD, can be confused with appendicitis, due to the intense pain in the final part of the small intestine, near the appendix, often accompanied by fever. Due to the similarity of the symptoms, it is always necessary to perform a colonoscopy for an accurate diagnosis.

Physical exercise and a balanced diet are essential for the prevention of intestinal diseases

Although there is no specific diet that prevents IBD, maintaining a balanced diet is crucial to preserve intestinal health and prevent inflammatory diseases. This includes consuming between 30 and 40 grams of fiber per day, as well as antioxidants, found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. It is also important to avoid ultra-processed foods, which are harmful to the body.

Adequate water intake, about 2 liters per day, is also essential to avoid constipation and ensure proper organ function. Hydration is even more crucial in hot weather, where dehydration can be a greater risk. In addition to food, regular physical exercise has a positive impact on intestinal health. Exercise stimulates the circulatory system, increases bowel movements, and helps keep inflammation levels lower. Although physical activity does not completely eliminate the risk of disease, it contributes significantly to prevention and the maintenance of general well-being.

IBD may be related to autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases are often associated with the development of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). Patients with IBD often have a genetic predisposition to inflammation and may also have diagnoses of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, psoriasis, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Currently, some early research suggests that diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may originate from changes in the gut microbiota, just like IBD. Although this research is recent, in the future, it is believed that treatments for autoimmune diseases may involve modulating the microbiota and controlling these inflammations.

There is no cure for inflammatory bowel disease, but it is possible to control it

Although IBD has no cure, there are several treatments that help patients achieve remission. It is important to identify the specific form and degree of the disease. Treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologics, antibiotics, and surgery. A multidisciplinary approach, involving gastroenterologists, pharmacists, nutritionists and psychologists, is essential.

“Paying attention to all of these factors is essential to maintaining your gut health,” Chedid explains. The doctor also points out that families can play a crucial role in helping patients cope with IBD, as symptoms such as diarrhoea can affect their self-esteem and well-being. 

“That means being there for when they need it, recognizing that they will not always be themselves at all times,” he says. “There will be times when they feel down, are in pain or won’t eat what you’ve cooked. Don’t be offended. You just need to be there for them.” 

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