Can stress and anxiety really cause stomach problems?

Your gut is often called your 'second brain' for a reason. The gut-brain axis is a direct line of communication, meaning your emotional state directly impacts your digestive system. Stress and anxiety can alter gut motility, increase inflammation, and even change your gut bacteria, leading to real physical discomfort like nausea, stomach pain, or digestive irregularities. Managing stress through therapy, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes is key to improving these somatic symptoms.