Gut Health and Emotional Well-being: How the Gut and Mind Are Connected
- hirokohomeopathy
- Jun 8
- 7 min read
Updated: Jun 9
Gut Health, stress, hormone balance, skin health... it is often said that all of these are interconnected. But why exactly are they related?
In this series, we will explore these connections. This time, we will focus on the link between gut health and stress.
Many people notice that stress affects their digestion.
During periods of emotionally stress, symptoms such as:
bloating
stomach discomfort
constipation
loose stools
nausea
loss of appetite
may worsen.
At the same time, ongoing digestive discomfort can also affect emotional wellbeing, energy levels and sleep.
This close relationship between the gut and emotional health is sometimes called the “gut-brain connection.”
#1 - Looking into our gut
It is known that the intestines not only digest food, but also that substances produced by the many intestinal flora living in them play a significant role in the functions of our bodies.
The balance of gut flora
It is said that our intestines maintain a balance of 70% beneficial bacteria and 30% harmful bacteria. When this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria are said to grow stronger and place a strain on our intestines.
Leaky gut
In the intestines, beneficial bacteria form a protective layer on the surface of the intestines, shielding substances as they are absorbed. When these beneficial bacteria decrease and this protective layer can no longer be formed, toxins and unwanted substances are absorbed from the intestine through gaps in the layer. This condition is called leaky gut.
By maintaining the balance of gut flora, our bodies can keep various functions in a stable state, including not only nutrient metabolism and energy regeneration, but also the regulation of the immune system, defence against pathogenic infections, production of vitamins and neurotransmitters, and bowel motility, allowing each function to be fully utilised and stabilised.
#2 - How stress may affect digestion - Gut Health and Emotional Well-being
In recent years, the phrase "the gut is the second brain" has become more widely known, drawing attention to the relationship between the gut and the brain.
The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body, connecting the gut and the brain, allowing the brain to influence gut activity, and vice versa.
When the body remains in a prolonged state of stress or tension, digestion may become more sensitive.
Some people notice:
increased bloating during busy periods
digestive discomfort before important events
worsening IBS symptoms during emotional stress
food sensitivities becoming more noticeable
Emotional wellbeing and physical health are often deeply connected.
Why are the gut and stress connected?
As mentioned above, intestinal bacteria produce important substances, and here are some examples of those that are particularly related to stress.
Serotonin
It is said that 90-95% of the serotonin in our bodies is produced in the gut. It is a substance that soothes the mood and is also known to be involved in the production of melatonin, which is related to sleep, and known for its mood-relaxing properties.
Dopamine
It influences emotions such as motivation, drive, pleasure and reward, and also affects muscles, bowel movement and rhythms.
GABA
GABA is a neurotransmitter that calms brain excitation and helps regulate the balance of the autonomic nervous system. Some gut bacteria are said to send signals that promote calmness.
Glutamine
Glutamine is an important amino acid for maintaining gut and brain function. It serves as an energy source for cells, strengthens the gut barrier function, and prevents harmful substances from entering the body due to leaky gut.
Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine helps the muscles of the intestine move, making the digestive system function more smoothly.
Norepinephline
Norepinephline is a neurotransmitter that is activated in response to stress, reducing or slowing down intestinal motility and thereby facilitating stress coping.
Stress affects our gut, which in turn affects our mood.
Fight or Flight mode
This is a state where the body enters an alert mode in order to survive. During this period, stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline are secreted. While this is fine for a short period to cope with high stress levels, if this state continues, digestion and bodily repair will be put on the back burner, making it difficult for healing to occur.
Rest and Repair mode
This is a healing state where you feel at ease, inflammation subsides, and digestion and bodily repair become easier.
When people are chronically exposed to stress, they unconsciously enter a "fight or flight" mode, and their bodies try to cope with continuous mental pressure.
When stress from work deadlines, relationship problems, lack of sleep, worries and anxieties persists for a long period, our brains perceive danger and send signals to respond. Because this crisis response takes priority, functions such as digestion and recovery are put on hold.
When digestive and recovery functions are neglected, the balance of gut bacteria and the recovery of the intestinal lining are delayed.
As mentioned above, the intestines are not only responsible for digestion, but also for the production of important neurochemicals and hormones, which depend on the balance of gut bacteria. When stress and negative emotional burdens are placed on the body, gut function is disrupted, and the body's repair process is delayed.
#3 - A holistic perspective
People tend to focus on the physical symptoms they currently have, but sometimes, even when they believe they are maintaining a healthy lifestyle, those bothersome symptoms do not go away. For example, they may say "No matter how much attentionI pay to my diet, the symptoms don't go away," or "I am careful about choosing skincare products, but my skin condition does not improve."
In holistic approaches such as homeopathy, the whole person is considered.
This may include:
emotional stress
Are you overly sensitive to certain emotions, or are you suppressing your true feelings? What situations cause you stress? Where do these patterns originate?
sleep patterns
Are you getting enough sleep at the right time?
digestive tendencies
We ask about digestion, bowel movements, and any reactions to specific foods.
energy levels
How is your energy level? Do you notice specific times when it increases or decreases?
lifestyle habits
We look at your lifestyle, including your diet and living environment, to identify any factors that may be contributing to your symptoms.
hormonal balance
Is your period regular? Do you experience pain, mood swings, or bloating during your period?
Rather than looking only at isolated symptoms, a holistic approach explores the overall balance of the individual.
During homeopathic consultations, we explore into what may be hindering the body's recovery, what emotions may be deeply buried, and more. This approach aims to address the root cause , helping to prevent the recurrence of the same patterns rather than simply providing temporary relief.
The way people experience stress varies. Even in the same environment, some may feel significant stress, while others may not be bothered by it very much.
Based on an understanding of each individual's sensitivity to stress and their reaction patterns, we begin by considering the mind and body as interconnected and influencial to one another, rather than focusing solely on symptoms.
Building on this understanding, homeopathy is a therapy that seeks to identify and resolves issues in a way that is tailored to the individual's condition.
#4 - Gentle ways to support gut and emotional wellbeing
Where can we start?
Some people find support through:
regular meals
Avoid processed foods and meals high in additives, keep your diet easy to digest, and avoid eating late at night.
reducing overstimulation
Computers and mobile phones emit blue light, which can be irritating to the eyes. In addition, constantly stimulating the bodywith coffee or energy drinks while coping with stress can disrupt the balance between rest and recovery. While there are many forms of stimulation, it is important to listen to your body's signals and allow yourself to understand its natural rhythms.
mindful rest
Aim for high-quality deep sleep, and try to sleep in alignment with your body's natural repair cycle.
gentle movement
Moderate exercise promotes lymphatic and blood circulation, improves muscle tone and physical fitness, and can also lead to better sleep through healthy fatigue.
emotional support
By joining an environment or group where you can express your true feelings, you can release suppressed emotions and stress, and find a place where you can truly be yourself.
homeopathy
As mentioned above, homeopathy provides holistic healing by understanding the whole person, including not only the symptoms, but also the body, mind and emotions.
relaxation practices
Create a relaxing environment to step away from stress. Taking a walk in a park or on the beach, or simply connecting with nature, can help restore your body's natural rhythm. It is often said that when people are stressed, their breathing becomes shallow. Deep breathing can help promote relaxation. Meditation can also help quiet the mind.
Small daily habits can sometimes make a meaningful difference over time.
It can be difficult to change everything at once, but by making small changes one by one, you can build on them and create opportunities for significant change later on.
Regarding lifestyle, we also offer a free eBook "Healthy Lifestyle."
You can download it using the button below.
#5 - Final thoughts...
The gut and mind are closely connected.
When we support emotional wellbeing, digestion may also feel more settled. Likewise, improving digestive balance may have a positive effect on emotional resilience.
Supporting health holistically means recognising the connection between mind and body.
A personalised homeopathic approach may help you better understand what your body has been trying to tell you.
If you would like to work with me, please click the button below.
All the best for your healing journey!
Love and gratitude
Hiroko
Reference
Al Swadi. M., (2026) The Skin Gut Brain Reset Your Skin Is Not The Problem. Nourished3 Inc. Dunstable. United Kingdom
Campbell-McBride. n., (2010) Gut and Psuchology Syndrome. Revised and Expanded Edition. Medinform Publishing. United Kingdom
Pimentel.M and Rezaie.A., (2022) The Microbiome Connection Your guide To IBS, SIBO, And Low-Fermentation Eating. Agate Publishing. United States
