Think back to the last time you felt stressed. Maybe you were worried about work or concerned about money. Perhaps, along with that general uneasiness, you felt it in your gut.
As it turns out, you’re not alone. Psychological distress contributes to the severity of acid indigestion and heartburn.
That’s because when you’re extra stressed your stomach produces more acid, and that leads to discomfort.
AN UNCOMFORTABLE CYCLE OF STRESS
Stress makes acid indigestion and heartburn worse
It’s proven. In fact, the American Journal of Gastroenterology wondered about the correlation between stress, acid indigestion, and heartburn. So they researched a group of adults with heartburn.
What they found is that participants with higher stress levels showed more severe symptoms than those with lower stress levels. So on top of that delicious plate of triple-volcanic buffalo wings with your favorite fizzy beverage, stress can cause physical symptoms.
Stress can cause acid indigestion and heartburn — which can stress you out even more.
This is how it goes: your potential new boss starts drilling in on some fussy detail. Your accountant reveals a huge, expensive tax error. You hit a big pothole with a towering wedding cake in the back seat. Or … OMG! … your drive-thru order is all wrong and you’re already late.
Suddenly ... ugh. You feel acid indigestion or heartburn.
Your stomach is making sure you know how stressed out you are.
Because stress can cause stomach acid to build up. That can create all the discomfort and acid indigestion associated with heartburn.
But what if you’ve had all those spicy wings as well? The fat, spice, and salt all contribute to producing more stomach acid and relaxing your lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that seals the connection between your stomach and throat.
So now there’s more acid and it’s leaking up into your esophagus. That’s acid indigestion and heartburn.
What’s worse, if you’re losing sleep over it all, the lack of rest can also cause your symptoms to spike.
Tips to lower stress and reduce heartburn
Just because stress and certain foods cause heartburn doesn’t mean you shouldn’t live the way you like and eat what you want.
Start by acknowledging that you’re stressed and consider what might be adding to it. Then figure out some ways to diminish it.
CONSIDER THESE LIFESTYLE CHANGES
If you’re stressed and experiencing acid indigestion and heartburn, there are some pretty easy changes you can make.
Get moving. Do some vigorous exercise.
Improve your diet. Include fresh fruit and vegetables.
Create a calming environment. Enjoy relaxing essential oil aromatherapy.
Reach for the decaf. Have a soothing cup of herbal tea.
Get plenty of rest. Make sure your bedroom and bed are cozy and supportive.
Relax. Try meditation or deep breathing.
Get a laugh. Watch your favorite rom-com or plan a fun outing.
And discuss any concerns about digestion and mental health with your doctor.
So you follow every piece of advice. You’re rested. You’re chill. And all of a sudden life throws you a curve and you feel acid indigestion coming on.
You’ve got Rolaids®. They work to reduce stomach acid, calm symptoms, and help you feel better. That’s why we make them.