Is Your Upset Stomach Linked to Grief
Most people associate grief with emotional pain. But grief is far more complex. Grief and loss often come with physical issues, and some that you may not have considered. So if you have been feeling queasy, lost your appetite or struggling with bowel problems your grief may be related to stomach issues.
Grief, loss and trauma can throw your system of track. It is a common response to how our bodies can be triggered by our emotions.
A Change in Eating Habits
Everyone may experience digestive issues from time to time. Eating the wrong thing can cause momentary distress and, for some allergies can cause chronic illnesses. And when you are grieving it’s not uncommon to change your eating habits.
Sometimes you may not feel hungry. Or maybe you don’t have the energy or desire to prepare a meal. This may cause your eating habits to be erratic which is one of the reasons that contributes to upset stomach issues. But if left unchecked this may lead to other digestive issues such as:
- Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Chronic Constipation
- Gastroenteritis
- Ulcers
Such stomach issues lead thousands of people in the US alone to seek help from their physician every year to manage these digestive issues.
Digestive Issues and Trauma
People who are suffering, or are living with trauma such as grief and loss, often experience the same digestive issues, but their diet isn’t the culprit. Tension in the body, most often, the gut will wreak havoc on the digestive system. And since almost everything starts in the gut it can affect our emotion health too!
Brain and Gut Connection
Our gut and our brain are connected. Gut health includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach and intestines. So when we are nervous, upset, or experiencing stress, such as grief it is understandable that our digestive system is often triggered by the brain and it begins to experience dis-ease.
This can be as mild as feeling sick to our stomach or as intense as cramping. Over time, it can also lead to a host of digestive illnesses.
Stomach Problems and Grief Your Irritable Digestive System
So if you have no medical reason for digestive issues it may mean your body is reacting to trauma. To help manage digestive issues there are a few things you can do to help manage your digestive system. Try these out:
Use Your Breath
Breathing is a powerful way to regulate your mind and body. You can help relax your mind and nervous system allowing your body to calm and settle through deep breathing. You can accomplish this by taking a walk, lying down and meditating, or closing your eyes for a few minutes.
Change the Scenery
One way to disrupt nervousness is to change the scenery. If you are inside, get outside. If you are in the car, stop and take a brisk walk. Breaking up the scenery can help distract the mind and the body’s reaction to traumatic thoughts.
Choose Foods Wisely
Even if you have little appetite or are not ready to cook it is important that when you do eat to choose whole and healthy food. Choosing healthy foods that promote gut health is an extra layer of protection against pain and upset. Eat a fiber rich diet with plenty of hydrating fruits and vegetables for a stable gut.
Concluding Is Grief Causing Stomach Issues
Digestion issues are incredibly common. And it’s possible you are suffering because of what you eat,but it is likely that your stomach issues and grief is related. Recognizing the role trauma plays in our bodies can help reduce many digestive issues you may have thought were medical.
