Does your acid reflux get worse when you’re under stress?
The “hidden factor” is the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol comes from the adrenal glands in response to any stress, whether it is an argument with your spouse, a car accident, or food choices that cause blood sugar problems. Whether blood sugar is too high or too low, either one can trigger a stress response. Cortisol serves an important purpose in your fight or flight response which helps you deal with stress. It does things like
- constrict your blood vessels (so you don’t bleed to death if you are injured)
- enhances the “survival” function of your brain
- shuts down the part of your brain that uses logic, and compassion
- suppresses your reproductive system and immune system
These changes are great if you are facing an attack from a bear. The problem is that when you are under smaller, daily stress your body still has this cortisol response. Only now your cortisol level is elevated and stays high for a long time. Elevated cortisol causes:
- High blood pressure
- Weight gain
- Decreased libido
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- And…. damages the stomach lining
Because let’s face it, when your survival is at stake your body does not prioritize a healthy stomach lining.
If you have tried medications and are still having digestive symptoms now is the time to look for the underlying cause.
Click below to take Dr. Rose’s FREE Nutritional Profile Quiz and get an overview of what your nutritional imbalances could be. You’ll get your results immediately.
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