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Ever had a ‘gut feeling’ about something? Turns out, your gut might be doing more thinking than you realise. Recent research has uncovered a fascinating link between gut health and mental well-being, particularly anxiety. Scientists call it the gut-brain axis—a two-way communication system between the digestive system and the brain.
According to the American Psychological Association, about 90% of the body’s serotonin (a key mood-regulating hormone) is produced in the gut. The publication states that when gut bacteria are imbalanced due to poor diet, stress, or antibiotics, serotonin levels can be disrupted, potentially triggering or worsening anxiety.
Dr Emeran Mayer, a gastroenterologist and author of The Mind-Gut Connection, explains that “The gut and brain are in constant dialogue, and an unhappy gut often leads to an anxious mind.”
A 2022 study published in General Psychiatry found that people who consumed probiotic-rich foods (like yoghurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut) had lower anxiety levels than those who didn’t. The study suggests that a diet high in fibre and fermented foods may encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn support better mental health.
The Harvard Medical School also highlights that inflammation in the gut—caused by processed foods and high sugar intake—can send distress signals to the brain, exacerbating anxiety symptoms. Experts recommend focusing on a gut-friendly diet filled with whole foods, prebiotics (found in bananas and garlic), and probiotics to restore balance.
While gut health alone isn’t a cure for anxiety, maintaining a healthy digestive system could be an important step toward a calmer, more balanced mind. So, next time you’re feeling on edge, maybe it’s not just in your head—it could be in your gut too.
Also see: Ever heard of anxiety rash? Discover how panicking can make you itch
