Breaking the Gut-Stress Cycle

Ever feel tired, foggy, or bloated — even when you're trying to take care of yourself?

Or maybe you're eating better, moving more, doing most of the “right” things…

But still not feeling like yourself?

Here’s something a lot of wellness-minded folks don’t realize:

Your gut and your immune system are in constant communication.

In fact, around 70% of your immune system lives in your gut!

Your gut isn’t just digesting food… it’s also helping your body manage stress, regulate energy, and defend against illness.

But here’s the catch:

When you’re stressed (even thejust-getting-through-the-day, back-to-back-meetings kind of stress)...

Your body releases hormones that can weaken your gut lining over time…

Which can make your gut barrier a little more “leaky” than it should be. 

That means bits of undigested food, toxins, or bacteria that are supposed to stay in your gut might sneak into your bloodstream, and your immune system sounds the alarm.

➡️ Which triggers inflammation.
➡️ Which can leave you feeling even more bloated, tired, or anxious than before.
➡️ And yep, that can loop right back into more stress.

This is called the gut-inflammation loop.

And it’s a lot more common than you think.

But here’s the good news:

You CAN interrupt the cycle.

Here are a few simple ways to support your gut and calm inflammation:

• Slow down before meals — take a few deep breaths to help your body shift into rest + digest mode
  
  
• Add gut-friendly foods like fermented veggies, Greek yogurt, or chia seeds
  
  
• Drink more water — hydration helps keep your gut lining strong

You don’t have to (and probably shouldn’t!) overhaul your entire life overnight.

Instead, focus on small, gradual changes that help you feel better.

What’s good for your gut is good for your mood, metabolism, and mental clarity, too.