Stomach complaints caused by anxiety are relatively common. In order to treat nervous stomach complaints and digestive problems caused by anxiety, you should first and foremost reduce the anxiety disorder. However, you can also alleviate the symptoms and treat the stomach and intestines. Here are some ways you can alleviate your symptoms:
Breathing exercises for stomach problems caused by anxiety and nervousness
Stomach problems are often caused by swallowing air or hyperventilation. There are relaxing breathing exercises to reduce these habits. On the one hand, the breathing exercises prevent the swallowing of air and thus the build-up of air in the stomach and calm the nerves. Breathing exercises therefore treat the symptoms and the cause at the same time.
Healthy diet that is gentle on the stomach
Even if anxiety disorders affect your stomach regardless of what you eat, you should avoid foods that are difficult to digest. Otherwise the symptoms will worsen along with the anxiety.
Instead of eating three large meals a day, you should eat smaller portions more often during the day so as not to overload your stomach. Start the day with a glass of still water on an empty stomach. You should also avoid coffee and alcohol.
Physical exercise against nervous stomach complaints
Heavy physical exertion increases the production of stomach acid and can therefore exacerbate the symptoms. Regular and less intense exercise, on the other hand, helps to keep anxiety under control and creates hormonal balance. This includes swimming, cycling and walking or jogging in particular. Regular, light to moderate exercise is very healthy for the body and the psyche.
Medication and household remedies for stomach problems
Over-the-counter medications and household remedies can help with the symptoms. Activated charcoal tablets have proved very effective against indigestion. Ginger, camomile, fennel and peppermint also help. These are available in the form of tea infusions, tablets or powder.
If the anxiety and the associated stomach problems don't get better, you should definitely see a doctor. However, it is also important that you concentrate on treating the anxiety disorder and not just the stomach problems.
Treatment of nervous stomach complaints: Overview
There are several ways to treat stomach problems caused by anxiety:
Relaxation techniquesPractising deep breathing exercises, meditation or yoga can help to reduce stress and alleviate stomach problems.
Sporting activitiesRegular physical activity has been shown to improve anxiety symptoms and can also help to alleviate stomach problems.
Healthy nutritiong: A balanced diet that is low in sugar and caffeine and high in fibre can help reduce anxiety symptoms and relieve stomach pain.
Avoid foods that cause stomach problemsIdentify all foods that aggravate stomach problems and avoid them.
Non-prescription medicinesAcid-binding medication can provide temporary relief from stomach discomfort caused by anxiety.
Talk therapyTalking to a psychologist can help to manage anxiety symptoms and alleviate the associated stomach discomfort.
It is important to see a doctor if the stomach pain is severe or persistent, as this may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.
