Stress - it's something we've all experienced at one point or another.
With 66% of Europeans reporting that they feel stressed regularly, it will come as no surprise that stress is something that we all experience from time to time.
While stress is an important physiological mechanism that can improve alertness and performance, chronic stress can be detrimental and if left unattended can contribute to many health problems, especially in our digestive system.
Are you searching for supplements to effectively manage stress and its symptoms?
Let's first understand the stress mechanisms in our bodies.
Stress triggers a complex series of physiological and psychological responses in the body, collectively known as the stress response. The stress response involves the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which results in the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones affect various bodily functions, including blood pressure, heart rate, and immune function. Additionally, stress can activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body to respond to perceived threats. Chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of these systems, contributing to the development of various health problems, including digestive issues.
How does stress impact your digestion (and vice-versa): understanding the Gut-Brain Axis. The link between stress and digestion is largely mediated through the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis is a two-way communication pathway between the central nervous system (the brain) and the enteric nervous system (the gut nervous system). This means that the gut sends signals to the brain, just like the brain sends signals to the gut. This communication is important for many bodily functions, including digestion, immunity, and mood regulation. As we said, when you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which can affect the normal functioning of the gut-brain axis. This can upset digestion in several ways. For example, cortisol can decrease the production of stomach acid, which can cause digestion problems. Second, stress can affect intestinal motility, slowing down or speeding up digestion.
Finally, stress can alter the composition of the gut microbiota, which can also affect digestion and cause problems such as bloating or constipation. The gut microbiota, which is made up of billions of beneficial bacteria, has an important role in regulating the gut-brain axis. It plays an essential role in the development and functioning of the immune system, as well as in the regulation of metabolism and the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Additionally, the microbiota can help strengthen the gut barrier and regulate inflammation in the gut, which can improve digestion and reduce digestive symptoms associated with stress.
So what can be done to effectively manage stress & its symptoms? Taking into account the crucial role played by the gut-brain axis is vital in maintaining both mental and physical well-being. To effectively manage stress and its symptoms, it is advised to seek a supplement that offers a synergistic blend of ingredients that will both help to relax and support the gut microbiota.
We’ve done the research and here are top tips and criteria to look out for and the best supplements to help you better manage your stress and digestion.
Here are some well-known natural plant ingredients for stress and relaxation:
Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb has been shown to help the body cope with stress and improve overall well-being.
Chamomile: This herb has been used for centuries to help promote relaxation and calm the mind.
Lavender: The scent of lavender has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Passionflower: This herb is known for its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Lemon balm: This herb has a calming effect on the nervous system and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It can be taken as a supplement or brewed into a tea.
There are several vitamins and minerals that are known for their benefits in promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels:
Magnesium: Magnesium naturally dampens our stress response by offsetting the hyperactivation of a body mechanism called the HPA axis. However, chronic stress reduces magnesium levels and modern diets tend to be poor in magnesium, so it is highly advised as supplement in case of stress.
Vitamins B : important for energy production and are also involved in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood.
Vitamin D: This vitamin plays a role in regulating mood
Zinc: This mineral is important for the immune system and has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Have you ever heard of psychobiotics?
They are a new and innovative concept that is becoming more and more popular. Psychobiotics are a type of probiotics that are specially formulated to help support both the gut and the brain. They contain specific strains of bacteria that have been shown to have a positive impact on mood, anxiety, and stress levels. Our investigation into the science of psychobiotics has revealed some fascinating findings.
The idea behind psychobiotics is that by promoting a healthy gut microbiome, you can help support overall mental and emotional well-being. Some examples of psychobiotic strains include Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus helveticus, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
OUR TOP 5 SUPPLEMENTS FOR STRESS & DIGESTION
We've looked at factors such as quality of the ingredients, level of innovation of the formulation, bioavailability, dosage regimen and prices to help you make an informed decision when choosing an anti-stress supplement.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA | | |
FORMULATION - how innovative and unique is the formula | ACTION ON BOTH STRESS AND DIGESTION- is there any action on the gut-brain axis | SCIENCE - is there relevant clinical data to justify the formulation? Is it innovative? |
DOSING - what form of ingredients has been used and if in enough quantity to claim the efficacy | PRICE | |
OUR TOP 5 STRESS SUPPLEMENT
WHY WE LIKE IT:
First specific supplement to target the gut-brain axis to support both relaxation and digestive comfort
Most complete formulation on the market, with high-quality ingredients like the superior form of bioavailable magnesium and the choice for Ashwagandha (KSM66®) premium extract, with also vitamins B6 and D
Formulated by scientists
Unique blend of proven probiotic strains called 'psychobiotics' highly studied and known for their ability to help cope with the physical (including gastrointestinal) and the psychological aspects of stress (Lactobacillus helveticus IQB 0211, Lactobacillus plantarum IQB 8386, Lactobacillus rhamnosus IQB 2911 and Bifidobacterium longum IQB 2901)
NOTE: the price is high but this is a complete and unique formulation, helping both coping with stress and digestion with high customer satisfaction according to the reviews
2. METIS ANTI-STRESS
WHY WE LIKE IT:
Contains 3 natural components to combat stress and magnesium en vitamine B12
Uses Ashwagandha (KSM-66®) which is the most researched one.
Contains spore biotics Lactobacillus subtilis and Lactobacillus coagulans
NOTE: Contains spore biotics but no reference to potential benefits on digestion
3. NU MIND STRESS SUPPORT
WHY WE LIKE IT:
Complete proposal with 23 ingredients
6 daily capsules, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, adaptogenic herbs & calming flower remedies.
Contains probiotics strains
NOTE: These are actually 6 daily capsules, which can be inconvenient to integrate into your daily routine.
4. PHYSALIS NO STRESS
WHY WE LIKE IT:
Contains magnesium, key B-vitamins
Uses Ashwagandha (KSM-66®) which is the most researched one and also Lemon balm extract
Contains Lactium®, a natural product derived from milk and substantiated by scientific studies.
Uses ingredients backed up by science eg an extract of Scutellaira baicalensis (Scutell’up®),
Clean label
NOTE: Supplemented with 325mg of taurine, which may be considered by some people as controversial
WHY WE LIKE IT:
Contains pantothenic acid that plays a role in normal production of neurotransmitters
Contains Siberian ginseng and vitamin B5 to contribute to more mental and physical energy
NOTE: A rather classic combination of ingredients for stress, not very innovative
Disclaimer
This article provides general information about health and related subjects. The information provided in this blog is not intended as medical advice and does not substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment specific to you as an individual.
If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your healthcare provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
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