When it comes to stress, we all have different ways that we experience it. While some of us may experience more stress than others, it’s important to recognize the stressors in our life and how to deal with it. We can certainly make certain lifestyle changes to help reduce stress levels, but we also need to recognize the importance of taking care of the gut during times of stress, as poor gut health can affect the rest of the body. We’re here to share the importance of gut health during times of stress, how bone broth helps to reduce stress levels and our stress relief sipping tips. 

The importance of gut-health during times of stress

Did you know that your brain and gastrointestinal (GI) system are connected? Yes it’s true, the intimate connection between the brain and GI system is the main reason why you may have an upset stomach before a big job interview or feel sick during times of stress. 

The gut is made up of the small and large intestine, which is responsible for nutrient absorption and production. It is home to the immune system and microbiome and assists in the interaction with the central nervous system. When the gut is healthy, the gut lining is fully intact and functioning properly, allowing all the ‘good bacteria’ to thrive and enhance nutrient absorption. On the other hand, when the gut is in poor health (due to stress, anxiety and/or depression), this can cause a leaky gut. A leaky gut means that all the bacteria and toxins enter the intestinal wall, putting your body at risk for nutrient deficiency, food sensitivities and poor health overall. During times of stress, the stress can alter gut health and damage the gut tissue by reducing the production of glutamine in the body, which then sends panic signals throughout the nervous system. Cortisol is then released, which further weakens the glutamine levels and can cause muscle aches, fatigue and potential risk of illnesses. 

In order to help heal the gut during times of stress, it is important to recognize the source of the stress and take the necessary steps to help heal the gut by reducing stress levels, getting enough sleep and eating properly.

How bone broth helps heal the gut to glow from the inside out

 While it is nearly impossible to avoid stress, we have found that by adding bone broth to our daily routine, it has helped to reduce stress levels and improve gut health to glow! Our broth concentrates are rich in glutamine, an amino acid that is essential for maintaining intestinal function, making it an incredible gut-healing beverage. The glutamine, along with all the collagen found in our broths, help improve gut health and digestion, making it easier to break down food and absorb nutrients. Our broths also contain arginine and glycine, two amino acids that may help to reduce inflammation in the body, allowing you to feel better. Glycine also helps support the production of neurotransmitters that help reduce the anxiety response in the body, which protects your gut from the impact of stress as well as your body’s overall response to stress.  

Along with these gut-healing powers, our broth concentrates make an ideal beverage that helps to promote whole-body beauty from the inside out by promoting a healthy immunity, glowing skin and strong nails. As you can see, there is nothing a cup full of gut-healing goodness can’t help fix! 

Our stress-relief sipping tips

Looking for a few ways to slowly-sip your stress away?

Read a book

There’s just something so relaxing about cuddling up on the couch with a blanket, a warm cup of our broth concentrates and a good book to help heal the mind, body and soul.

Exercise

Daily movement is so important - not only for your overall health and wellness, but for your stress levels, too. By moving your body daily (whether that be through a HIIT class, biking, or a casual stroll in the neighborhood), the blood flow helps release endorphins that can help reduce stress levels and improve your mood. 

Bone broth makes an excellent post-recovery workout beverage that helps refuel the body to bounce back faster! 

Take a bubble bath

Sometimes, the best cure is to take a nice warm bubble bath, while listening to some relaxing music and sipping bone broth. 

Meditate

Life can be so busy at times, we may tend to forget to take time to reflect and be present in the moment. From yoga to tai chi, meditation and pilates, there are a number of ways to create mindfulness to help reduce stress levels and put the mind at ease. 

Spend time with friends and family

Sometimes, the best cure is to spend time with the ones you love. Take the time to call or visit your loved ones and talk to them about what’s going on. 

Journal

Grab a pen and paper and start writing it out. Be sure to include things you are grateful for to help switch your perspective and focus on the positives in your life, too! 

Remember, during times of stress, take a moment to breathe, step away, do something you love, and sip on our broth concentrates to help heal your body from within!

Sources: 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connection 

https://ssihi.uci.edu/tip/gut-health-during-times-of-stress/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/stress-and-the-sensitive-gut