Relationship between stress, diet, and gut microbiota: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

The complex interaction of food habits, stress levels, and gut microbiota is instrumental in shaping global human well-being. Lifestyle indicators like diet, stress, and exercise have immense potential to drive gut health but are usually plagued by the divide between knowledge and action.

Methodlogy

This research compared lifestyle variables and awareness of gut health in 51 participants on a standardized questionnaire. It analyzed variables such as frequency of meals, intake of processed foods, intake of dietary fiber and probiotics, history of digestive diseases, perceived influence of stress, and knowledge of the gut–brain axis.

Results

Results indicated that 69.05% of the participants ate only 1-2 meals a day, and 71.43% had moderate consumption (1-2 times per week) of fast or processed foods. A concerning fact is that only 7.14% ate probiotic foods daily, and only 28.57% had high-fiber foods in their daily diet. Gastrointestinal problems were prevalent, with 56.41% having issues and 51.28% having occasional problems (1-2 times per week). In addition, 66.67% thought that stress influences their digestion, and 74.36% experienced changes in diet influencing their gut. Just 13.16% were physically active daily, and 44.74% slept for less than six hours daily, both are known to influence the gut microbiome. While 76.32% understood the diet–stress–microbiota connection, just 57.89% were of the view that dietary modifications can help manage stress.

Conclusion

The research points to an important gap between knowledge and practical behaviors concerning gut health and stress management. There is a need for public health programs to enhance sustainable lifestyle and dietary changes to improve microbial diversity, digestive well-being, and mental health.