HomeAnswersFamily Physicianmental healthHow are gut health and depression related to each other?

What is the relation between gut health and depression?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Mashfika N Alam

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At February 25, 2018
Reviewed AtFebruary 9, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

A lot has been said lately about the relationship between gut health and depression. How can I take care of my gut in order to take care of my head?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

There is definitely a positive relationship between the two and there is a medical explanation for that. Mental health issues like depression and anxiety tend to cause gut problems like hyperacidity, loss of appetite, nausea, constipation, and even mild diarrhea. Vice versa, gut problems like chronic diarrhea or loss of appetite with or without other symptoms may cause symptoms of anxiety depression, social anxiety, etc.

In order to keep a healthy mind, the following measures can be taken to ensure a healthy gut. Drinking plenty of water, mainly warm water. Eating fiber and green vegetables to avoid constipation. Eating meat in measured amounts. Avoiding overeating and eating on time. All these measures and many more can give your gut and whole body good shape which will, in turn, add to your self-confidence, stamina, feeling good about yourself, etc. Someone who has a happy healthy gut can prove to lead a productive life thus contributing to good self-esteem and confidence. Hence mental health symptoms like various types of anxiety or depression can be kept at bay.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Mashfika N Alam

Dr. Mashfika N Alam

General Practitioner

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

mental healthhealthy life

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Family Physician

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy