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Research suggests that digestive problems are closely linked to stress and anxiety. Moreover, women are most likely to suffer from gastrointestinal problems as compared to men, leaving them more susceptible to stress and even depression

A normal and properly functioning digestive tract harbor millions of bacteria that are constantly helping our bodies fight infection and convert the food we eat into energy. However, this balance can be disrupted by improper diet and the intake of prescribed drugs.

A diet that consists of refined carbohydrates and foods that contain high sugar disrupts the natural balance existing between good and bad bacteria. The body is prone to infection when there is too much bad bacteria and may require treatment with antibiotics.

Antibiotics kill the good bacteria, which  have been known to decrease stress-induced digestive problems when taken in a probiotic formula. A comprehensive study was conducted on the effects of the lactobacillus helveticus and Bifido bacterium longum, which have significantly reduced anxiety-like behavior among rats as reported in Medical Daily.

A recent study also confirmed the close ties between a leaky gut and depression. A leaky gut occurs when the stomach and intestinal walls allow toxic bacteria to enter into the bloodstream. The study further discovered that abnormal amounts of trace amines and toxins in the blood play tricks on the brain, prompting the body to feel tired, stressed or depressed.

Women suffer more than men as discovered in a research conducted by consumer analysts Mintel. The research indicates that 88 percent of women suffer from gastrointestinal complaints as compared to 83 percent of men. However, 30 percent of the respondents blame the upset on stress as reported in the Daily Mail.

Women are more susceptible because of social and cultural factors at play. Women are the natural caregivers, but modern society has opened up various jobs to women. However, these working women still have to care for the kids and keep the house. Moreover, they are more exposed to bacteria contracted from young children.