If You Feel Anxious When You Can't Digest Well, You May Have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Hello
I am Director Choi Jang-hyuk of Dongjedang Korean Medicine Clinic.
Today, let's take a look at digestive disorders caused by obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is frequently seen in Korean medicine clinics.
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When you can't digest well, do you feel inexplicably anxious and uncomfortable?
From my clinical experience, this is not simple indigestion.
When it repeats, it can be deeply connected to obsessive anxiety.
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The brain and intestines are very deeply connected to each other.
Intestinal discomfort can stimulate anxiety in the brain.
Conversely, anxiety can also interfere with digestion.

✅ Action


These are three immediate actions I recommend.
I believe it is important for both the intestines and mind to be at ease.
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1️⃣ Walk lightly for 30 minutes every day.
Rain or snow, always walk at a consistent time with consistent intensity.
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2️⃣ Chew thoroughly and eat slowly during meals.
Although it may seem obvious and trivial,
the act of chewing itself is effective in promoting digestive enzyme secretion and providing a sense of stability.
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3️⃣ Practice abdominal breathing for 5 minutes before going to bed.
It relaxes the intestines and brain, helping with sound sleep.

🚨 Warning


If these symptoms continue,
Is it a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder? Or a sign of indigestion?
If the following symptoms persist, pay close attention.
These are the major warning signs I have observed in clinical practice.
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✔ Avoidance of specific foods
Avoids specific foods extremely out of fear of poor digestion.
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✔ Hypersensitive reaction to abdominal sounds
Reacts excessively sensitively to sounds from the abdomen.
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✔ Obsessive repetitive behavior
Repeats specific behaviors whenever experiencing abdominal discomfort.

🧠 The Why


Why do digestion and anxiety fuel each other?
The intestines and brain are tightly connected like a highway.
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The intestines have so many nerve cells that they are called the "second brain."
When you feel anxious, the brain sends signals to the intestines.
These signals impair the digestive function of the stomach and intestines.
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Conversely, when the intestines are uncomfortable, inflammatory substances are transmitted to the brain.
This creates a vicious cycle that further increases anxiety.
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A female patient in her 40s that I treated had a similar situation.
Simple indigestion led to anxiety about "could this be a serious illness?"
Excessive worry was further deteriorating her intestinal function.
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It is most important to manage both the intestines and mind together.

🔚 Closing
Don't experience indigestion and anxiety alone. Indigestion and anxiety are signals sent by your body and mind.
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As I mentioned, the intestines and brain are tightly connected.
Problems on one side will definitely affect the other.
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Small changes in daily habits can have great effects.
From now on, I hope you will care for both your intestines and mind together.
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If it's too difficult, please visit a Korean medicine clinic anytime.
Speaking with me is also a good approach.
I always support your health.
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✍️ Written and reviewed by Director Choi Jang-hyuk of Dongjedang Korean Medicine Clinic