Stress

Stress affects your gut in a number of ways: it hinders the production of enzymes and absorption of nutrients, and reduces oxygen levels and blood flow. Plus, it alters your brain-gut connection (via the vagus nerve), and can impact the functioning of your entire GI tract, including the beneficial bacterial strains in your gastrointestinal tract.Note: Processed, refined foods Processed foods, including pasteurized milk, can harm the beneficial probiotic strains in your gut. Eating a typical Western diet high in carbs and processed foods produces profoundly different gut bacteria than a diet high in vegetables and fiber.