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Relationship between stress, diet, and gut microbiota: a cross-sectional study
The complex interaction of food habits, stress levels, and gut microbiota is instrumental in shaping global human well-being. Lifestyle indicators such as diet, stress, and exercise have immense potential to drive gut health but are often hindered by the gap between knowledge and action. This research involved a comparative analysis of lifestyle variables and awareness of gut health among 51 participants using a standardized questionnaire. Key variables examined included meal frequency, intake of processed foods, dietary fiber and probiotic consumption, history of digestive diseases, perceived influence of stress on the gut, and understanding of the gut–brain axis. Results indicated that 69.05% of participants consumed only 1-2 meals daily, while 71.43% reported moderate consumption (1-2 times per week) of fast or processed foods. Alarmingly, only 7.14% of individuals consumed probiotic foods daily, and only 28.57% included high-fiber foods in their daily diets. Gastrointestinal issues were prevalent, with 56.41% experiencing problems and 51.28% encountering occasional issues (1-2 times per week). Furthermore, 66.67% acknowledged that stress affects their digestion, and 74.36% noted that dietary changes influenced their gut health. Physical activity was limited, with only 13.16% engaging in daily exercise, and 44.74% reported sleeping less than six hours each night, both of which are known to affect the gut microbiome. While 76.32% recognized the connection between diet, stress, and microbiota, only 57.89% believed that dietary modifications could aid in stress management. This research highlights a significant disconnect between knowledge and practical behaviors regarding gut health and stress management, underscoring the need for public health initiatives that promote sustainable lifestyle and dietary changes to enhance microbial diversity, digestive well-being, and mental health. [NPID: Stress, diet, gut health, gap, lifestyle, probiotic, stress management, public health]
Year: 2025
