Stress-linked disruption of gut–brain axis may drive overeating, studies find

New research suggests that life stress can disturb communication between the gut and the brain, increasing cravings for and consumption of high‑calorie foods and pointing to new avenues for obesity prevention and treatment.

Two papers published today examined how social and biological factors shape eating behaviour. The first study analysed the impact of social determinants such as income, education and access to healthcare alongside biological aspects, and found that stress arising from adverse life circumstances can disrupt the brain–gut–microbiome balance. The researchers reported that those disruptions appear to alter mood, decision‑making and hunger signals, which in turn increase the likelihood of craving and consuming calorie‑dense foods.

The second paper screened adults with gut–brain disorders and found that more than one‑third tested positive for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, a condition in which people avoid certain foods, limit the amount they eat, or both. Health authorities such as the NHS define avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder — commonly referred to by the acronym ARFID — in these terms and emphasise the disorder’s potential to cause significant nutritional and psychosocial problems.

Authors of the studies and clinicians quoted in coverage of the research said the findings underline how social stressors and biological processes can interact to shape eating patterns, and they are calling for routine screening for avoidant/restrictive eating and greater integration of nutritional care into services for people with gut‑brain disorders. Such measures, proponents argue, could enable earlier identification of disordered eating and more coordinated interventions that address both psychological and physiological contributors to unhealthy eating.

Public health experts said the work adds to a growing body of evidence that social determinants of health — including socioeconomic status and access to care — influence not only long‑term disease risk but also immediate behaviours that drive energy intake. By identifying specific pathways through which stress alters appetite regulation and food choice, researchers say the studies create opportunities to develop targeted prevention strategies and therapeutic approaches that aim to restore normal gut–brain signaling.

The papers do not, however, provide details on specific clinical interventions or approved treatments derived from the findings. Researchers and clinicians who have reviewed the studies called for further work to confirm the mechanisms involved and to test whether interventions that reduce life stress or restore gut–brain balance can meaningfully reduce overeating and obesity risk.

Health services and policy experts said the findings strengthen the case for integrating social care, mental health support and nutritional services, particularly for populations facing economic and educational disadvantage. They added that routine screening for avoidant/restrictive eating alongside holistic nutritional assessment could help tailor care for people with gut–brain disorders and prevent complications related to both under‑ and over‑consumption of food.