Stressful Experiences During Childhood Can Affect the Gut

A review of past studies suggests that stress associated with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can negatively affect the gut microbiota, which may explain one pathway by which ACEs can affect one’s long-term health. Examples of ACEs include abuse (physical, sexual, emotional); neglect (physical, emotional); witnessing domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental illness in the household; and the loss of a parent (separation, divorce, incarceration, death). Behavioral Brain Research, July 2021