Stress Drove My Gut Health Crisis

Stress, deadlines, and gut issues dominated my life for years. At the height of my corporate career, I ran multi-million-pound projects, worked long hours, and tried to make a name for myself. But as I climbed the corporate ladder, my health started to unravel. I was heading towards a gut health crisis.

From Corporate Success to Health Crisis.

In my corporate career, I was on a fast track—managing multi-million-pound projects, leading teams, and pushing myself to deliver more than expected. I was always the first one in and the last one to leave, constantly striving for more. But as my career progressed, my health began to unravel.

I moved around for my career, changing locations every couple of years. Building a social life is challenging enough when you’re constantly on the move, but adding chronic illness into the mix makes it nearly impossible. Even with a solid circle of friends, you never know if you’ll feel well enough to join in. I often felt like I was letting people down, and it was easier to stay in than worry about food or drink triggering my symptoms—or wonder where the nearest toilet might be.

Despite worsening symptoms, I didn’t want to let on how badly I was suffering. I didn’t want to worry others or put them out. When you live with a chronic condition, people’s reactions can vary—some dismiss it, others try to be supportive, and some become overprotective. Most people mean well but often feel helpless, and it’s difficult not to feel like a burden.

I felt like I had to work even harder to prove I was capable. I didn’t speak to anyone about what I was going through and put on a brave face. I downplayed my struggles, keeping it all inside while my body bore the brunt of the stress. On the outside, I seemed to have it all together, but inside, the pressure was mounting—and so were my symptoms.

The Breaking Point

I was fortunate to have amazing bosses who supported me throughout my career; I know others aren’t so lucky. But the truth is, I put a lot of pressure on myself. I constantly pushed to deliver more, take on more responsibility, and prove that I was capable—despite my worsening symptoms.

My digestion became unpredictable—bloating, cramps, and toilet anxiety became my new regular. The stress was overwhelming, and I tried to push through it, thinking I could handle it all.

But it caught up with me.

I had a promotion on the horizon but struggled to get through the day. Meetings, presentations, and business trips became impossible to manage. My symptoms escalated, and soon, I could barely leave the house. I had no choice but to take a break, and for the first time, I was signed off work for a month.

While I was forced to step back, something became clear: I had been living to work. I had no social life, no balance, and my life revolved around my career and material possessions. For years, I had put off my passion for travel, convincing myself I had too much to lose. But now, it all felt meaningless.

So, I made the surprising decision to sell everything I owned and go travel the world. It was the boldest move of my life, and it set me on a path I never could have imagined.

Are You Ready to Take Control of Your Gut Health?

This journey isn’t just about food—it’s about understanding how stress, lifestyle, and mindset contribute to your health. I’m here to guide you, offering the support, tools, and knowledge to help you transform your health and life.

Let’s start with one simple step: Join My Gut Healthy Living Facebook Group to find valuable resources, support, and like-minded people who understand what you’re going through. It’s a space for you to start making real changes to your health, alongside others on a similar journey.