Alexandra Burke’s powerful stage performances hid a decade long struggle with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and anxiety.

Alexandra’s gut story

Alexandra Burke joins Susannah Constantine and Dr Chris George on our Gut Diaries sofa to speak about how the show must go on despite living with IBS and anxiety as a performer.   

Having spent years experiencing symptoms such as bloating and stomach pain in her early twenties, Alexandra found herself adapting her diet, avoiding eating anything that would trigger those symptoms before performing. 

Her IBS induced more stress and anxiety, which in return heightened her gut condition and left her feeling out of her depth. After seeking help from her doctor, she’s started sharing her story more openly to help encourage other women not to suffer in silence.  

Thank you, Alexandra, for sharing your gut story with us. 

Over to Dr Chris to explain the link between the gut and the brain 

“We know that there’s something called the gut-brain axis. The relationship isn't a one-way street, our gut sends signals to our brain and vice versa.  

There are different ways it’s connected, the first being physically via the vagus nerve which helps to relax and has a calming influence. In addition to that you have your gut microbiome which produces chemicals and neurotransmitters including serotonin, which is in your brain but actually 95% of it is created in your gut.” 

Thank you, Dr Chris.

If you have any concerns about the issues discussed here, please contact your GP for further advice and support.

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