Why Do Some People Get ‘Butterflies’ in Their Stomachs When Nervous?

You’ve probably felt or heard about ‘butterflies’ in your stomach before. Science can explain why this happens!

This sensation can be caused due to the release of dopamine, the ‘feel-good’ chemical, which makes us feel happy when we are doing pleasurable activities.

The norepinephrine hormone and neurotransmitter in the central nervous system also leads to a feeling of butterflies in the stomach. This chemical is released when your body’s ‘fight or flight’ response kicks in when you feel afraid or stressed.

This chemical is also released by the brain when you feel nervous or excited during a romantic moment.

Another explanation for this jittery feeling is the connection between the gut and the brain. Our digestive system also contains its own nervous system which enables you to have ‘gut feeling’, gastrointestinal nervousness or stress, or butterflies in your stomach.

While this feeling may be a sign of stress, nervousness, or excitement, it may also be a signal of a gastrointestinal disorder when accompanied by nausea, pain, or discomfort in the stomach, which may then require medical attention.