Does the weather affect your digestive system? Everything you need to know for prevention and treatment.

Climate change and weather fluctuations significantly impact human health, especially the health of the digestive system. With changing seasons and varying temperatures, many health symptoms appear that are directly related to the weather, such as colds in winter, worsening allergy symptoms in spring, or increased joint pain with decreasing temperatures. But what many may not realize is that the digestive system is often the first to be affected by these weather fluctuations.

According to Dr. Salam Al-Saadi, Consultant of Obesity Surgery and Robotic Surgery at Zulekha Hospital, the digestive system is considered one of the most sensitive systems in the body to external changes, including weather fluctuations. Dr. Al-Saadi explains that these changes can affect bowel movements, the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, and even the secretion of digestive enzymes.

Causes of Weather-Related Digestive System Disorders

Digestive disorders occur due to changes in the body's immunity and susceptibility to diseases with the changing of seasons.

According to Dr. Salam Al-Saadi, heat can affect your stomach and make you susceptible to many problems, such as dehydration resulting from high temperatures, which affects the functions of the stomach and intestines by reducing blood flow to them. You may experience symptoms such as stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

Foodborne illnesses, such as food poisoning, are diseases transmitted through eating or drinking certain foods or beverages. The sources are bacteria or other hazardous substances in food or drink. Several factors can increase the risk of food poisoning. These include:

1. Bacterial Growth Your gut becomes more susceptible to bacteria in high temperatures. A study published in the journal Infection found that heat waves can increase the risk of bacterial infection by 34%. This generally occurs when food becomes contaminated with microorganisms if it is not stored properly.

2. Improper Food Handling
Leaving any food out for an extended period in hot weather can increase the likelihood of contamination, and bacteria may develop if you do not refrigerate perishable foods such as dairy products, meat, or shellfish.

3. Dehydration
When the temperature is very high, dehydration may occur. This can weaken the body's defense system, making it difficult to fight infection, including food poisoning.

Ways to Prevent Digestive System Problems Related to Weather Changes

For prevention, Dr. Salam Al-Saadi emphasizes the need to adhere to the following instructions:

1. Eat small, frequent meals:
   It is recommended to eat small meals throughout the day instead of large meals, which helps avoid indigestion.
2. Eating Slowly:
   Eating slowly and chewing food well reduces bloating and indigestion. Also, dividing food into small pieces helps with better digestion.
3. Regular Exercise:
   Exercising for 20 minutes daily boosts the body's immunity and reduces stress, which helps prevent diseases associated with weather changes.
4. Storing Food Properly:
   Food should be stored at appropriate temperatures to avoid bacterial growth, especially in hot weather. It is also advisable not to leave food outside the refrigerator for more than two hours.
5. Avoid Fried and Acidic Foods:
   Fatty and fried foods, as well as carbonated drinks and acidic foods, can cause heartburn and bloating.
6. Drinking enough fluids:
   Staying hydrated by drinking water regularly prevents dehydration and constipation, especially during periods of weather fluctuations.
7. Washing Hands Thoroughly:
   Washing hands regularly helps reduce the spread of germs, especially during periods of changing weather.
8. Eat immune-boosting foods:
   Such as garlic, yogurt, sweet peppers, leafy greens, and berries, which help strengthen the immune system.

Tips for Dealing with Digestive Disorders Related to Weather Changes

• Consume stomach-soothing herbs:
  Such as ginger, fennel, or chamomile tea, which help soothe the digestive system.

Drinking Clear Liquids:
When experiencing diarrhea, it is recommended to drink clear liquids in small amounts and avoid solid foods for a while.

Avoid Irritants:
Such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods that may increase stomach upset.

Weather fluctuations and changing seasons can negatively affect the health of the digestive system, but by following the appropriate preventive and therapeutic advice, these problems can be avoided or their symptoms alleviated. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult Dr. Salam Al-Saadi, Consultant in Obesity Surgery and Robotic Surgery at Thoe View Hospital, to obtain appropriate treatment.

According to Dr. Al-Saadi, prevention plays a key role in maintaining the health of the digestive system, especially during periods of weather fluctuations. He also emphasizes the importance of following a balanced diet and exercising regularly to strengthen the immune system and improve overall health.

For inquiries, you can contact Dr. Salaam Al-Sadi through his Instagram page or book an appointment at The View Hospital.

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