The monsoon is pleasant. But it also brings a host of illnesses, infections and allergies. The digestive system is particularly vulnerable during the rainy season and gastric problems such as acidity, bloating, indigestion, gastroenteritis, ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) become common. Hence, it is the urge of the hour to stick to a well-balanced diet, exercise daily, avoid junk food, spicy and fatty foods, and drink water. porridge, say doctors.
“We have always seen an influx of patients with infections of the stomach, intestines and liver during the rainy season. The number of patients suddenly increased due to infections through food and water, ”said Dr Keyur Sheth, gastroenterologist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai.
Dr Sheth mentioned that globally, infectious gastrointestinal diseases and dehydration remain the leading causes of death, responsible for around 450,000 deaths per year. More than 1,000 patients come to the hospital each month for treatment of stomach problems. Eating heavy foods can slow down the digestion process and lead to problems such as bloat, gas, acidity and indigestion. Having to chatter or street juice can cause stomach infection because the water used to make it can contain bacteria. Drinking water from sources other than sealed bottles and water purifiers can also make you sick and you could get diarrhea, Dr Sheth said.
What happens?
Wet weather during the rainy season makes the whole digestive system slow. Consuming food contaminated with bacteria, toxins and parasites is unpleasant for the digestive system. “This can lead to gastroenteritis, which is an infection of the intestine also known as food poisoning or belly bug. Many patients complain of vomiting, nausea, gas, chronic constipation, ulcerative colitis, gastritis and problems with intestinal sensitivity. Gastrointestinal problems are considerably high. Almost, we see about 15 patients every day with irregular sleep and diet, “said Dr Roy Patankar, Director and Gastroenterologist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital.
What to do?
“Avoid carbonated drinks because they reduce enzyme activity and lead to mineral loss by weakening the digestive system. Say no to dairy products like milk because they take a long time to digest and are heavy on the intestines, ”said Dr Sheth.
Here are some essential tips for keeping the digestive system functioning properly during monsoon.
* Avoid eating seafood as the water is contaminated during monsoon and eating fish can cause cholera or diarrhea.
* Do not eat fruit cut by the roadside as it may be contaminated with bacteria.
* Avoid green leafy vegetables as they will be loaded with germs, eat in moderation, opt for lighter, gut-friendly and easy-to-digest foods.
* “Include ginger and lemon in the diet to improve digestion and immunity,” said Dr Sheth.
* Eat lots of probiotics like yogurt or buttermilk because they contain good bacteria that work on our digestive system and support the immune system.
* Drink enough water to flush toxins from the body and improve digestion.
* Eat steamed or boiled vegetables instead of raw, as these will be packed with bacteria and viruses, making your gut worse.
* Do not eat refined sugar as it can cause inflammation and upset the balance of the intestinal flora.
* Say no to fried and fatty foods that cause acidity and bloating.
* Do not lie down immediately after eating, as you may suffer from acidity.
* “Too much stress is bad for your digestive system, so stay stress free and exercise at home every day,” said Dr Patankar.
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