Can you feel a nip in the air? This signals that winter is coming!
Seasonal shift introduces a range of health-related changes, encompassing fever, infections, colds, coughs, flu, and gastrointestinal issues. While managing conditions like flu and cough might be straightforward, gastrointestinal problems can significantly disrupt daily life and routines. This is a very common problem yet most people fail to understand the root cause of it. We spoke to Dr Amarender Singh Puri, Vice Chairman, Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences, Medanta, Gurugram who shared effective tips to manage digestive issues during seasonal change.
How to manage seasonal digestive distress?
Here are effective strategies listed by Dr Puri for managing gastrointestinal problems during the winter season, promoting healthy digestion and well-being.
1. Tackling water contamination and infections
“Waterborne diseases are a leading cause of gastrointestinal troubles during the seasons change. Contaminated water can carry harmful pathogens that lead to stomach infections, diarrhoea, and vomiting,” shares Dr Puri. To address this issue, it's crucial to drink filtered bottled water from reliable sources. Avoid consuming water from dubious outlets and ensure that the water you consume is from a safe and trusted source.
Also Read: Alleviating Stomach Pain Due To Indigestion: Here're 6 Home Remedies You Can Try
2. Prioritising food hygiene
Eating out might be tempting, but during the changing season, it's best to opt for home-cooked meals. Street food may not maintain the necessary hygiene standards, increasing the risk of ingesting contaminated food. By preparing meals at home, one can have better control over the cleanliness and quality of the ingredients you use.
3. Avoiding raw and uncooked foods
While it's enjoyable to indulge in junk food such as sandwiches and burgers, Dr Puri emphasises that exercising caution during the seasonal shift is very crucial. Items like mayonnaise and salad, often present in these foods, can harbour harmful bacteria if not stored or prepared correctly. Opt for freshly cooked meals instead of risking potential digestive issues by consuming raw or uncooked foods from outside sources.
Also Read: Kitchen Hacks To Keep Foods In The Fridge Fresher And Last Longer
Watch this video for tips to digest food faster
4. Ensuring properly washed fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are essential for a balanced diet, but they can also be carriers of pathogens if not cleaned adequately. Dr Puri suggests washing them thoroughly under running water or boiled water to remove any contaminants. This practice can significantly reduce the risk of digestive problems.
5. Homemade juices and beverages
Indulging in freshly squeezed juices is a good dietary practice. However, it's safer to make these beverages at home using properly washed fruits. Avoid juices from street vendors or juice shops, as the hygiene standards might not be up to par, leading to potential health complications.
Also Read: Homemade Energy Drinks For Kids That Are Healthy and Tasty
6. Embracing freshly cooked meals
Opt for freshly cooked meals that are piping hot, suggest Dr Puri. Cooking food at high temperatures can kill off harmful bacteria and pathogens that might cause digestive issues. This practice ensures that you're consuming safe and hygienic meals.
7. Boosting immunity through a healthy lifestyle
Lastly, incorporating an active lifestyle can significantly enhance your immune system's ability to tackle infections. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can contribute to a stronger immune system, reducing the likelihood of falling ill.
If you practise these tips by Dr Puri, you can easily ward off potential digestive issues as the weather shifts. Besides, this would prepare your stomach for the changes in environment and diet.