Gut sensitive

A sensitive gut is not really a disease or a disorder or even a condition. Instead it is more of a symptom that is caused by other underlying conditions. The sensitive gut mainly refers to gastrointestinal disorders that have become increasingly common in today’s world.

People of all ages can suffer from problems like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), heartburn, constipation, dyspepsia and excessive gas. Studies indicate that gastrointestinal disorders affect around 35% to 70% of the people at some point or the other. Although both men and women can suffer from the sensitive gut, it has been seen that women are more prone to gastrointestinal problems, as compared to men.

Causes of the sensitive gut

There are some people who are born with gastrointestinal disorders, whereas others develop them as time progresses. Some of the most common factors that can lead to digestive problems are:

Aging
Excessive consumption of alcohol
Hectic lifestyles
Leading a sedentary lifestyle
Smoking
Stress
Unhealthy eating habits
Weak immune system

Other underlying diseases or conditions like cancer, tumors, and so on

Symptoms of the sensitive gut

In some people, a sensitive gut could be a chronic problem, whereas in others it could be a one time occurrence, triggered off by one of the factors mentioned above. Some of the most common symptoms that are associated with stomach related problems are:

Abdominal bloating
Constipation or even diarrhea
Cramps in the stomach
Excessive gas
Heartburn or Acidity
Intense pain
Nausea
Wheezing
Treatment of the sensitive gut

In most cases, the treatment of various gastrointestinal problems is aimed at relieving the symptoms that can cause discomfort to people. There are certain over the counter medications that can relieve the different symptoms. However, the treatment of the condition may vary, based on the cause. In most instances though, doctors recommend certain dietary and lifestyle changes to be made, as they can help reduce the pain and discomfort caused by a sensitive gut.

Dietary recommendations for the sensitive gut

Before making any alterations to the foods that are a part of your diet, it may be best for you to assess your eating habits. Given below are a few tips on healthy eating that are good for most people:

Avoid eating 2 or 3 large meals a day; instead make sure that you eat at least 5 or 6 small meals at frequent intervals, since they are easy to digest.

Eat slowly, making sure that you chew each morsel thoroughly. Gulping down your food for any reason could aggravate gastrointestinal problems and their symptoms.

Drink a lot of water throughout the day, but avoid water about half an hour before and after meal times.

Never lie down immediately after eating; make sure there is a time gap of at least 2 to 3 hours between meals and bedtime
Re-evaluate your cooking methods; people who suffer from a weak stomach should avoid foods that have been fried or cooked in a lot of oil. Instead it is better to opt for grilled, steamed and baked foods.

In case the symptoms of the sensitive gut do not get better in a few weeks, after incorporating the dietary recommendations, then it may be best to consult a doctor.