Post by : Saif Rahman

Starting the day in haste can affect your gut health without you even knowing it. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist from AIIMS with 25 years of expertise, highlights several daily morning habits that could negatively impact digestion. His recent insights share seven prevalent practices that many engage in, which may quietly upset the stomach.

According to Dr. Sethi, mornings should set the tone for a tranquil and healthy day. However, actions like rushing, skipping meals, or making poor dietary choices can disturb digestive health, elevate acid levels, and hinder overall digestion.

One key mistake he notes is fasting through breakfast. After hours of sleep, the stomach craves nourishment. Bypassing breakfast can lead to acid buildup and sluggish digestion. He recommends meals rich in protein and fiber to initiate the day, such as eggs paired with spinach, oats accompanied by nuts, or yogurt mixed with berries. These choices promote balanced blood sugar levels, enhance digestion, and nourish beneficial gut bacteria.

Another damaging morning habit is consuming black coffee right after waking up. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach boosts both acid and cortisol levels, which may irritate the stomach lining. Dr. Sethi suggests hydrating with water first and enjoying a light snack before coffee. This approach helps in managing caffeine effects and stabilizing energy.

Moreover, many start their day with sugary items or cereals. While convenient and palatable, these foods can lead to rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, resulting in hunger pangs, bloating, and impaired digestion. Opting for fiber-rich, whole foods is a better alternative.

Dr. Sethi also points out that a rushed morning routine can exacerbate digestive issues. When in haste, it's common to chew insufficiently, neglect hydration, or eat while stressed, all of which can confuse the digestive system and create discomfort.

Neglecting hydration is another common error. The body loses moisture overnight, and starting the day without sufficient water intake can slow digestion and lead to constipation. Dr. Sethi recommends drinking a glass of water each morning to wake up the digestive system.

Many also indulge in heavy or oily meals early on, which can be taxing on digestion. Light, balanced breakfasts facilitate smoother digestion and maintain energy levels.

Lastly, he highlights that physical activity in the morning plays a crucial role in digestion. Engaging in light stretches or a brief walk can enhance gut mobility and alleviate bloating.

Dr. Sethi's advice is straightforward: minor adjustments in morning habits can lead to significant benefits. Staying hydrated, consuming a hearty breakfast, avoiding strong coffee on an empty stomach, and taking time to breathe can keep the digestive system functioning effectively. He encourages everyone to adopt mindful practices for better gut health throughout the day.

#Health #Wellness