Feeling bloated, flatulently, and lethargic after meals is increasingly common in young people. Many people think this is just a temporary reaction to food, but experts warn that this condition can be related to food intolerance and modern lifestyle.
According to Dr. Akash Chaudhary, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant of Gastroenterology at CARE Hospital (Hyderabad, India), more and more people aged 20-30 come to see a doctor for symptoms of prolonged digestive disorders.
Long working hours, high stress, irregular eating and heavy dependence on processed foods are changing the way the digestive system works, he said.
What is food intolerance?
Dr Chaudhary emphasizes food intolerance is different from food allergy. Allergies are related to the immune system's reaction and often occur right after eating, while food intolerance comes from the body having difficulty digesting certain foods.
Foods that often cause intolerance include milk and dairy products, wheat or gluten, along with some groups of indigestible carbohydrates such as FODMAP. When not digested effectively, these foods ferment in the intestines, causing bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain and a prolonged feeling of heaviness.
Stress causes digestive disorders
Prolonged stress is an important factor in weakening the digestive system. According to Dr. Chaudhary, work pressure and a fast pace of life often make the body in a state of stress, thereby slowing down the digestive process. When the intestines become more sensitive, even small amounts of gas can cause significant discomfort.
The role of the intestinal microflora
Modern lifestyle directly affects the balance of the intestinal microflora. When the microbiome is disordered for a long time, the body can react to even well-tolerated foods, thereby increasing the risk of digestive disorders and food intolerance.
Fast food and processed foods
Foods in modern lifestyle often prioritize convenience over digestion. Popular habits such as eating on-duty, using a lot of processed foods, drinking a lot of coffee and sugary drinks, and eating late at night can all cause irritation of the intestinal lining. This makes the digestive system react more strongly, even with foods that are already beneficial to health.
Lack of sleep increases the risk of digestive disorders
Sleep and digestion are closely linked. Insufficient or irregular sleep increases the stress hormone cortisol, reduces melatonin, a hormone that aids digestion, and slows down emptying the stomach. As a result, the intestines become more sensitive, causing bloating and discomfort after eating more clearly.
How to improve gut health
Many people arbitrarily eliminate food groups without medical instructions, leading to an unbalanced diet. According to experts, simple but effective measures include recording food and symptoms in the dietary log for about two weeks, eating on time, eating slowly, improving sleep and reducing stress.
If symptoms persist, patients should see a gastroenterologist to rule out diseases such as celiac disease or intestinal infections. In many cases, just adjusting your living habits can significantly improve food intolerance.
The information in the article is for reference only, not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate advice that is suitable for your health condition.
