Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation are inevitable side effects for some people when the cold wind blows in the morning and evening. Irritable bowel syndrome, not just indigestion, is more likely to be the cause of stomach pains in those who have them whenever the seasons change.
Seasonal changes exacerbate symptoms, and temperature is not the only contributing factor. Changes in temperature, less sunlight, and irregular daily routines impact the autonomic nervous system and intestinal sensitivity.
Constant constipation or diarrhea, as well as recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort without structural issues, are symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Surprisingly, the prevalence rate in Korea is between 10 and 20 percent. The issue is that it significantly disrupts daily life and goes beyond just causing discomfort in the abdomen. The autonomic nervous system, which regulates body temperature, becomes unstable during seasonal transitions, especially when the weather is cold in the morning and warm during the day. This, in turn, impacts intestinal motility. Stress resistance typically declines during this time, increasing the sensitivity of symptoms.
The intestines’ erratic reaction is the main source of stress for people with IBS. One day they are fine, but the next day they wake up with diarrhea and a stomachache. Many people are reluctant to go out because they fear circumstances where they will find it challenging to use the restroom, like on public transit, in meetings, or during exams. Social anxiety, avoiding outdoor activities, and even sleep disorders can result from this. Some even claim that “my intestines have ruined my life.”
Psychological stress is frequently linked to irritable bowel syndrome. In actuality, there is a close relationship between the brain and the intestines, and stress alters serotonin secretion in addition to the contraction and relaxation of intestinal muscles. Particularly during the transitional phase, psychological variables like seasonal depression and irregular sleep patterns tend to coexist with temperature fluctuations, making intestinal function more susceptible.
However, intestinal health is influenced by more than just psychological factors. Another crucial element is eating habits. Recently, strategies like the low FODMAP diet, which limit particular carbohydrates, have gained popularity instead of just avoiding greasy and stimulating foods. FODMAPs, which include lactose in dairy products, fructose in onions and garlic, fructans in wheat and barley, galactans in beans, and some artificial sweeteners, are a particular kind of sugar that is poorly absorbed in the intestines and ferments to produce a lot of gas.
These foods don’t pose a significant risk for healthy individuals, but they can result in gas, diarrhea, bloating, and pain in the abdomen for those with IBS. The low-FODMAP diet is not for everyone, and it is advised to start with a minimum of 4 to 8 weeks of restriction before reintroducing certain foods based on symptoms.
Additionally, eating habits to avoid include frequent drinking, instant food, and excessive caffeine consumption. Instant foods are high in fat, salt, and food additives, aggravating intestinal sensitivity, and caffeine can overstimulate intestinal movement. Additionally, alcohol can exacerbate leaky gut syndrome and raise intestinal inflammatory responses.
Regular mealtimes, adequate hydration, and avoiding overeating are also critical for intestinal health. Easy-to-digest foods should be chewed slowly, and foods that are too salty or spicy should be cut back. Recently, many attempts have been made to use probiotics or prebiotic supplements to improve the intestinal environment. It’s crucial to select a probiotic strain that works for your symptoms, though, as different products have different effects.
Irritable bowel syndrome is more than just intestinal issues. It is a complicated illness that necessitates managing stress, daily routines, and dietary patterns. Closer attention is required to prevent symptoms from worsening, particularly during the changing seasons. To keep your intestines comfortable, you need to find a way to protect yourself as the seasons change.
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