Gastric Issues: ‘I still eat on time, why do I still get it’

Although irregular meal timings are frequently linked to gastric issues, there are a number of other, less well-known risk factors that may also play a role. Maintaining the best possible gut health requires an understanding of these factors. This article looks at a few things you may not have noticed that could be also affecting your stomach health.

1. Always feeling intense stress
   Did you know that our gut system is considered our second brain? Therefore, if you’re consistently in a stress state, your gut may also suffer. We feel stress when we see something that we think it’s a threat to us. In response to this, our brain goes into a “fight or flight” mode where our body will direct most of its internal energy to process the threat causing less blood flow and energy to our gut system. As a result, this will not only affect our normal digestion function and also potentially damage the production of the protective layer in our gut during the long run. Without the protective layer, our gut becomes overly sensitive and easily inflamed even when our stomach produces normal gastric acid for digestion. Hence, it can be beneficial to learn how to manage stress such as deep breathing and meditation.
   
   
2. Drinking too much alcohol
   You must have heard that alcohol affects the liver function, but in fact, alcohol may also impact the gastrointestinal health in a few possible ways:
   a. Irritate the stomach lining and cause inflammation.
   b. Alter stomach acid production then affecting the stomach’s ability to destroy          bacteria that enters the stomach, which can allow potentially harmful bacteria        to enter the upper small intestine
   c. Affect digestion and delay emptying of stomach, thus, leaving you feeling full and stomach discomfort.
   
   
3. Long term use of painkiller medications such as: NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
   NSAIDs are a class of medications widely prescribed and dispensed by doctors and pharmacists respectively to treat symptoms of pain if needed. Your medical
   professionals will advise you to take these medications only when needed. Taking
   NSAIDs long term may potentially cause gastric problems because while relieving  pain, they may negatively impact the production of the protective lining in your stomach.As a result, again the stomach gets easily inflamed when the stomach acid comes in contact. Long story short, remember to always consult your doctor or pharmacist on the proper use of medicines.

Eating on time is no doubt the most common factor contributing to gastric issues but it is essential to identify these risk factors which are frequently overlooked and know how to manage them the right way. Adopting ways to manage stress, practicing a healthy lifestyle and diet are some of the most important things that come into our minds when we think about maintaining not just our gut health but for a healthy body. If you require help or proper guidance, do feel free to approach your friendly pharmacists at the nearest CARiNG store. 

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