Tag:

Gastroenterologist

AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist says ‘air frying does not make your food automatically healthy’; debunks 7 myths
Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist says ‘air frying does not make your food automatically healthy’; debunks 7 myths

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Air fryers have become a staple in modern kitchens, often hailed as the ultimate healthy cooking alternative. Many people believe that simply switching from deep-frying to air frying automatically makes their meals guilt-free. However, it’s not the gadget but how you use it that determines how healthy your food actually is. From the choice of oil to the kind of food you put in, every detail matters when it comes to maintaining gut health.

Air fryer cooking can be a game changer for your gut.(Image generated via Google Gemini)

Also Read | Fortis Vasant Kunj gastroenterologist warns how overindulging in sweets speeds your ageing, causes wrinkles

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, is breaking down seven myths about using air fryers. In an Instagram post shared on October 18, the gastroenterologist debunks popular misconceptions about air fryer cooking, highlighting that air fryers can be a gut-friendly game-changer but only when used the right way.

Air frying is automatically healthy

Dr Sethi explains that simply using an air fryer doesn’t make your food automatically healthy – it’s the ingredients and cooking methods that truly matter. He explains, “Air frying cuts oil, yes. But if you’re still using ultra-processed frozen snacks or inflammatory refined seed oils, you’re not doing your gut any favours.”

You don’t need oil at all

The gastroenterologist recommends using healthy oils like avocado oil or ghee, which actually help absorb nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K. He suggests, “Just skip the refined seed oils, they’re high in omega-6s and can fuel inflammation if overused.”

Any veggie works great

According to Dr Sethi, leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli burn faster. He suggests lightly greasing the air fryer with a small amount of oil and using parchment paper or silicone liners to ensure the vegetables turn crisp rather than charred – as burnt veggies can trigger inflammation.

Reusing the same oil is fine

Dr Sethi emphasises the importance of regularly cleaning your air fryer, warning that leftover oil exposed to high heat can lead to the formation of oxidised fats. This process generates harmful byproducts that can burden your liver and upset your gut health. He strongly advises thoroughly cleaning the tray and replacing the oil regularly.

Safest air fryer liner

Dr Sethi recommends using food-grade silicone liners—BPA-free and FDA-approved—as the safest choice for air fryers. They are free from PFAS and microplastics, heat-resistant up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, contain no artificial dyes or coatings, and are perforated to allow proper airflow. Another safe option is unbleached, perforated parchment paper, which is free from wax and chlorine.

Season after air frying

According to Dr Sethi, “Spices like turmeric, garlic, cumin, and paprika release their antioxidants better during cooking.” Hence, adding the spices during cooking not only enhances flavour but also releases gut-friendly polyphenols.

All air fryers are the same

Some air fryers have Teflon (PTFE) coated baskets, which may degrade at high temperatures over time. Dr Sethi recommends choosing ceramic-coated or stainless steel interiors that not only last longer but are also better for your health.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS, Harvard-trained gastroenterologist shares 5 early signs of unhealthy gut: Weak immunity to bloating after meal
Lifestyle

AIIMS, Harvard-trained gastroenterologist shares 5 early signs of unhealthy gut: Weak immunity to bloating after meal

by jummy84
written by jummy84

A compromised gut often becomes the cause of many underlying issues in our body. Therefore, it is often recommended to include probiotic and prebiotic foods in your diet, exercise regularly, stay hydrated, and eat more fibre-rich foods to maintain overall health.

According to the gastroenterologist, if you consistently feel gassy or bloated after meals, it may indicate that your gut bacteria are imbalanced. (Freepik)

Also Read | Cardiologist with 20 years of experience reveals the 1 anti-ageing tool to lower heart disease, diabetes risk by 50%

But what if you still feel that you have an unhealthy gut? Dr Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist trained at AIIMS, Stanford and Harvard Universities, highlighted the 5 early signs that indicate an unhealthy gut.

5 early signs of an unhealthy gut

In an Instagram post dated October 12, Dr Sethi shared the 5 signs of having an unhealthy gut, with the caption, “Board-certified gastroenterologist shares 5 Early Signs of an Unhealthy Gut. Which of these signs have you noticed in yourself?” Let’s find out:

1. Funhealthy gut

According to the gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, if you’re always feeling gassy or bloated after meals, it could mean your gut bacteria are imbalanced.

2. Irregular bowel movements

Stating irregular bowel movements as a sign of an unhealthy gut, the gastroenterologist said, “Chronic constipation or diarrhoea is often your gut’s way of signalling trouble.”

3. Unexplained fatigue

“Poor gut health affects nutrient absorption, leaving you tired even after proper rest,” Dr Saurabh Sethi pointed out.

4. Food intolerances

If certain foods trigger discomfort, according to the gastroenterologist, your gut microbiome may be struggling to process them properly, which can be an early sign of compromised gut health.

5. Weakened immunity

Lastly, a weakened immunity is also an early sign of an unhealthy gut. Dr Sethi noted, “70 percent of your immune system lives in your gut. Frequent colds or infections can mean your gut needs attention.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist reveals 10 breakfast mistakes that cause bloating: ‘Skipping breakfast and then…’
Lifestyle

AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist reveals 10 breakfast mistakes that cause bloating: ‘Skipping breakfast and then…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Oct 11, 2025 08:07 am IST

Breakfast is a crucial meal for gut health, but mistakes can lead to bloating. Gastroenterologist Dr Sethi highlights 10 common breakfast errors.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. What you eat first thing in the morning to break your fast after the last meal you ate the previous night, after waking up, sets the tone for the day you will have. However, even with this knowledge, we still make mistakes that can create issues for our gut health, such as bloating.

We all may be guilty of skipping breakfast on some days, but being a frequent offender could impact our overall health. (Freepik)

Also Read | Happy Birthday Amitabh Bachchan: 83-year-old superstar’s fitness routine is all about this mindset

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, shared in an Instagram post on October 9, the 10 mistakes we unknowingly make during breakfast that may be causing bloating.

10 mistakes that cause bloating after having breakfast

Sharing the post, Dr Sethi wrote, “10 breakfast mistakes that cause bloating, according to a stomach doctor. Which of these mistakes do you think you might be making?” Let’s find out what these mistakes are:

  • Skipping breakfast and then overeating later
  • Starting the day with sugar cereals or pastries
  • Overloading on milk if you are lactose sensitive
  • Drinking coffee on an empty stomach
  • Eating too fast without chewing properly
  • Using artificial sweeteners in drinks or foods
  • Relying on ultra-processed protein bars or shakes
  • Having carbonated drinks first thing in the morning
  • Not including enough fibre-rich foods in your breakfast
  • Large high-fat fried breakfast options (greasy oils, processed meats)

Why is skipping breakfast harmful?

We all may be guilty of skipping breakfast on some days, but being a frequent offender could impact our overall health. In a 2022 interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ashit Bhagwati, honorary consultant in internal medicine and honorary academic director ICU at Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai, revealed skipping breakfast can be responsible for weight gain, slow metabolism, high BP, headache and dizziness, uncontrolled blood sugar levels, acidity, low energy, and low immunity. Learn more about it here.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

Catch every big hit, every wicket with Crick-it, a one stop destination for Live Scores, Match Stats, Quizzes, Polls & much more. Explore now!.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.

News / Lifestyle / Health / AIIMS-trained gastroenterologist reveals 10 breakfast mistakes that cause bloating: ‘Skipping breakfast and then…’

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fortis gastroenterologist reveals if dal has enough protein: ‘You are a fool if…’
Lifestyle

Fortis gastroenterologist reveals if dal has enough protein: ‘You are a fool if…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Dal is an essential part of the Indian meal and is often consumed as a high source of protein. But does dal have enough protein to fulfil your daily requirements? To find the answer, you will need to know how much protein is in a 100g serving of dal.

Dal is considered a protein source in every Indian household, but it is not remotely sufficient. (Freepik)

Also Read | Neurosurgeon with 33 years of experience shares 3 rules to control body weight: ‘For 21 days…’

Does dal contain enough protein?

Dr Shubham Vatsya, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist with over 10+ years of experience, Fortis Vasant Kunj, shared a video on Instagram on September 23 detailing whether dal is a great source of protein or not. Let’s find out:

Explaining if eating a bowl of dal is enough for you to complete your protein intake for the day, the gastroenterologist stated, “If you consider dal a protein-rich source, you’re a fool.”

‘For 24 g of protein from dal, you’d need to eat at least 5 bowls’

“Yes, dal does contain some protein, but they’re not even remotely sufficient. Dal is considered a protein source in every Indian household. And 100 grams of uncooked dal contains 24 grams of protein, which is five or six grams less than 100 grams of chicken,” Dr Vatsya pointed out.

However, according to the gastroenterologist, it’s impossible to eat 100 grams of dal in one meal. He explained, “When you cook 100 grams of dal, it makes up to five to six bowls, which an entire family can eat. Realistically, a bowl of cooked dal contains only four to five grams of protein. To get 24 grams of protein, you’d need to eat at least five bowls of dal.”

‘Dal is an incomplete protein source’

Dr Vastya highlighted another important thing about dal: “They are an incomplete protein source.” He explained that it is because they miss some essential amino acids, and that’s why your body can’t absorb dal properly.

Lastly, he stressed that if you think you’re getting high protein by eating only dal, you’re wrong. Rather, to make your meals high in protein: “Combine dal with cheese, eggs, curd, and whey protein.”

“Only then will your plate balance become muscle-building, gut-healing, and body-supporting. Be sure to show these reels to your mom, who keeps giving you dal, thinking they’re high in protein,” he added.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Stanford and UCLA-trained gastroenterologist shares 1 simple 5-minute hack to relieve flaring hemorrhoids
Lifestyle

Stanford and UCLA-trained gastroenterologist shares 1 simple 5-minute hack to relieve flaring hemorrhoids

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Updated on: Oct 06, 2025 04:19 pm IST

Gastroenterologist Dr Wendi suggests lifting your legs for 5 minutes to relieve hemorrhoid pain, as it decompresses veins and enhances blood flow back to heart.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your anal canal and are commonly exacerbated by increased pressure from straining, prolonged sitting, and pregnancy. While some hemorrhoids can go away on their own in some cases, others have to be treated by doctors.

Lifting your legs for 5 minutes can be a quick hack to be pain-free when your hemorrhoids are flaring. (Shutterstock)

Also Read | Fortis gastroenterologist with 10 years of experience reveals power of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s favourite moringa

But what if there were a simple way to relieve pain from hemorrhoids when they are flaring? In a post shared on August 18, Dr Wendi, a Stanford and UCLA-trained gastroenterologist, shared a simple hack to be pain-free. Let’s find out what it is:

How to relieve hemorrhoids in 5 minutes?

The gastroenterologist revealed that lifting your legs for 5 minutes can be a quick hack to be pain-free when your hemorrhoids are flaring. In the video, titled ‘When you learn that lying like this for 5 minutes can help relieve hemorrhoids that are flaring’, Dr Wendi can be seen lying on a sofa with her legs raised in the air, with her heels placed on the wall for support.

How does this help? According to the gastroenterologist, lifting your hips helps decompress the veins and encourages blood flow back to the heart using gravity. Here’s how to do it:

All you need to know about hemorrhoids

According to data shared by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), hemorrhoid disease is the fourth leading gastrointestinal diagnosis, accounting for 3.3 million cases in the United States. Meanwhile, the self-reported incidences of hemorrhoids is 10 million per year, which is approximately 4.4 percent of the population.

Meanwhile, in India, it has been projected that about 50 percent of the population would have hemorrhoids at some point in their life, probably by the time they reach the age of 50, and approximately 5 percent of the population suffer from haemorrhoids at any given point in time.

News / Lifestyle / Fitness / Stanford and UCLA-trained gastroenterologist shares 1 simple 5-minute hack to relieve flaring hemorrhoids

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fortis gastroenterologist with 10 years of experience reveals power of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's favourite moringa
Lifestyle

Fortis gastroenterologist with 10 years of experience reveals power of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s favourite moringa

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Moringa, also known as drumstick or sahjan, is a favourite of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Often consumed for its beneficial properties, the drumstick and its leaves gained popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic. Even the PM praised its benefits, saying, “This drumstick, moringa, is very important from a nutritional standpoint; I’ve often heard so. So I used to make parathas myself.”

Whether it’s bloating after meals or recovering from antibiotics, moringa can do wonders for your digestion and immunity.(adobe stock)

Also Read | Cardiologist reveals patient thought his low heart rate was just ‘good fitness’; warns why it is dangerous

But how beneficial is its consumption? In an Instagram post shared on September 13, Dr Shubham Vatsya, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist from Fortis Vasant Kunj with over 10+ years of experience, detailed the many benefits of adding moringa to your daily diet.

Power of Narendra Modi’s favourite moringa!

Sharing the post, Dr Vatsya highlighted that moringa, also known as drumstick leaves, is rich in nutrients and powerful compounds that help soothe acidity, combat inflammation, and protect the body from long-term damage. He added, “Whether it’s bloating after meals or recovering from antibiotics, this humble leaf can do wonders for your digestion and immunity. Truly, a superfood hiding in plain sight.”

What makes moringa beneficial for our bodies?

According to the gastroenterologist, if you experience burning or bloating after every meal, moringa can be your best solution.

But how? He said that moringa contains moringin, a stable isothiocyanate that:

  • repairs the gut lining,
  • neutralises acid,
  • and boosts digestion by activating your intestine’s bitter receptors.

Dr Vatsya highlighted that this leaf has been globally researched for its properties, including:

  • highly effective anti-inflammatory properties,
  • anti-cancer properties,
  • and anti-ulcer properties.

Additionally, moringa is rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, calcium, and potassium, which also protect against heart disease and cell damage. “Most importantly, moringa is stable; unlike many vegetables, its effects remain powerful even after cooking. So if you have gut issues, poor immunity, or are struggling with post-antibiotic recovery, moringa should be your ideal choice,” the gastroenterologist added.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS gastroenterologist suggests low-FODMAP swaps for fruits and veggies that trigger gut issues
Lifestyle

AIIMS gastroenterologist suggests low-FODMAP swaps for fruits and veggies that trigger gut issues

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Fruits and vegetables are often considered the cornerstone of a healthy diet, but for people with sensitive guts, certain produce can trigger bloating, gas, and digestive distress. While avoiding them altogether may seem like the only solution, the good news is that you don’t always have to give up your favourites – you can simply switch to gentler, low-FODMAP alternatives that are kinder to your stomach.

Some fruits and vegetables can be harsh for people with a sensitive gut – Dr Sethi suggests alternatives that are gentler.(Unsplash)

Also Read | AIIMS-trained doctor shares ‘8 snacks to have instead of Coke and Pepsi to avoid liver damage’

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, shares low-FODMAP alternatives to common fruits and vegetables that often trigger digestive discomfort in people with sensitive guts. In an Instagram video posted on October 3, he suggests simple food swaps that are easier to digest and gentler on the stomach.

What is FODMAP?

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, FODMAP is an acronym for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols – types of short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. For some people, consuming foods high in FODMAPs can trigger digestive discomfort, leading to symptoms such as cramping, bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea.

Swap apples for kiwis

Dr Sethi recommends switching to kiwi fruit, in case apples cause bloating or gas. Kiwis are lower in FODMAP content, and good for gut and digestive health.

Swap cherries for strawberries

According to Dr Sethi, “If you eat cherries and they trigger gut issues, swap them for strawberries, a gentler, low FODMAP fruit.”

Swap ripe bananas for green bananas

Ripe bananas might cause bloating, so the gastroenterologist suggests switching to slightly green bananas, which is the low FODMAP version.

Also Read | Cardiologist shares 8 heart-healthy foods to include in your daily diet: Quinoa, chickpeas, and more

Swap cauliflower for zucchini

According to Dr Sethi, “If you eat cauliflower and it leads to bloating, swap it for zucchini, which is a low FODMAP veggie.”

Swap asparagus for okra

The gastroenterologist suggests swapping asparagus for okra, which is easier to digest, in case the former leaves you bloated.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS gastroenterologist shares hack 'to turn eggs into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse': Check his full recipe
Lifestyle

AIIMS gastroenterologist shares hack ‘to turn eggs into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse’: Check his full recipe

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Eggs are one of nature’s protein-packed gifts: they’re delicious, cheap, and versatile. If you love eggs, then there are a few things that could be better than a perfectly cooked egg, making them a healthy option for breakfast and beyond. But do you usually eat eggs plain, or do you try adding anti-inflammatory ingredients? Also read | AIIMS gastroenterologist ranks popular breakfasts for gut health on a scale of 1 to 10: Upma, overnight oats, granola

Incorporate anti-inflammatory ingredients into eggs to make them healthier. Here’s what Dr Saurabh Sethi suggested. (Freepik)

Gut-friendly, anti-inflammatory eggs recipe

In a September 28 Instagram post, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, said, “Most people think eggs are just protein. But as a gastroenterologist, here is how I turned them into a gut-friendly, anti-inflammatory powerhouse in 5 steps.” He added, “Save this recipe, try it out, and don’t forget to share with your family and friends.”

Here’s what he recommends:

Step 1

Dr Sethi said, “First, crack in two whole eggs. For most people, up to two yolks a day is perfectly fine. The cholesterol scare around eggs is outdated science.”

Step 2

“Add a pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory power and black pepper to activate it. That combo is my secret gut-friendly hack,” Dr Sethi said.

Step 3

He added: “Don’t forget salt, but keep it light.”

Step 4

“Load your eggs with veggies. Tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, and even olives. (0:41) This adds fibre, antioxidants, and healthy fats that your gut microbes love,” Dr Sethi said.

Step 5

He concluded, “Cook them gently. Scrambled, omelette, however you like. Avoid drowning them in oil. Let the ingredients shine.”

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
AIIMS gastroenterologist warns against ‘having coffee on empty stomach’, shares 7 worst coffee habits to avoid for gut
Lifestyle

AIIMS gastroenterologist warns against ‘having coffee on empty stomach’, shares 7 worst coffee habits to avoid for gut

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Coffee is one of the most loved beverages worldwide, with millions relying on it to kick-start their mornings or power through long days. But while that cup of coffee may feel like a saviour, certain everyday habits around it can quietly harm your health in the long run.

Avoid these coffee mistakes to protect your gut health and sleep quality. (Pixabay)

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford Universities, in his September 28 Instagram post, breaks down the 7 worst coffee habits you need to avoid. Here is what he said:

1. Coffee on an empty stomach

Starting your day with coffee instead of food can increase stomach acid production, leading to reflux, nausea, bloating, and even gastritis if it becomes a daily routine.

2. Sugar, creamers and syrups

That flavoured latte may taste indulgent, but it often carries 30–50 grams of hidden sugar. Regular intake adds excess calories, promotes fatty liver, and raises the risk of diabetes.

3. More than four cups a day

Crossing 400 mg of caffeine daily (about four cups) can spike cortisol levels, irritate the gut lining, and cause palpitations, jitteriness, and anxiety.

4. Late-night coffee

Since caffeine has a half-life of 5–6 hours, an evening cup can interfere with deep sleep cycles. Poor sleep hampers the liver’s natural detox and repair processes.

5. Using coffee to mask fatigue

Relying on caffeine to power through exhaustion instead of addressing poor sleep worsens burnout. Over time, it contributes to brain fog, hormonal imbalance, and digestive stress.

6. Artificial sweeteners

“Zero calories” doesn’t mean safe. Sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame may disturb gut microbes, disrupt digestion, and impact long-term gut health.

7. Light roast doesn’t mean gentler

It’s a common myth that lighter roasts are easier on the stomach. In reality, dark roasts tend to be less acidic and may be better tolerated by those prone to reflux or GERD.

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Gastroenterologist reveals how long hours of sitting at work impact your gut health: ‘Causes bloating, constipation…’
Lifestyle

Gastroenterologist reveals how long hours of sitting at work impact your gut health: ‘Causes bloating, constipation…’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Long hours of sitting at a desk at work are red-flagged by medical experts because of the adverse effects on health, from back pain to heart health. It also negatively impacts your gut. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Senthil Ganesan, senior consultant, surgical gastroenterologist at SIMS Hospital, Chennai, revealed that beyond the commonly known obesity and metabolic disorders, long hours of sitting at a desk impact the gut seriously, especially the intestines.

Sitting long hours at desk affects your gut motility. (Shutterstock)

ALSO READ: Acidity and bloating continue despite medications? Gastroenterologist reveals this reason behind common gut issues

Why is gut health at risk?

He explained the reason behind why the gut is at risk, “Our digestive system, especially the intestines, relies on regular movement, or peristalsis, to keep things flowing. When we stay still, gut motility slows down, causing bloating, constipation, and discomfort.”

Moreover, according to the doctor, prolonged sitting causes a ‘stagnation’ in your gut that heightens inflammation and makes you feel tired at work.

He further elaborated, “The gut is not just a tube that moves food from one end to another. It’s a complex system with muscles contracting in waves, nerves coordinating these movements, and bacteria aiding digestion. When we sit for too long, these muscles don’t get the workout they need. If your overall activity is low, things start to stagnate, especially after a high-calorie, fat-rich, modern diet. This stagnation in the gut can trigger inflammation, slow metabolism, and make you feel lethargic.”

What to do?

Walk instead of being seated if you are taking calls. (Freepik)
Walk instead of being seated if you are taking calls. (Freepik)

What is the best way to protect your gut health if you have a desk job that may include long hours of sitting? Dr Senthil Ganesan highlighted the value of taking frequent breaks, drinking water, and maintaining a high-fibre diet.

He said, “In addition to a daily workout at home, you should avoid sitting in one place at the office for more than 45 minutes. Even short, strategic breaks—like walking around the office or doing stretches—can help. Make a habit of standing up while taking phone calls. Drinking water regularly helps, as dehydration also slows down bowel movements and is a common cause of constipation. Many people turn to high-fibre diets to keep their intestines moving, but fibre alone can’t replace movement. ”

His advice was that if you are feeling bloated at work, start moving, such as stretching or standing during calls.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts