Doctors Encourage Balanced Diets and Lifestyle Modifications to Enhance Gut Health on World Digestive Health Day
May 29, Islamabad (APP) — Medical professionals in Pakistan have stressed the critical need to embrace a nutrient-rich, balanced diet and a better lifestyle in order to avoid and manage digestive illnesses on the occasion of World Digestive Health Day, which is commemorated annually on May 29 worldwide.
Leading medical experts Dr. Sultan Zaib, Dr. Sarwar Malik, and Dr. Tayyab Saeed discussed the concerning increase in digestive disorders and pinpointed the main causes of these ailments at a news conference at the National news Club. They noted that among the main causes of poor gut health in the general population are unhealthy, high-fat diets, inadequate water consumption, and irregular lifestyle choices.
The Significance of Digestive Health
A vital part of preserving general health is our digestive system. It converts the food we eat into vital nutrients that the body needs for development, repair, and energy. In addition to causing discomfort, improper digestive system function can result in nutrient deficiencies, weakened immunity, and chronic health issues.
The goal of World Digestive Health Day is to increase awareness among health professionals worldwide about the importance of a healthy digestive system and how many of these problems can be avoided with the correct adjustments.
Increasingly Common Digestive Problems
The doctors disclosed at the press conference that even after taking medication, more than 40% of people still have indigestion and acidity. People are treating symptoms without addressing the underlying causes, which is a deeper issue that is reflected in this shocking statistic.
The following are a few of the most often reported digestive issues:
Heartburn and acid reflux
Dyspepsia (indigestion)
Gas and bloating
Constipation
IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome
Physicians observed that contemporary lifestyle choices frequently exacerbate several issues, including:
Late-night eating
Eating too much or missing meals
Spending a lot of time sitting
Eating greasy, hot, or processed foods
They also emphasized how smoking, drinking, and emotional stress all significantly impair regular digestion processes.
Diet’s Impact on Digestive Health
According to Dr. Sultan Zaib, “one of the main causes of digestive illness is a poor diet.” Fast food and packaged meals that are heavy in sugar and fat and lacking in fiber are becoming more and more popular. Despite their convenience, these foods severely damage the digestive tract.
The event’s doctors strongly advised a diet high in fiber, which consists of:
Fresh produce and fruits
Whole grains
Pulses and legumes
Seeds and nuts
In order to maintain a healthy balance of gut flora, which is essential for both immune support and proper digestion, they also suggested taking probiotics, such as yogurt and fermented foods.
Easy Lifestyle Modifications for Better Digestive Health
One in three people worldwide, according to doctors, have some kind of digestive issue. Children and teenagers are increasingly being impacted by the rise in these problems, which is not just affecting adults.
Even among school-age children, Dr. Sarwar Malik observed, “poor dietary choices, lack of physical activity, and overuse of sugary drinks are leading to digestive complaints.” “This needs immediate attention and is very concerning.”
Childhood Nutrition’s Significance
The significance of childhood nutrition was another important point made at the news conference. Early gut health paves the way for improved growth, immunity, and brain development.
The physicians stressed that parents and educational institutions ought to:
Give kids healthy, well-balanced meals.
Restrict their consumption of sugary snacks, fizzy beverages, and junk food.
Promote outdoor recreation and active play.
Children should be taught the value of attentive eating and slow chewing.
One of the best ways to avoid future health issues is to take care of gut health from an early age.
Call for a Nationwide Public Awareness Campaign
A broad public awareness campaign to promote digestive health and educate the general public on adopting healthy lifestyle choices was advocated by the panel of experts in their final remarks. They suggested that media organizations, medical facilities, and educational institutions work together to conduct focused campaigns, particularly in remote regions with low awareness levels.
According to Dr. Tayyab Saeed, “people need to know that digestive disorders are largely preventable.” “We can improve the quality of life for millions of people and lessen the strain on our healthcare system if we can change people’s attitudes toward healthy eating and living.”
Conclusion: An Urgent Appeal
As we commemorate World Digestive Health Day, it is evident that gut health is essential and not a luxury. Medical professionals’ message is straightforward but impactful: your digestive system’s health is determined by your lifestyle choices and the foods you eat.
In addition to preventing digestive disorders, people can improve their longevity, energy levels, and mood by adopting a balanced diet, drinking lots of water, exercising, and reducing stress.
Since a healthy gut translates into a healthier you, it’s time to take control of our health, beginning with our digestive system.
