During warm weather, you have to pay more attention to your intestine. Here are the tips Doctor Beatrice Salvioli, a gastroenterologist at Humanitas, gave on Radio 24’s program “Heart and money”.
Fibers and Hydration
During warm weather, we generally eat fibres. They surely are healthy for our body, but their consumption has to be accompanied by proper hydration. In fact, without the right amount of water, fibres may cause bloating and constipation.
Fibers and Intestinal Microbiota
Fibers are the main food of our intestinal microbiota. Latest studies have demonstrated that the microbiota feeds on fibres, and thus they are also important for every immune defence process.
How much Should we Drink?
The excess loss of liquids sends thirst signals to our body. On average, we should drink a glass of water every hour (around 120cc of water). Pay attention: children and elderly people dehydrate more rapidly, also because they tend to feel less thirsty than other people.
Intestinal Regularity
It is common to lose the intestinal regularity while on vacation. First of all, we have to remember that each intestine is different from another, that regularity is different from person to person, and that not everyone needs to evacuate daily. Those who find it difficult to evacuate when changing location, and thus fear of having problems on vacation, should eat fibres every day before their trip in order to predispose their intestine. You will find soluble fibres in pharmacies and drink them in a glass of water (in the evening or before any meal). Physical activity is also important for your intestinal movement.
Tips for Those with a lazy Bowel
They should eat fibres, drink water and engage in physical activities. The optimal amount of fibre is 25 grams per day, to be obtained via fibre-rich foods. Bran, for instance, contains 46 grams of fibre per 100 grams of product, and it is very good for breakfast.
In case of Irritable Bowel or Colitis
Avoid abrupt changes in temperature and air conditioning, iced beverages, milk and dairy products. If you travel abroad and fear of having trip-related constipation, eat well-cooked foods and packed beverages.
Signs to keep in Consideration
In general, adults who have relatives with severe intestinal problems and who are experiencing changes in their own regularity (from normal to constipated, or from normality to dysentery) should go to their doctor immediately. They should also do so if they notice the presence of blood in their stool.
