As soon as the New Year arrives, many people make plans to visit the mountains. Some want to go to Manali, some to Shimla, some to Leh-Ladakh or Mussoorie. Snow covered hills, cool breeze, beautiful views and relaxing atmosphere attract everyone. But as beautiful as these places are, they also bring with them many problems. It has often been seen that as soon as people reach high altitude places, their stomach starts getting upset. Some people start getting gas, some people’s stomach gets bloated, some people start having problems like constipation, heaviness or confusion.

Sometimes one even loses appetite and does not feel like eating. In such a situation, the question arises that why the stomach gets upset as soon as one goes to the mountains. Does this happen only because of cold or eating outside food, or is there some other big reason behind it. According to nutritionists, the reason for stomach upset at altitude is not just the weather or travel fatigue, but it has a direct connection with our body’s oxygen level, nervous system and digestive system. So let us know why stomach gets upset at high altitude and how it can be avoided.

Why does our stomach get upset due to traveling at high altitude?

Nutritionists say that the biggest reason for stomach problems at altitude is hypoxia, that is, the body is not getting enough oxygen. As we go above sea level, the amount of oxygen in the air decreases. Its effect not only affects our breathing, but also affects the entire body, especially the nervous system and digestive system. There is a special nerve in our body, which is called vagus nerve.

This nerve controls our digestive system i.e. movement of intestines, release of enzymes that digest food, emptying of the stomach at the right time, all these tasks are done with the help of vagus nerve. But when we go to high altitude and the body does not get enough oxygen, the vagus nerve is not able to function properly. The result is that digestion slows down, stomach empties late, gas starts forming, stomach gets swollen, heaviness and restlessness are felt. This is the reason why the stomach feels full even without eating much in the mountains.

What does the study say?

According to nutritionists, a study has found that hypoxia slows down GI motility i.e. the movement of the intestines. When food moves slowly through the intestines, it remains in the stomach for a longer time. Due to this the food starts fermenting and more gas is produced. This is why people often complain of bloating and gas at altitude.

Cold also spoils digestion

At high altitude places, not only is oxygen less, but the cold is also very severe. Due to cold, the body’s sympathetic nervous system becomes active, which is commonly called fight or flight mode. In this mode, the body’s focus is on saving energy and not on digestion, the effect of this is that digestion becomes slower, appetite decreases, stomach feels heavy and dull.

How to prepare your stomach before travelling?

Just as we pack our suitcase thoughtfully before travelling, similarly preparation of the stomach is also important. Therefore, before leaving, do not eat very heavy, fried or spicy food, eat light and easily digestible food, drink enough water, avoid dehydration, include fiber and probiotic foods in the diet, take small meals during the journey, avoid overeating.

Also read: Liver Cancer: When does fatty liver turn into liver cancer? Understand the symptoms before the problem increases

Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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