5 Reasons Your Digestion Is Worse in the Winter

Do your digestive issues seem to get worse in the winter?

You might be quick to blame the cold weather, but it’s not necessarily the winter chill that’s causing tummy trouble – it’s often how we react to it.

Here are a few reasons your digestion gets worse in the winter, according to Jeffry Nestler, MD, gastroenterologist, co-physician in chief of Digestive Health Institute.

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You’re more sedentary.

“During the winter, people are more sedentary, and their activity levels are often lower, so their gut motility slows down,” says Dr. Nestler.

Gut motility has to do with the muscles of the stomach and digestive tract that propel food through the digestive tract. When this action is slowed down, it can cause gastroparesis, which affects about 5 million people in the United States.

Being sedentary can also lead to a slower metabolism, and less energy or motivation.

The remedy? Get out and take a walk, enjoy the brisk air! Or make a point to set aside time to go to the gym or exercise at home to increase your activity.

You drink less water.

During the summer heat, hydration is top of mind. But when winter hits, people tend to drink less water.
Remember to keep your water bottle nearby and refill it, and try to choose water over sugary sodas or another cup of coffee.

Speaking of coffee, Dr. Nestler advises watching your intake. In the colder months, you may fill up your coffee cup a few times or even have a third glass of tea, but he warns caffeine can increase acid reflux and affect gut motility.

Decaf is better, but he still suggests limiting yourself. And if you suffer from acid reflux? It may be best to avoid coffee all together.

Read more reasons why you might be suffering from digestive issues this winter here.