Dr. Sarin discusses methods to improve gut health for bloating, burping, and gas

There is a close relationship between mental health issues and digestion, which is actively discussed in modern medical science. This connection is called the 'gut-brain axis,' which represents a direct and bidirectional communication channel between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, through which they constantly exchange signals.

Strong mental stress or anxiety can lead to digestive problems such as stomach pain, heartburn, or constipation, which is explained by the function of this axis.

At the Healthwealth Summit in Delhi, Dr. Ashwani Chopra, a gastroenterologist from Ashlok Hospital, and life coach Rasik Chopra shared their thoughts on the 'gut-brain axis.' They noted that our digestive system contains the enteric nervous system, which holds billions of nerve cells that regulate the process of digestion, food movement, and intestinal activity.

The gut is often colloquially referred to as the 'second brain' due to its control over numerous digestive processes. However, this does not mean that the gut is capable of thinking or making decisions, as the brain and the gut have their own separate functions, but they are connected to each other.

The vagus nerve plays a key role in connecting the gut and the brain. It transmits information received from the gut to the brain, and the brain, in turn, sends signals to the digestive system. For example, stress caused by mental tension can affect how the gut functions and how food is digested. Conversely, changes occurring in the gut, such as inflammation or chemical shifts, can also send signals to the brain.

Trillions of microorganisms live in our gut, known as the gut microbiome, among which are beneficial bacteria. These microbes help break down certain components of food, synthesize vitamins, and produce short-chain fatty acids. During prolonged stress, the body's stress response system is activated, which can alter or increase levels of hormones such as cortisol. This is why some people may experience stomach pain, gas, diarrhea, or constipation during stress.

A feeling of abdominal bloating, heaviness, or gas formation after eating is a common problem. Often, such symptoms arise from overeating or consuming fatty foods. Most people tend to attribute this to indigestion and take gas relief medications, but doctors warn that bloating can be a sign of some liver disease.

Dr. Ajit Jhaian, an associate professor at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital in Delhi, noted that any liver disease can cause abdominal bloating. In some cases, a serious liver condition called ascites leads to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. This causes a gradual increase in the abdomen and a feeling of heaviness. It is important to note that in the early stages of fatty liver disease, fluid in the abdomen usually does not accumulate. Ascites can indicate serious liver disease, but there are other causes for this condition.

According to Dr. Ajit, if the problem is related to gas or indigestion, bloating is usually observed only after meals and subsides after the gas passes. However, with liver diseases such as ascites, bloating can occur both after meals and on an empty stomach. Accompanying symptoms may include leg and ankle swelling, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing.

People who have consumed a lot of alcohol for a long time, suffer from hepatitis B or C, as well as patients with chronic liver diseases, should closely monitor these signs. Obesity and diabetes also increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease. Special attention should be paid to situations where the abdomen constantly increases or when leg swelling appears.

To prevent liver diseases, it is crucial to control one's diet. It is necessary to reduce the consumption of white flour, sugar, and salt. The diet should include green vegetables and fruits. It is also recommended to engage in physical exercise for at least half an hour daily and to completely give up alcohol consumption.