Winter Stomach Pain
If you're experiencing stomach pain this winter, you're not alone. Many people suffer from abdominal discomfort during the colder months. There are a few reasons why this happens, and luckily, there are some simple things you can do to ease your symptoms. Read on to learn more.
What causes it?
Winter stomach pains can prove to be a persistent problem for many people. During the cold winter months, many people experience an increase in stomach ache issues for a variety of reasons.
As the temperature drops, our body’s defense mechanisms kick in to protect us from the cold. This usually means constricting blood vessels and increasing internal pressure within the digestive system. This increased pressure can cause stomach cramps and pain, commonly known as a “cold stomach”. In addition, digestive enzymes tend to work less efficiently when temperatures are low, leading to indigestion and bloating.
You may also be eating more food than you're used to during the holiday season. Try to be more conscious about how much is on your plate. Additionally, the stress of the holidays can lead to an increase in stomach discomfort.
How to prevent it?
Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent your winter stomach pains.
- Eat smaller meals more often - Eating several small meals throughout the day is easier on your digestive system than having large meals just a few times a day.
- Stay away from spicy food - Spicy foods are notorious for causing heartburn and stomach pain, so try to avoid them if possible.
- Avoid carbonated drinks - The bubbles in soft drinks can irritate the walls of your stomach, leading to even more pain. Swap out soda and other bubbly beverages with teas or waters with added fruits for flavor.
- Keep warm - Keeping yourself warm helps reduce abdominal pain associated with stomach cramps and indigestion. So make sure to wear lots of layers and have extra blankets available if needed!
- Stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of water is essential for flushing out toxins in the body, preventing constipation which often exacerbates stomach pain, and ensuring proper digestion of food overall.
How to treat cold stomach pains
Treating an upset stomach can feel impossible, but luckily there are a number of home remedies that may help. Here’s a list of potential solutions that might bring some relief:
- Chamomile tea – Drinking chamomile tea can help reduce inflammation in the digestive system, calming any pain and cramping.
- Ginger – Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective at relieving symptoms of indigestion such as nausea and gas pain. Try drinking ginger tea or taking it in capsule form to get its benefits.
- Fennel – Fennel is a herb used for centuries as a stomach soother due to its carminative effects that help reduce bloating and other digestive issues. Try adding fresh fennel seeds to your meals or drinking fennel tea for relief.
- Lemon juice – The acidic properties of lemon juice can help reduce nausea and other digestive discomfort. Squeeze fresh lemons into warm water and sip slowly throughout the day to see if this helps alleviate your symptoms.
- Mint – Menthol found in mint is known for its soothing effects on the stomach, particularly when it comes to nausea and indigestion caused by food sensitivity or acid reflux. Enjoy some peppermint tea or simply chew on a few leaves for fast-acting relief against intestinal pain caused by gas or bloating.
By following these suggestions you can help reduce the likelihood of a cold stomach during wintertime, as well as quickly and effectively treat any symptoms that arise. Remember to listen to your body and take care of yourself when it comes to digestive health—your stomach will thank you for it!
Northeast Digestive Can Help
If your stomach pain persists despite trying the remedies above, it's time to reach out to a gastroenterologist who specializes in digestive disorders. At Northeast Digestive Health Center, our team of gastroenterologists and nurses is here to answer any questions you have about your stomach concerns. We can help diagnose and treat conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and lactose intolerance, as well as provide guidance to help you find relief from the pain. Schedule an appointment today and let us get you back on the path to digestive health.
