Nutritionist Talks About Bloated And Disoriented Gut On High Altitude
High altitude conditions can have a detrimental effect on gut health by rupturing the intestinal barrier and changing the gut microbiota. This potentially results in gastrointestinal problems and aggravated altitude-related diseases. A limited but growing body of research suggests the intestinal barrier can be affected by sudden exposure to high altitudes. Nutritionist Pooja Makhija echoed a similar sentiment and stated that high altitude disrupts the entire enteric nervous system—the "second brain" in your gut.
Speaking in an Instagram video, Pooja noted that trying to eat healthy while on vacation in the hills can cause unanticipated bloating. She added that increased altitude leads to lower air pressure, and gas expands in your body when pressure decreases.
'The increase in the altitude means a reduction in air pressure,' she said.
According to Pooja Makhija, ascending causes hypoxia, a drop in oxygen levels that impairs digestion and increases gas and bloating.
Hypoxia causes the vagus nerve, which regulates digestion, to react poorly, which results in slow motility, inadequate enzyme release, and delayed gastric emptying, she added.
To alleviate discomfort, Pooja suggested sipping ajwain water after meals, taking a leisurely walk, and avoiding heavy or cold foods.
Drinking ajwain (carom seed) water after meals helps with digestion. Bloating can be reduced by taking a leisurely 10-minute stroll after eating; known as the "fart walk" for good cause. Avoid cold foods, hefty meals, and foods like pahadi quick noodles if you want to reduce bloating.
Pooja Makhija added that the sympathetic nervous system—your fight-or-flight response—is triggered by cold, which further slows digestion. Therefore, your nervous system is going into energy-conservation mode alongside to the pressure.
According to the nutritionist, travel has an impact on your microbiota, which is simply amplified by altitude. Therefore, carefully prepare your gut the way you prepare your luggage.
Pooja concluded by saying that bloating on a hilly vacation is partly caused by the physics of altitude and is not only related to dietary choices. Travel light, both physically and in terms of food, to avoid pain.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), research shows that high altitude can change the types and amounts of gut bacteria, impacting their capabilities and capacity to release beneficial chemicals.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Pooja Makhija (@poojamakhija)
More human research is required to completely comprehend the long-term impacts of high altitude on gut health and to find viable prevention approaches.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Still using refined oil? Try these 5 healthier alternatives doctors recommend
When it comes to Indian cooking, oil is an indispensable ingredient. However, choosing the right oil is crucial especially for heart health. According to renowned cardiologist and functional medicine expert Dr. Alok Chopra, not all oils are created equal, and blindly following global cooking oil trends may not be the best choice for Indian kitchens. In an Instagram video posted on June 15, Dr. Chopra named five science-supported oils that are the most appropriate for Indian cooking. These oils are not fad-based but based on their nutritional value and compatibility with traditional Indian cuisine. Why is choosing the right cooking oil important Using the right cooking oil goes beyond just taste; it's a vital step toward better heart health. Oils rich in unsaturated fats can support cardiovascular wellness, but cutting out all fats isn't realistic. The key lies in selecting oils that both suit the nutritional needs of your body and enhance the unique flavors of Indian cuisine. Many common Western oils aren't ideal for Indian cooking methods, which often involve high-heat searing and complex spice blends. That's why choosing oils that can handle the heat—while also offering health benefits—is essential for both flavor and long-term wellness. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Source: Instagram 5 healthiest oils for Indian cooking besides refined oil The use of the appropriate oil is a matter of balance, tradition, and science. Dr. Alok Chopra's top picks include: Ghee Coconut oil Mustard oil Sesame oil Groundnut oil Each of these oils is unique in its health benefit and also complements the richness and diversity of Indian food. If you're regularly cooking Indian food, these five oils are good to have in your pantry—not for flavor alone, but for long-term health. Know more these cooking oil: India's healthiest cooking oils recommended Ghee Dr. Chopra is a big supporter of ghee, highlighting its immune-stimulating and digestive capabilities. Packed with fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, ghee promotes enhanced gut health and nutrient uptake. "Ghee is not merely a fat used for cooking—it's an Indian traditional medicinal superfood," maintains Dr. Chopra. In spite of its relatively high saturated fat status, ghee has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is one of the healthiest fats to use in moderation. Coconut Oil Coconut oil, which Dr. Chopra also loves, is chock-full of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These molecules of fat are quickly absorbed and turned into energy, so coconut oil is a great choice for brain and gut support. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), MCTs not only provide instant energy but also help regulate several metabolic and neurological diseases. Mustard Oil Mustard oil is popular in Indian homes and gets a nod from Dr. Chopra due to its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects. It has omega-5 fatty acids, which help improve circulation and bring down inflammation. "Mustard oil is one of the few oils that is great with Indian spices and yet is supportive of heart health," says Dr. Chopra. Sesame Oil With its high content of antioxidants and healthy fats, sesame oil is a good backup choice. Dr. Chopra points out its advantages for joint mobility and skin health, and it makes a valuable all-around option that feeds the body internally. Sesame oil is commonly employed in South Indian and Ayurvedic cuisine and also contains natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Groundnut Oil Last but not least, groundnut oil (peanut oil) finds a place on Dr. Chopra's list due to its good fat profile and plant sterol, which reduce cholesterol levels. Moderation is, however, the word. "Groundnut oil is good for the heart, but as with all oils, it must be consumed wisely," warns Dr. Chopra. Its lack of flavour and high smoke point make it perfect for deep frying and day-to-day Indian cuisine. A word of caution on cooking oils! In an earlier report, Dr. Chopra cautioned that the ingestion of the inappropriate type of cooking oil, particularly refined oils containing high levels of trans fats, will enhance the risk of heart disease, cancer, and obesity. Selecting oils by trends without regard for their compatibility with Indian cooking practices can be more harmful than beneficial. Also Read | Sea salt, pink salt, Celtic salt: Experts say these 'fancy' salts may secretly harm your heart health One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
NDTV
4 hours ago
- NDTV
International Yoga Day 2025: Expert Debunks Myths About Yoga
In today's hyper-connected fast-paced world, yoga is often seen as a luxury. Social media doesn't help with the narrative where it's easy to get intimidated by impossibly bendy yoga poses. The biggest barrier to starting yoga isn't physical limitation; it's the myths and misconceptions suggesting that yoga is reserved for a select few. But yoga is much more than that, it is a timeless, inclusive practice, deeply rooted in Indian tradition. It helps harmonize the mind, body, and breath. Let's shatter some illusions and discover the inclusive practice that yoga truly is. Debunking the yoga myths 1. Yoga is too slow or boring People often point out that yoga is slow and boring and hence they don't want to start something like this. They also complain that it's not fast paced to affect the required body parts. The truth is that yoga offers a wide spectrum -from calming practices to dynamic power flows. For some people, yoga is an energizing workout and for others, it's a meditative pause in chaos. 2. You need to be flexible for Yoga Yoga is not done by people who are flexible, rather yoga is done by people who want to achieve flexibility. Yoga is the journey to gradually move from your starting point to pushing the limits. The key here is patience, consistency, and compassion. 3. Yoga isn't a real workout Such myths generally stem from observing only one facet of this diverse discipline. Yoga can be physically demanding as any other gym workout session. Dynamic styles like Ashtanga and Power Yoga build serious strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness. Holding poses challenges muscles in ways that traditional weightlifting often misses, creating functional strength that translates to everyday activities. Moreover, yoga helps your most important muscle - the heart- while also focusing on your mental health. (Arpan Kushwaha is a Yoga expert at Cult) Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
NDTV
4 hours ago
- NDTV
Yoga Day 2025: Get Started With These 5 Beginner-Friendly Yoga Poses
International Yoga Day is an annual event which celebrates the ancient Indian practice globally. Every year on June 21, Yoga Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of yoga in promoting overall health. Yoga for beginners: How to get started Starting yoga is just as simple as starting your daily routine. It does not require a fancy mat, a wellness retreat, or perfect poses. It requires people to be consistent. To help you get started, here are some beginner-friendly yoga poses: 1. Tadasana (Mountain pose) This pose teaches you proper body alignment and body awareness. It is also grounding and centring, making it perfect for beginning and ending the practice. 2. Vrikshasana (Tree pose) This pose balances your body and strengthens your legs. It is also necessary for your mind to calm it down. 3. Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) This pose allows your body to integrate the benefits of practice while training your mind to be still present. It opens the chest and shoulders and strengthens the back. 4. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge pose) This backbend strengthens the glutes and hamstrings while gently opening the chest and improving posture. 5. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog) This pose strengthens arms, shoulders, and legs while stretching the entire back of the body. It energizes and appears in most yoga practices. Tips to stay consistent: You can start by committing just 10 minutes and then making it a part of your daily routine. Slowly and steadily increase the duration and track your progress. To prevent yourself from boredom, you can also check different online videos and try different styles, making it more engaging for you. Begin with a few simple movements, listen to your body, and trust the process. Yoga has something for everyone; you need to start this journey of inner exploration. This International Yoga Day begin your journey to a healthier tomorrow. (Arpan Kushwaha ia a Yoga expert at Cult) Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
