Why Is Your Stomach Hurting More as You Age?

As the years pass, many of us face strange and frustrating bodily changes—like noisy joints and rapid hangovers—even our stomachs start to betray us! Why does digestion become so troublesome with age?

Dr. Sara Attalla, a gastroenterologist at Inspira Health in New Jersey, emphasizes that intestinal problems can occur at any age, but they become increasingly common as we get older. According to the National Institutes of Health, 60 to 70 million Americans suffer from digestive diseases.

The Aging Digestive System: What’s Going Wrong?

As we age, the nerves and muscles lining our gastrointestinal (GI) tract begin to falter, leading to a slackening in how our digestive system operates. This can result in sluggish digestion and miscommunication between organs, causing issues like acid reflux and indigestion.

Not only does the stomach lining thin out, making it vulnerable to injury, but decreased production of protective substances also leaves us more prone to gastritis and ulcers.

In addition, slower motility in the small intestine can encourage harmful bacterial overgrowth, while a sluggish colon can lead to chronic constipation and diverticulosis, which brings its own flare-ups.

The Impact of Chronic Illness and Medications

Chronic health issues that become more prevalent with age—such as arthritis and heart disease—can further limit our ability to stay active, exacerbating gut problems. Many medications, especially NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen, also carry painful side effects, disrupting the digestive process.

Expert Tips for Maintaining Digestive Health as You Age

Fear not! Experts offer several strategies to help keep your stomach happy and healthy:

1. Chew Thoroughly!

Better digestion starts in your mouth! Chewing well enhances salivary enzyme action, easing the GI tract's workload and helping neutralize acid, which can alleviate symptoms of reflux. Chop those meals into smaller bits and chew every bite 15-20 times.

2. Boost Saliva Production

As we age, saliva production declines, causing dryness that complicates eating. Consider using saliva substitutes or sipping water between bites to aid in swallowing.

3. Choose Whole, Plant-Based Foods

Opt for a diet rich in plant-based ingredients while minimizing processed foods. This will help keep your gut microbiome balanced and increase your fiber intake, critical for smooth digestion.

4. Stay Hydrated!

Hydration is key to avoid constipation! Aim for about one-third of your body weight in fluid ounces each day. So, if you're 150 pounds, that means 50 ounces of fluid.

5. Get Moving!

Exercise encourages GI motility. After meals, try a 15-minute walk to stimulate your stomach and help with digestion.

6. Prioritize Sleep

Quality sleep is vital! Aim for seven to nine hours each night; it can significantly improve gut health and immunity.

7. Be Smart with Medications

All medications can cause side effects. Always follow your doctor's guidance on when and how to take your meds to minimize digestive issues.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice persistent changes in bowel habits, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, or if you find blood in your stool, consult with a gastroenterologist. Your symptoms might indicate a more serious issue.

Staying proactive about your gut health can make a monumental difference. Let's face it—aging might not be easy, but with some smart choices, we can make it a lot more comfortable!