Gastroenterologist named the causes of intestinal disorders in winter

In winter, Russians are more likely to experience constipation and other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract due to changes in diet, reduced physical activity and lack of fluids. Anna Menshchikova, a gastroenterologist at the Atribyut clinic, told Izvestia about this on February 10.

According to the expert, constipation can be associated with various diseases, but in the cold season they most often occur due to lifestyle.

"In winter, people are more likely to choose carbohydrate—rich foods - pastries, pasta, potatoes. These foods are not harmful in themselves, but if there is little fiber in the diet, problems begin. Dietary fiber from vegetables, fruits, and fermented foods acts as a natural "brush" for the intestines, absorbing water and stimulating peristalsis. Suitable winter fiber sources include whole grains, legumes, nuts, dried fruits, and sauerkraut," Menshikova said.

The expert considers a decrease in mobility to be another factor. Due to the weather, people walk less, and a sedentary lifestyle slows down the undulating contractions of the intestines. At least 20-30 minutes of activity a day — walking, swimming, dancing — already help to maintain the normal functioning of the digestive tract.

The water regime also has an additional impact. In the cold season, the feeling of thirst is dulled, and the dry air in heated rooms increases moisture loss. As a result, the intestines actively "take" water from the food lump, and the stool becomes dense.

"It is important to focus on a formula of about 30 ml of liquid per 1 kg of body weight and add another glass of water per day. At a weight of 60 kg, this is at least 1.8 liters, and at least half of it should be pure water," the gastroenterologist emphasized.

As a preventive measure, the specialist recommends reviewing the diet and including foods rich in dietary fiber. In winter, kiwifruit helps well — two fruits a day are considered the gold standard for preventing constipation. They contain the enzyme actinidin, which improves protein digestion, and gently stimulate intestinal motility. Sauerkraut is also useful, which contains natural probiotics to support the microbiome.

The expert also advises not to neglect movement even with a busy schedule: do short warm-ups, get up every hour or two when working sedentary and, if possible, integrate walking into everyday routes. According to her, such habits help not only digestion, but also the general condition of the body.

Menshchikova stressed that with regular stool problems and no effect from lifestyle changes, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Earlier, on January 28, 2025, DDX Fitness fitness trainer Yuri Averyanov recommended that you stop delivering groceries to your home and go shopping on your own. He noted that a low-activity lifestyle has become one of the most common problems of our time, as people spend most of the day sitting at a computer. The fitness trainer reminded that an active lifestyle helps to improve the musculoskeletal system, toning the muscles of the body and delivering the right amount of nutrients to the joints.

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