Many people say that eating spicy food in cold weather can easily lead to reflux or stomach pain. Is this true or false? (Truc, 30 years old, Hanoi ).
Reply:
Gastroesophageal reflux is the phenomenon of gastric juice flowing back from the stomach into the esophagus. This is a health problem that many people encounter. This condition increases in cold weather because cold weather stimulates histamine levels in the blood to increase, increasing the secretion of stomach acid, causing the stomach to contract strongly.
In addition, unscientific diets such as eating spicy foods and smoking to warm the body also increase the risk of reflux. When it is cold, resistance is also reduced, so people with a history of gastroesophageal reflux are prone to relapse.
To prevent acid reflux, you should eat regularly and scientifically, dividing your meals into smaller portions so that your body can absorb them well. Avoid overeating or letting your stomach get too hungry. Limit eating hot, sour, and spicy foods. Do not lie down or exercise vigorously immediately after eating.
Get proper rest and limit staying up late. Stay away from cigarette smoke, stimulants, alcohol, beer... which affect cardiovascular health, digestive and respiratory systems.
Pay attention to keeping your body warm, especially your abdomen and neck. Exercise to improve your resistance and increase your ability to adapt to changes in the weather. Be careful not to exercise early in the morning or go out in the cold weather suddenly to prevent stroke, especially for the elderly or people with a history of stroke.
In case of severe reflux, you should see a doctor for prescription, treatment, and to improve your quality of life.
Dr. Ha Hai Nam
Deputy Head of Department of Abdominal Surgery 1, Central Cancer Hospital.
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