Once you cross 40, the body starts sending different signals. Some are louder than others. When it comes to digestion, the difference is often impossible to ignore: slow bowel movement, sudden intolerance to certain foods, stubborn acidity, post-meal bloating that never used to trouble you, and so on.
At Silver Touch Hospitals, we work closely with our highly experienced gastroenterologist in Ahmedabad and see this pattern every day. The good news? These changes are normal, manageable, and, if addressed early, preventable from turning into long-term discomfort.
Let’s understand what shifts inside your gut and how you can take back control.
Why Does Digestion Slow Down After 40
Three things happen around this age:
- Your metabolism slows down.
The food takes longer to break down, and heaviness, acidity, and irregular motion are more likely.
- The gut microbiome shifts
The changes in age, stress, dietary and sleep patterns alter the balance between good and not-so-good bacteria. This results in altered digestion, immunity, and even mood.
- Your production of enzymes decreases
It secretes somewhat fewer digestive enzymes, making it more difficult for the stomach to handle oily food, dairy, or heavy meals, especially at night.
These slow changes eventually manifest as constipation, acid reflux, gas, and sometimes even as food sensitivities that seem entirely new.
Signs Your Gut Is Asking For Attention
We often remind our patients to notice patterns, not panic at symptoms. However, if you notice these signs, know that your gut is asking for attention and you need to visit your nearest Silver Touch Hospitals as fast as possible. The signs are:
- Frequent bloating or gas after regular meals
- Acidity that recurs more than twice a week
- Alternating constipation and loose motion
- A burning sensation or nausea in the morning
- Sudden dislike or intolerance to foods you had enjoyed before
These are not warnings to overhaul your life overnight. They’re cues to fine-tune it.
What Really Works After 40
Begin with small, actionable habits that bring in significant results:
- Eat earlier in the evening, especially heavier meals.
- Add natural fibre: daily vegetables, fruits, whole grains, millets.
- Stay hydrated even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Walk for 10 to 15 minutes after meals; this aids digestion very much.
- Cut random self-medication for acidity or gas; it masks symptoms, doesn’t solve them.
- Sleep on a routine, because your gut and brain work on the same clock.
- Watch your stress; it affects your gut more than most foods do.
These aren’t trends; they’re foundations your digestive system actually responds to.
When Medical Advice Should Be Sought
If gut discomfort is affecting your sleep, work, mood, or appetite, don’t wait it out. Continuous acidity, for unexplained stomach pain, or sudden changes in bowel habits, urge one to give them a closer look. A timely talk with a trusted gastroenterologist in Ahmedabad can make all the difference between early management of a problem and late treatment.
Take The Next Step With Silver Touch Hospitals
Gut health isn’t just about avoiding discomfort; it’s about feeling better in your own body each day. If your gut has been sending signals, we’re here to listen and help you respond the right way.
Schedule an appointment with Silver Touch Hospitals today.