Published on
Updated
Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Pauline Guillouche (gastroenterologist)
Between tartiflettes and winter viruses, your intestines could suffer some disruption. Find out how to maintain their balance, thanks to the advice of Dr Pauline Guillouche, gastroenterologist.
With the arrival of cold weather and seasonal viruses, winter is a time of year that can have particular consequences on your intestines, especially if they have a fragile balance.
A diet with less fiber
Dr. Pauline Guillouche, gastroenterologist, believes that “compared to summer, in winter we have a diet less rich in fiber. This is particularly due to the fact that during this season, fruits and vegetables are low in fiber and are more like starchy foods. A diet low in fiber can then lead to constipation problems..
The expert adds: “Between raclette, tartiflette and Savoyard fondue, winter specialties contain a significant amount of dairy products. When you eat a little more fat, transit is accelerated and this can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating or even a feeling of heaviness and poor digestion..
As a solution, Doctor Guillouche advises not to neglect fiber, with alternatives such as dried fruits, which contain a lot of it, for example.
Reduced motivation to exercise
In winter, cold and bad weather can easily reduce your motivation to exercise. However, according to the expert: “practicing physical activity is essential to promote intestinal transit”.
She also adds: “In winter, physical activity should not be reduced. You don’t have to stay behind the fireplace all winter! In fact, you can do sports whatever the weather.”
You have no idea? Our expert advises you: “There are alternatives to continue doing sport in winter: exercise cycling, indoor sport, going for a walk in the forest when it’s not raining. This last option is particularly recommended because it promotes oxygenation of the body “.
Faster spread of disease
During the winter season, we more often find ourselves locked in enclosed spaces with people and the contamination of diseases is therefore easier. According to expert Pauline Guillouche: “In winter, we are easily subject to epidemics of viral gastroenteritis which generally occur during this period.. The expert then recommends well-known prevention measures: “Wash yourself properlylies the hands; clean your dishes carefully; and above all avoid going to see sick people“.
Also find other tips for maintaining good transit, even during the winter period!
Slide: 10 tips for taking care of your intestinal transit