The gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” plays a vital role in our overall health and wellbeing. However, in recent years, India has witnessed a disturbing trend,a significant rise in gut health issues. From irritable bowel syndrome to inflammatory bowel disease, the numbers are alarming. But what’s driving this surge? Let’s explore the underlying causes and expert insights behind India’s growing gut health crisis with DrSaurabh Argal, Consultant – Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi.
Dr Argal said, “Once considered a Western disorder, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is witnessing a steady rise, disrupting both personal lives and productivity. According to the studies conducted by Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2,70,719 cases of IBD have been reported in India. This spikes the need for urgent attention to gut health through improved awareness, early diagnosis, and timely treatment.”
What Is IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a term used for a group of conditions that cause swelling and inflammation of tissues in the digestive tract the two main types of IBD are Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. In Ulcerative Colitis, inflammation leads to the formation of ulcers along the inner lining of the colon and rectum, which usually results in symptoms such as bloody stools and stomach pain. Crohn’s disease, on the other hand, causes inflammation of the digestive system lining, which often affects the small intestine but can also affect the large intestine and, in some cases, the entire gastrointestinal tract. Both disorders can cause substantial problems which may be due to factors such as:
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- Dietary changes: One of the main reasons of the rise in IBD is the shift away from traditional Indian cuisine to highly processed, high-fat, and low-fibre diets of the West. These diets are particularly low in all the gut-friendly nutrients of Indian diet and lead to inflammation in the gut.
- Microbiome Health: There are trillions of microorganisms in the human gut that help with digestion and supporting the immune system. Overuse of antibiotics, junk food, and low-fibre diets kill off beneficial microorganisms leading to gut bacteria being unbalanced. This further provokes chronic gut inflammation.
- Stress and mental health: There is a strong correlation between psychological stress and gut dysfunction. Academic and work-related stress levels are on the rise, given today’s fast-paced environment. Gut inflammation due to stress is now more common.
- Genetics and Environment: While IBD has a genetic component, current research suggests that environmental triggers like air pollution or reduced exposure to infections in early childhood can also be potential contributors to its increase.
What Are The Symptoms To Look Out For?
There are various symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that should not be ignored. If you have continuous lower abdomen pain that feels like stomach cramps, detect blood in your stool, or experience unexplained weakness, you may be suffering from a more serious digestive problem. Sudden, weight loss and a frequent urge to use the bathroom are also the red flags. Many people with IBD experience persistent diarrhea, which can involve blood or mucus.
India’s increase in IBD patients is more than a medical trend; it’s a wake-up call. Our gut health is essential for overall health which can depend on the choices we make every day. If detected timely, the condition can be easily treated through lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery in extreme cases. Procedures like Colectomy and Proctocolectomy for the removal of the colon and rectum are commonly utilised to treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease. If the symptoms last for more than a few weeks, it becomes important to see a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis.