Why does the stomach get upset while traveling at high altitude? prepare yourself before the trip
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): With the New Year holidays, many people are planning trips to hills and high-altitude destinations. However, stomach problems are common during travel to higher elevations. The main reason behind this is hypoxia, a condition caused by reduced oxygen levels at high altitude.
At higher altitudes, the vagus nerve does not function properly, which slows down digestion. This leads to gas formation, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Cold weather further worsens digestion. Travel-related changes also affect the gut microbiome, increasing digestive discomfort. Celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija has shared important advice for people traveling to high-altitude regions.
According to the nutrition expert, high altitude does not just cause bloating but can disturb the entire digestive system. Hypoxia affects the nervous system, which in turn impacts digestion. Studies suggest that low oxygen levels slow down gastrointestinal motility, altering the digestive process.
As altitude increases, lack of oxygen weakens the vagus nerve, which controls digestion. Due to this, intestinal movement becomes sluggish, digestive enzymes are not released properly, and the stomach takes longer to empty. This results in gas, bloating, and discomfort. In addition, cold weather at higher altitudes activates the sympathetic nervous system, putting the body into “fight or flight” mode, which further slows digestion to conserve energy.
Experts explain that this is not just an air pressure issue; the entire nervous system shifts into energy-saving mode. Travel also disrupts the gut microbiome, the balance of good bacteria in the stomach, and this effect becomes stronger at high altitude, making digestive issues more severe.
Nutritionists advise that just as you plan carefully before packing your suitcase, you should also prepare your stomach before traveling. Eat light meals before the journey, stay well-hydrated, and choose foods and snacks that support digestion.