Traveling at high altitude? Here’s why it upsets your stomach and what to do

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): People are heading to the mountains and high altitudes for the New Year. However, traveling to high altitudes often causes stomach upset. The main reason for this is hypoxia, or lack of oxygen.

At high altitudes, the vagus nerve slows down digestion, leading to gas and bloating. The cold further slows digestion. Travel also impacts the microbiome. Celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija offers important advice for those traveling to high altitudes.

Nutritionists explain that high altitudes don't just cause bloating, but also overall stomach upset. The main cause is hypoxia, a lack of oxygen, which affects the body's nervous system and also impairs digestion.

Citing a study, he said that hypoxia slows down GI motility, i.e., the movement of the intestines, and changes digestion.

Hypoxia at high altitude causes the vagus nerve to function poorly. The vagus nerve controls digestion, but lack of oxygen impairs it. As a result, intestinal motility slows, enzymes are not released properly, and the stomach empties late. This increases gas, bloating, and discomfort. Additionally, the cold weather at high altitude activates the sympathetic nervous system, which is in "fight or flight" mode. This mode forces the body to conserve energy, further slowing digestion.

According to experts, it's not just a problem with air pressure; the entire nervous system goes into energy conservation mode. Travel also impacts the gut microbiome, which is the balance of gut bacteria. This effect is exacerbated at high altitude, which can lead to serious digestive problems.

Nutritionists recommend preparing your stomach just as thoughtfully as you do before packing your suitcase. Eat light meals before your trip, stay hydrated, and choose meals or snacks that support digestion.