Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir asserted that he would emerge as a "kingmaker" after the 2026 assembly elections in West Bengal, claiming that no government could be formed without the support of his proposed new political outfit
How Winter Pollution Affects Your Gut Health And What You Can Do About It
How Winter Pollution Affects Your Gut Health And What You Can Do About It
As winter sets in, most of us expect dry skin, scratchy throats, or a slight dip in energy. But what often catches people off guard is the sudden surge in bloating, acidity, sluggish digestion, and unexplained fatigue. While comfort foods and reduced physical activity are easy to blame, the real disruptor may be something we rarely consider: pollution. Winter air traps more toxins, and those pollutants don't just harm the lungs – they travel deeper, influencing the gut in ways that can quietly derail overall health.
“Winter is the season when gut health and pollution collide," says Dr. Arpit Bansal, Laparoscopic Cancer Surgeon & Gut–Longevity Specialist. He explains that lower temperatures worsen air quality and push the body into a subtle ‘Red Mind' – a state of heightened inflammation and reduced resilience. Fine particulate matter, he notes, affects the gut microbiome directly, increasing oxidative stress while slowing digestion.
Echoing this, Dr. Deepakkumar Gupta, Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai, adds that winter pollution is an underestimated trigger for digestive distress. “Fine particulate matter and airborne toxins don't just irritate the respiratory system, they also disturb the gut environment," he says. These pollutants weaken the intestinal lining, alter gut bacteria, and heighten inflammation, making reflux, IBS, or bloating significantly worse.
Dr. Bansal further points out that polluted water in winter increases these problems, often pushing individuals with sensitive digestion into frequent flare-ups.
When the air gets colder, the body instinctively shifts into ‘energy-conserving' mode, slowing down some metabolic processes. Combine this with trapped pollutants, lower hydration, comfort-heavy eating, reduced movement, and longer indoor hours, and the gut microbiome becomes more sensitive than usual.
Particulate matter can enter the digestive system through both inhalation and food, subtly disrupting the gut's bacterial balance. This imbalance triggers:
For people who already have reflux, IBS, gastritis, or a sensitive stomach, winter pollution can turn routine symptoms into persistent discomfort.
According to Dr. Bansal, shifting the body into a ‘Blue Mind' – a state of calm, intentional nourishment, and restored balance is key to supporting digestion in colder months. This includes:
Swipe Left For Next Video
Gut health in winter is far more complex than just festive indulgence. Colder air, pollution, disrupted microbiome balance, and seasonal stress create the perfect storm for digestive trouble. With the right habits, nourishment, and awareness, your gut can become your strongest defence system through the season by helping your body stay resilient, energised, and balanced despite the environmental challenges.
Source: News18
Related Posts: Face moisturisers for dry skin Struggling With Dry And Dull Skin Try these lip care products to treat dry and chapped lips this winter Ophthalmologist shares what to eat to prevent dry eyes in winter Winter Heaters Causing Dry Nose And Eyes Apollo Hospital dermatologist suggests 7 ways to manage winter skin flare-ups 5 body oils you need to have this winter season for smooth skin Cozy Women’s Winter Nightwear Sets to Buy on Amazon Cold Weather, Dry Eyes Best Dry Irons On Amazon For Effortless Pressing And Smooth Clothing Finish
Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir asserted that he would emerge as a "kingmaker" after the 2026 assembly elections in West Bengal, claiming that no government could be formed without the support of his proposed new political outfit
3 months ago
