[Reading Health] Stomach Growling Without Hunger... Stress Warning Sign

Illustration=Asia Economy DB

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Han Mo (34), an office worker, visited a hospital because his stomach made rumbling sounds incessantly. He thought it might be enteritis and underwent tests, but no abnormalities were found. Even after visiting the hospital, he frequently experiences abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, which is frustrating.

If you have symptoms similar to Han’s, you should consider irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is one of the chronic functional gastrointestinal disorders. Various tests such as colonoscopy show no specific disease, but it is accompanied by abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits such as constipation. It is a common condition regardless of race, age, or gender, and it is reported that about 7-8% of the global population suffers from it.

The exact cause is unknown, but it is presumed that abnormal intestinal motility, stress, and spicy foods influence it. Previously, it mainly occurred in people in their 40s to 60s, but recently it has been spreading across all age groups. Professor Park Jae-woo of Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital explained, "From the teenage years when students start their studies in earnest, they experience stress and gradually adopt a Westernized diet, which may be the cause."

To prevent irritable bowel syndrome, it is necessary to reduce stress and improve lifestyle habits. Especially since symptoms are more likely to appear when the intestines are cold, keeping the abdomen warm is important. It is better to drink warm coffee instead of iced coffee and to drink lukewarm water instead of cold water directly.

Consuming foods like yam and kelp is also a method. Yam helps restore digestive function impaired by gastrointestinal symptoms and improves diarrhea symptoms. Kelp, which is rich in fiber, is effective for constipation and swelling and also reduces inflammation.

Abdominal massage is also helpful. Professor Park said, "When you have abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea, gently pressing the abdomen can help ease discomfort."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.