how seasonal changes affect your gut and what you can do

2 Feb 2025

I

2 mins

Dr. Annewsha Acharjee

Ayurveda @ Lavi

as the seasons change, our bodies adapt to the shifting temperatures, humidity, and daylight hours. but did you know that these changes can also impact our gut health? from the warmer days of summer to the cozy nights of winter, our gut microbiome is influenced by the seasons. let's explore how seasonal changes affect our gut and what we can do to support our gut health throughout the year.

the impact of seasonal changes

during the summer months, our gut microbiome is exposed to a wider variety of fruits and vegetables, which can boost the growth of beneficial bacteria. however, the heat and humidity can also lead to an increase in bad bacteria, causing digestive issues like bloating and diarrhea. 

as we transition into fall, the cooler temperatures and changing leaves can bring about a sense of calm, but the increased sugar intake from holiday treats can disrupt our gut balance. 

winter's colder temperatures can slow down digestion, leading to constipation and other issues. 

and in the spring, the sudden influx of pollen and other allergens can cause inflammation and irritation in the gut.

seasonal gut health tips

so, how can we support our gut health through the seasons? here are some tips:

summer: stay hydrated, eat cooling foods like cucumbers and melons, and incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir.

fall: focus on warm, comforting foods like soups and stews, and be mindful of sugar intake during the holidays.

winter: incorporate gut-soothing foods like ginger and turmeric, and stay active to promote digestion.

spring: support your immune system with vitamin c-rich foods like citrus fruits and leafy greens, and consider a probiotic supplement to combat seasonal allergies.

nutrition and lifestyle adjustments

in addition to these seasonal tips, there are some general nutrition and lifestyle adjustments we can make to support our gut health:

  • eat seasonal produce: focus on locally sourced, seasonal fruits and vegetables to support your gut microbiome.

  • stay hydrated: drink plenty of water throughout the year to keep your gut functioning properly.

  • manage stress: practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation and yoga to minimize gut disruption.

  • get enough sleep: aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to support gut health.

by being mindful of the seasonal changes and making a few simple adjustments to our diet and lifestyle, we can maintain the symphony between our internal and the external environment, supporting our gut health and promoting overall wellness. remember, everybody is different, so listen to your gut and make changes that work for you. at lavi, we follow integrated nutrition science in which we combine modern nutrition science with ayurvedic food concepts and aligning diet to the season and region you’re based in, is one of the key components of our ways of working.

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