Does transit change with the seasons? In theory no. By maintaining good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle, your transit should not suffer from outdoor weather and seasonality. In practice, it is more complex: many people experience a more complicated trip to the toilet in winter. Constipation that sets in more easily. This trend is not directly due to the cold, but rather to the habits we adopt when the weather is cocooning.
The sedentary side adopted “blocks” us
According to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, the first factor is simply our winter lifestyle. “In winter, we move less. We go out less, we walk less, we do less sport. However, physical activity mechanically stimulates intestinal transit. When we become more sedentary, bowel contractions are less effective, which slows down the evacuation of stools.he explains.
Cold also plays an indirect role: the body favors maintaining heat to the detriment of certain digestive functions, with a reduction in blood flow to the intestine.
The desire to drink escapes us
Another big culprit: hydration. “We drink less in winter because we feel less thirsty, while the body’s needs remain the same.underlines the doctor. Result: dehydration, often discreet but sufficient to harden the stools, making them more difficult to pass.
Menus lower in fiber
Added to this is also a richer and heavier diet. Dishes with sauces, cheeses and refined starchy foods take precedence over fresh fruits and vegetables, naturally rich in fiber. Out of desire but also because the season is less crowded. “But without fiber, transit slows down. It’s a simple equation.” summarizes Dr. Kierzek.
These other seasonal factors to take into account
Other factors sometimes worsen the situation. More frequent consumption of coffee or alcohol, particularly during festive meals, has a diuretic effect which accentuates dehydration. Seasonal stress, fatigue linked to lack of light, or even taking certain common medications in winter (antihistamines, cold treatments) can also disrupt transit.
Don’t let constipation set in
When constipation sets in, the consequences are not trivial. Dr. Kierzek points out that hard and infrequent stools can lead to bloating, abdominal pain, lasting discomfort and promote the appearance of hemorrhoids.
In the longer term, slowed transit can unbalance the intestinal flora, with an impact on immunity, general fatigue and even mood, via the close link between the intestine and the brain. In some people, it can also trigger or worsen irritable bowel syndrome.
Find a light transit, instructions for use
Fortunately, simple solutions often make it possible to get the machine back on track.
- “The basis is to drink enought, even without thirst”insists the doctor. Water, herbal teas, broths: the objective is to reach 1.5 to 2 liters per day;
- On the diet side, he recommendsgradually increase fiber to avoid bloating: root vegetables, oatmeal, dried fruits, prunes, but also kiwis and pears, particularly effective for transit;
- The movement remains a key ally. A daily walk of at least thirty minutes, a few core exercises or abdominal yoga are already enough to stimulate the intestine. “And above all, don’t hold back when the urge arises, even if the toilet is cold,” adds Dr. Kierzek. Meals taken at regular times, slow chewing and digestive herbal teas after meals can also help;
- Finally, if constipation persists despite these measures, the occasional use of laxatives sweet of plant origin can be considered, but always with discernment.
“And in the event of unusual symptoms, significant pain, blood in the stools or in people over 50, you should not hesitate to consult”he concludes.
In winter as in summer, transit deserves to be taken care of.