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Bengaluru: Good digestive health depends not only on food choices but also on daily habits and routines, according to gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, who recently highlighted eight common practices that may gradually affect gut health without obvious warning signs.

Dr Sethi, a California-based specialist trained at AIIMS, Harvard University and Stanford University, shared the observations through a social media post on May 13, explaining that many people unknowingly follow habits that can negatively affect digestion and overall wellbeing.

According to the expert, everyday routines involving eating patterns, hydration, sleep and medication use can significantly influence how the digestive system functions over time.

Screen use during meals may affect eating behaviour

One of the habits highlighted by Dr Sethi was eating while using mobile phones, television screens or other digital devices.

According to him, distractions during meals can interfere with the brain’s ability to properly recognise fullness and satiety signals.

He explained that people who eat while scrolling through phones or watching screens may consume considerably more food than intended because attention shifts away from eating.

Mindful eating practices have increasingly gained attention among health experts because they encourage people to focus on food consumption and recognise hunger and fullness cues more effectively.

Health specialists generally recommend eating without distractions and paying attention to meal portions and eating speed.

Skipping breakfast without planning may create stress

Dr Sethi also warned against randomly skipping breakfast under the belief that doing so automatically qualifies as intermittent fasting.

He explained that intermittent fasting requires structured timing and planning rather than irregular meal skipping.

According to him, unplanned fasting patterns can affect stress- hormones and influence gut movement.

The expert noted that inconsistently skipping meals may affect digestive rhythms and create additional physiological stress for the body.

Intermittent fasting has become increasingly popular in recent years, but healthcare professionals often emphasise that dietary changes should be followed in a structured manner.

Sugar habits and frequent painkiller use may affect gut health

Another concern highlighted by Dr Sethi involved the practice of ending every meal with sweets.

He said excessive sugar consumption may contribute to the growth of unhealthy gut bacteria and increase cravings for sugary foods over time.

Maintaining balanced sugar intake is often considered important in supporting overall digestive health and reducing risks associated with unhealthy eating patterns.

The gastroenterologist also cautioned against frequent use of over-the-counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen for minor discomfort.

He explained that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines could gradually affect the gut lining over time.

Medical experts generally advise using medications appropriately and seeking medical guidance when symptoms become recurrent.

Hydration and bowel habits also play a role

Dr Sethi said hydration patterns can also influence digestive function.

According to him, drinking large quantities of water only at night does not provide the same benefits as maintaining regular hydration throughout the day.

He explained that the digestive system and kidneys require consistent hydration rather than infrequent intake.

The expert also highlighted the importance of responding to natural bowel urges.

Repeatedly delaying bowel movements, according to him, may affect the body’s signalling mechanisms and contribute to long-term constipation.

Digestive specialists often recommend maintaining regular routines and paying attention to bodily signals associated with digestive health.

Constant snacking and late-night eating may disrupt digestion

Dr Sethi additionally advised against continuous snacking between meals.

He explained that the digestive system has natural cleaning mechanisms that function during periods when food is not being consumed.

According to him, constant eating throughout the day may interfere with this process.

Late-night eating was another habit mentioned during his observations.

Dr Sethi stated that eating within an hour before bedtime may interfere with natural processes associated with rest and recovery.

Experts generally suggest maintaining consistent meal schedules and allowing sufficient time between the last meal and sleep.

Health specialists note that habits such as balanced eating patterns, adequate hydration, regular physical activity and mindful eating can collectively contribute to improved digestive health and overall wellbeing.