Understanding Your Digestive System as You Age
Our bodies are incredible, and they go through many natural changes as we journey through life. Just as our joints may feel a bit stiffer in the morning or our skin becomes more delicate, our digestive system also evolves. Understanding these changes can help you better interpret what you’re feeling.
As we get older, several things can happen inside. The muscles in the digestive tract might move a bit more slowly, which can sometimes lead to constipation or a feeling of sluggishness. The stomach may also produce less acid. While this might sound like a good thing, stomach acid is crucial for breaking down food and killing harmful bacteria. A decrease in acid can sometimes affect how we absorb nutrients and can even change the balance of microbes in our gut.
These age-related shifts are why issues like acid reflux, gas, and general indigestion can become more frequent visitors. It’s a normal part of the aging process for many. However, this new “normal” can sometimes make it tricky to spot a real problem. When you’re used to some level of discomfort, it’s easy to brush off a new or persistent symptom as just another part of getting older.
The key is to pay attention to what is normal for you and to notice when something feels different. Is the discomfort more frequent? Is it more intense? Does it feel unlike any indigestion you’ve had before? This awareness is the first step in advocating for your health. Recognizing the difference between indigestion and stomach cancer seniors might worry about starts with knowing your body’s typical patterns.
