Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Oct 14: Changing food habits, excessive screen time and reduced outdoor activity may affect children’s gut health, with recurring digestive problems sometimes going unnoticed by parents, according to Dr Ekansh Agarwal, Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Endoscopist at Girish Nursing Home and Endoscopy Centre in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh.
Dr Agarwal emphasises that the gut plays an important role beyond digestion. Microorganisms in the digestive system help break down food, absorb nutrients and protect the body against harmful organisms. Maintaining a healthy balance of these microbes is particularly important during childhood, when the body undergoes significant growth and development.
Frequent consumption of packaged foods and sugary snacks, excessive screen time, inadequate physical activity and limited outdoor play may influence the balance of gut microbes. Frequent or unnecessary use of medicines, particularly antibiotics, can also affect the gut microbiome.
According to Dr Agarwal, parents should pay attention to recurring abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly, changes in bowel habits and reduced appetite. Persistent tiredness, frequent illness, difficulty concentrating and changes in mood may also warrant attention when accompanied by digestive complaints.
These symptoms can have several causes and should not automatically be attributed to gut health. Parents should seek medical advice if symptoms persist, recur frequently or cause concern.
A healthy gut microbiome contributes to digestion, nutrient absorption and immune function. An imbalance may be associated with inflammation and changes in immune responses. Gut health is also linked to areas such as allergies and metabolism, although these relationships are complex and symptoms alone cannot establish a microbiome imbalance.
A balanced diet containing fibre-rich foods can help support gut health. Dr Agarwal recommends including foods such as oats, apples and broccoli, which provide fibre that nourishes beneficial gut bacteria. Yoghurt and certain fermented foods, including sauerkraut, may also provide beneficial microorganisms, depending on their preparation.
Parents are advised to offer children a variety of nutritious foods and limit packaged snacks high in sugar and salt. Antibiotics should be taken only when medically indicated and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as unnecessary use can disrupt the balance of gut microbes.
Besides diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and outdoor play contribute to children's overall well-being. Encouraging children to remain active and follow consistent sleep routines can help establish healthy habits as they grow.
Dr Agarwal stresses that parents should pay attention to recurring digestive symptoms while encouraging balanced eating, regular movement and sufficient rest. Persistent health concerns should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than managed through lifestyle changes alone.