A healthy gut is the cornerstone of overall wellbeing, and Dr Gaurav Babar, Consultant Gastroenterologist at KIMS Sreechand Hospital in Kannur, Kerala, says it all starts with lifestyle.

“Gut-related health is extremely important,” he explains. “Fresh food, plenty of water, and regular physical exercise are crucial. Good blood circulation supports healthy digestion, so movement is key.”

Dr Babar warns against overlooking common gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in children. He notes that stomach aches are frequently dismissed by parents as minor complaints or even attempts to avoid school. “But these symptoms shouldn’t be taken lightly,” he cautions. “Abdominal pain in children must be investigated properly to rule out any serious underlying conditions.”

One major concern in today’s diets, particularly among young people, is the consumption of packaged and processed foods. These often contain high FODMAP ingredients — fermentable carbohydrates that can cause bloating, gas, and discomfort. “Children consume too much junk food,” Dr Babar says. “This leads to bloating due to gas formation in the intestine. Reducing the FODMAP content in their diets can significantly help.”

He also points to an often misunderstood issue in newborns: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). “This is common in infants because the muscle between the oesophagus and stomach is not fully developed,” he explains. “It leads to milk coming back up after feeding. Holding the baby upright and gently patting their back allows gravity to assist in moving food through the digestive tract.”

For adults looking to manage obesity, Dr Babar highlights a new minimally invasive option now available at his hospital — intragastric balloon placement. “This is a non-surgical weight loss procedure,” he says. “A balloon is inserted into the stomach and left in place for six months to a year. It reduces hunger and promotes weight loss naturally.”