Aging Process Linked to Increased Digestive Issues Among Americans
As individuals age, they often experience a decline in digestive efficiency, leading to a range of gastrointestinal issues. According to Dr. Sara Attalla, a gastroenterologist at Inspira Health in New Jersey, intestinal problems can become more prevalent with age. The National Institutes of Health reports that 60 to 70 million Americans are affected by digestive diseases, with common symptoms including heartburn, bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits. Aging can cause the nerves and muscles in the gastrointestinal tract to malfunction, resulting in sluggish digestion and uncoordinated communication between digestive organs. This can lead to conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastritis, and ulcers. Additionally, chronic health conditions and medications can exacerbate these issues, causing side effects like nausea and constipation.