Overeating at the end of the year can cause health problems

Published 12/19/2021 08:00

The festive periods at the end of the year are remembered as a period of excess in all aspects, from spending on gifts, new clothes to parties and of course with food, as it is a time for dinners, get-togethers and traditional dishes. Although it is a moment that contains positive points, such as reunions with loved ones and celebrations, this series of exaggerations can raise many problems, physical, emotional and financial, and can present long-term risks.

Bernardo Martins, MD, a gastroenterologist at Santa Lucia Norte Hospital, explains that the main health problems from overeating are abdominal pain and bloating, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, as well as the possibility of causing reflux, gastritis, heartburn and heartburn (feeling tired). burning) and other annoyances. He maintains that overscheduling causes consequences and, if it continues, can lead to mass gains and a tendency to develop cardiovascular disease.

Another danger is associated with the excessive use of salt and lack of water, with the high consumption of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, which can cause a series of problems, ranging from headaches to a possible increase in pressure and fluid retention.

stomach problems

With year-end excesses, there is a potential for exacerbation of existing diseases or those to which the individual is prone, such as kidney stones, gallstones, and other infections. Gastroenterologist Bernardo Martins stresses the importance of maintaining balance, even during festive periods, since it is also possible to prevent dysbacteriosis – an imbalance of the intestinal flora, which can be caused by excess sugars, fats and even the use of medications without the need for appropriate medications. Signal.

If change occurs, in most cases recovery occurs naturally, with fiber consumption and healthy eating. “Once you restore your eating routine, the body goes back to how it was before,” the doctor explains.

However, there are cases that require specialized monitoring, which may include antibiotics to control pathogenic bacteria and probiotics to grow the good bacteria that make up the intestinal flora.

Gynecological risks

In addition to stomach problems, which are stimulated by exaggeration and lack of control, a series of female problems can appear, focusing on candidiasis, which is a fungal infection. Gynecologist Erica France explains that the disease is related to vaginal acidity, which, when the pH drops, helps the fungi to multiply.

One factor responsible for this change is fermented foods, such as alcohol, simple carbohydrates and sugars in general, which make the environment more acidic. Erica explains that simple consumption of food does not cause illness, but if the immune system and intestines are damaged, they can trigger the onset of illness.

In addition, milk and dairy products can lead to an imbalance in the vaginal environment due to inflammation of the intestine – an unbalanced intestinal flora leads to an increase in mucus and creates an ideal environment for the fungus Candida. “If there are foods that cause inflammation in the intestinal mucosa, that is, if they modify the permeability of substances and toxins, then the wrong preference for bacteria is facilitated, if this makes the environment more acidic,” explains the gynecologist.

However, the recommendation is not a complete restriction of sweets and alcohol, but moderation is an important ally at this time, associated with the consumption of foods that promote a good bowel habit, such as those containing fiber. Foods containing whole grains, such as cereals and cereals, as well as natural yogurt, fruits, vegetables and vegetables are welcome. In other words, a balanced and complete diet, which also supports the immune system, which is important for people with candidiasis.

Anxiety and mental health

Another important point when it comes to year-end excesses is that a change in bacteria can also affect the production of tryptophan, the precursor to serotonin, which is responsible for promoting a sense of happiness and well-being. For many, the end of the year is a time that brings with it a series of fears, doubts and anxieties. Therefore, psychologist Rosana Lima recommends therapeutic follow-up, because even if there are common feelings, each of them has individual characteristics that can be properly monitored by professionals.

One of the most mind-blowing thoughts during this period is the feeling of not fulfilling all the resolutions of the year that is over, especially with the constant communication with social media, which can reveal unrealistic facts, depending on who the person is following. . “On social networks, we end up creating models that are, at times, unworkable. And if the models that are followed are very different from a personal one, I will feel, yes, dissatisfied,” Rosana points out.

Setting realistic goals can help you deal with this period. But the psychologist warns that the inertia of goals for the whole year may not be pleasant, since there are many changes in this period of time, which are out of control and out of any planning. Therefore, the goals that are restricted in the first three months can be effective and objective, because the reality is closer to the present moment.

general recommendations

In this time of exaggeration, basic care is always interesting to help treat as well as prevent potential damage. Balance is key in nutrition, according to gastroenterologist Bernardo Martins, there should be neither long fasting nor excessive consumption. Restful sleep and hydration are relevant to keeping mental and physiological functions working well.

expert word

What are the most common types of exaggeration?

They can be divided into two types of exaggeration: subtle and chronic. A due date is when there is an excessive episode, which can occur through commemorative dates, such as birthdays, holidays, and travel. On the other hand, chronic exaggeration is a habit, beyond that specific moment, that lasts for weeks, months, and even years. Both lead to changes in the body, at different levels.

What are the nutritional recommendations for this period?

It is important to pay attention to the balance of the nutritional composition. Don’t go overboard with fatty foods, or in any particular group, like limiting yourself to only protein, for example. And of course try to eat fruits and vegetables in the meantime. Remember the salad that helps in the formation of dietary fiber to maintain the intestinal flora. And for those who suffer from intolerance and sensitivity and sensitivities to maintain deprivation and control during the celebrations as well.

How can this period be used without serious consequences later?

To maintain balance, we should always try to cultivate healthy habits and mediate excesses. So, pay attention to sleep, do not deprive it too much, rest your body and do not leave water aside, because food and drink in excess cause us to drink a lot of liquids with high concentrations of sodium, such as soft drinks, flavored. Water and alcoholic beverages. All this makes us forget about hydrating the body, which needs mineral water.

Bernardo Martins is a gastroenterologist at Santa Lucia Norte Hospital

* Trainee under the supervision of Sybil Negromonte