Digestive problems after fifty: what are the causes?
Poor diet and lifestyle habits, aging of the digestive system… Many people experience digestive problems as they get older. However, there are simple remedies.
Digestive problems can appear at any age. But more than 40% of people over 50 experience one or more age-related digestive problems every year. There are several reasons for this.1
The main reasons for digestive problems
As you get older, your digestive system also ages, just like the rest of your body. The stomach, in particular, functions less well. The lining becomes more fragile, increasing the risk of stomach ulcers. The intestines become lazier, resulting in slower transit. From a certain age, the microbiota—the collection of bacteria that make up the gut flora—also changes. In seniors, we mainly see a general loss of diversity, with a significant decrease in certain bacteria such as bifidobacteria. At the same time, however, there is an increase in other potentially harmful bacteria. This altered bacterial diversity entails a change in the metabolic activity of the microbiota (such as a lower production of short-chain fatty acids, leading to a change in gut pH). This, in turn, has an impact on gastrointestinal well-being.1,2
A healthy diet, physical activity, and proper medical follow-up contribute to the good functioning of your digestive system!
Digestive problems: external factors
In addition to the digestive system itself, external factors also play a role in gastrointestinal disorders in people over 50.
- Poor nutrition can lead to iron and vitamin deficiencies, insufficient fiber, overweight, and many health problems… All of this can entail digestive problems. Certain nutrients and poor hydration can also cause or worsen digestive problems.
- A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity slow down your metabolism. This also goes hand in hand with an increased risk of overweight, which in itself can lead to digestive disorders.
- Finally, certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are also associated with an increased risk of stomach ulcers. Medication for osteoarthritis and diabetes can lead to nausea, diarrhea, bloating, etc. Even common medications can cause constipation!1,3
Remedies for gastrointestinal problems?
Good digestion starts with good nutrition. So, choose a healthy diet: eat more unprocessed food, fruit, vegetables, beans, and drink more water. Don't forget fiber either. Women over 50 should eat 21 grams of fiber every day, and men 30 grams. Eat as little fat, salt, and sugar as possible. Avoid foods that promote stomach acid or reflux. If you suspect a food allergy or intolerance, it is best to ask your doctor to test you for it.1,4
If you eat healthily, you give your microbiota a boost
From the age of fifty, make sure you get enough B vitamins, vitamin D, and iron. In addition to a sufficient amount of fiber, it is also important to vary that fiber intake. This way, you will be less likely to suffer from constipation and your declining gut microbiota will function as well as possible.2 Probiotics, either in the form of supplements or via fortified foods (e.g., yogurt), are a good choice for a balanced diet. Beneficial probiotic bacteria ensure an increase in the non-harmful microbes in the intestines and better immunity.2 Moreover, certain dietary supplements ensure smoother transit and good digestion.3,4
Combat digestive problems with good lifestyle habits
Take care of yourself and keep a close eye on your health: talk to a doctor about your symptoms, discuss your medication with them, and carry out the recommended screening tests.1,3,4
And finally, exercise to tackle overweight, to support your digestive system well, and also for better absorption of nutrients!1,3,4 You can find tips (that really work) on our blog. There is certainly something that can be done about digestive problems that appear after fifty. With good lifestyle habits, you can usually get rid of a lot of discomfort!
Scientific references
Product mentioned in this article
Fit-O-Trans Forte
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