Eight Everyday Habits That May Affect Gut Health

Your gut helps digest food and is affected by more than just what you eat.

Eating while looking at a screen may make it harder to notice when you are full.

Eating at irregular times or constantly snacking may disturb normal digestion for some people.

Ignoring the need to use the toilet repeatedly can contribute to constipation.

Taking medicines such as ibuprofen often can harm the stomach lining.

Eating right before lying down can make acid reflux more likely.

Skipping breakfast is not automatically bad if your meals are otherwise regular and nutritious.

Drinking most of your water at night is considered more of a sleep problem than a gut problem.

Try eating on a schedule and stopping meals two to three hours before bed.

See a health professional for ongoing constipation, pain, frequent reflux, blood in stool or unexplained weight loss.