May 29 World Digestive Health Day Protecting gut health this Eid-ul-Azha

EVERY year on 29 May, the world observes World Digestive Health Day to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive system. This year, the message carries special relevance for Pakistan as Eid-ul-Azha approaches, a time when families gather, celebrations increase, and meat consumption rises significantly. While enjoying festive meals is part of the occasion, moderation and healthy habits are essential to protect digestive health. The digestive system plays a central role in overall well-being. It helps the body process food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste efficiently. Poor digestive health can lead to discomfort, fatigue, reduced immunity, and more serious health complications if ignored. In Pakistan, digestive problems are increasingly common due to unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, stress, self-medication, and poor hygiene practices. Conditions such as acidity, indigestion, constipation, bloating, gastrointestinal infections, and liver-related illnesses affect many people. During Eid-ul-Azha, these issues often become more noticeable as people consume excessive quantities of red meat, rich oily foods, sugary drinks, and irregular meals over several days. While meat is an important source of protein, iron, and essential nutrients, overconsumption can burden the digestive system, especially when combined with fried foods and low water intake. Eating large portions at one time may lead to indigestion, acidity, constipation, and stomach discomfort. Individuals with existing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, or digestive disorders should be particularly cautious. Food safety is equally important during Eid. Improper meat handling, unhygienic preparation, and inadequate storage can increase the risk of foodborne illness. In warm weather, meat left unrefrigerated for extended periods can quickly become unsafe. Proper handwashing, safe cooking practices, and clean water are essential to prevent stomach infections,