Asian Flush (Asian Glow): What It Is, Causes, and Risks
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Time to read 4 min
Introduction
Dyspepsia, or indigestion, is a common digestive issue that causes discomfort in the upper belly.
While it affects millions of people worldwide, many are still unsure about what causes it and how to treat it effectively.
This blog includes what dyspepsia really is, what its symptoms and causes are, and simple diet and lifestyle modifications to help you manage it effectively.
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Understanding Pregnancy Constipation:
Constipation during pregnancy occurs when one experiences fewer than three bowel movements per week, along with symptoms such as hard, dry stools, abdominal discomfort, and a sense of incomplete evacuation.
Many pregnant people often talk about feeling bloated and carrying a lingering heaviness or sensation that can make everyday life feel less comfortable.
# Up to 40% of pregnancies are affected by constipation at some stage, with risk rising in the later trimesters
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Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy:
#1 Growing uterus
In the later months of pregnancy, the expanding uterus puts pressure on the intestines, making the passage of stool difficult
#2 Prenatal vitamins
Iron and calcium supplements, prescribed during pregnancy, can slow bowel movements and harden stool
#3 Reduced physical activity
Fatigue, bed rest, or fear of overexertion often lead to less movement, further decreasing gut motility
#4 Hormonal Influence
Progesterone is a hormone that increases during pregnancy. Its main job is to relax muscles.
When these muscles slow down, food and waste move more slowly through your intestines.
That gives your colon extra time to absorb water from the waste, which can make your stools harder to pass.
Dietary Fiber Strategies to help with Pregnancy Constipation
Aim for 28 grams of dietary fiber per day during pregnancy. Introducing fiber gradually and increasing fluid intake can minimize bloating or cramps
Some rich fiber foods include lentils, chia seeds, avocado, raspberries, pear, broccoli.
Tip: Spread fiber-rich foods throughout the day instead of only in one meal to minimize digestive discomfort. Always pair fiber with adequate water intake.
Being Hydrated also helps with Pregnancy Constipation
Proper hydration keeps stool soft and supports healthy digestion. Dehydration is a common and often-overlooked cause of pregnancy constipation
Include water-rich foods in your meals, like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and berries also support hydration.
Health Risks Associated with Asian Flush:
While the red face may seem like a temporary inconvenience, unchecked alcohol consumption in the face of ALDH2 deficiency poses serious health risks.
#1 Short-Term Risks
- Increased nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
- Elevated heart rate and palpitations
- Impaired judgment and coordination
#2 Long-Term Risks
Heart and blood vessel problems:
Acetaldehyde causes your blood vessels to widen suddenly and stresses the cells that line your arteries. This can push your blood pressure up and encourage fatty deposits to build in vessel walls.
It can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) or clogged arteries (atherosclerosis).
Esophageal Cancer:
When your body can’t break down alcohol properly, a toxic byproduct called acetaldehyde builds up and damages the lining of your esophagus. This damage makes throat and esophagus cancers 6 to 10 times more likely.
Liver Disease:
Constant exposure to acetaldehyde irritates and scars liver cells. This leads to inflammation and fibrous tissue forming inside the liver. Due to this, the liver struggles to cleanse toxins from your blood.
Neurological and Other Effects:
ALDH2 deficiency and persistent acetaldehyde exposure can elevate Alzheimer’s disease risk and other neurodegenerative processes
Struggling with Constipation, Heartburn or Bloating? Checkout our other blogs too!
Managing and Preventing Asian Flush:
# Lifestyle Tips for Asian Flush:
Opt for low-alcohol beverages or diluting drinks with mixers.
Stay well-hydrated, drink water before, during, and after drinking.
Consume food rich in protein and healthy fats to slow alcohol absorption.
Limit total alcohol intake and set clear personal limits.
Pace your drinking: no more than one standard drink per hour.
Key takeaways:
Bulk-forming laxatives (like psyllium) are the safest treatment for constipation and work best when taken with plenty of water.
Osmotic laxatives help soften stools by drawing water into the bowel but may cause bloating or cramping.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is the safest laxative for pregnancy constipation?
Bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium are usually the safest option for constipation during pregnancy.
How much water should I drink with fiber laxatives?
Drink a full glass of water with bulk-forming laxatives to prevent constipation from getting worse
Are stool softeners okay to take daily?
Stool softeners are considered safe for daily use to relieve constipation, especially if you are taking iron supplements.
Can laxatives cause problems if overused?
Yes, overusing stimulant or osmotic laxatives for constipation can lead to cramping, or dehydration.
