Modern science also supports through various studies that the saying 'when the belly is cold, digestion fails' is not merely an old phrase. Our bodies are connected far more delicately than we think. In particular, the effect of abdominal cold syndrome on digestion is deeply related to complex biological systems.
First, the most important factor is the role of the autonomic nervous system. Inside our bodies, the parasympathetic nerve responsible for digestion and the sympathetic nerve that responds to stressful situations maintain a balance. However, when the abdomen becomes cold, the body perceives this as a kind of 'stress' situation. It is just like our bodies hunching and tensing up when it is cold. When this happens, our body prioritizes supplying energy to other vital functions, such as maintaining body temperature and muscle activity, rather than digestive function for survival. The sympathetic nerve is stimulated, and the activity of the parasympathetic nerve responsible for digestion is suppressed. As a result, intestinal peristalsis slows down, the secretion of digestive enzymes decreases, the time food stays in the stomach and intestines lengthens, and bloating and discomfort intensify.
Second, the temperature of the abdomen directly affects the activity of digestive enzymes. Most enzymes in our body work most efficiently within a specific temperature range, and the same is true for digestive enzymes. When the abdomen becomes cold, the temperature within the gastrointestinal tract can drop even slightly, and this reduces the function of digestive enzymes, making the breakdown of protein, carbohydrates, and lipolysis difficult. Think about it: food inside a refrigerator does not cook well, does it? Our gastrointestinal tract can also perform its proper function in a warm environment.
Third, it can also adversely affect the gut microbiota environment. Gut health is crucial not only for immunity but also for digestive function, and beneficial bacteria are most active within a specific temperature range. Abdominal cold syndrome can disrupt this balance of gut microbiota and create an environment where harmful bacteria are prone to proliferate. This can cause various digestive problems such as gas production, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea.
Lastly, the connection with the gut-brain axis cannot be overlooked. The unpleasant sensation of a cold abdomen and poor digestion is transmitted to the brain, compounding stress and anxiety, which can create a vicious cycle that further worsens intestinal function. In addition, chronic abdominal cold syndrome can sensitize the sensory nerves of the intestine, worsening the symptoms of functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. In fact, among people with low body temperature or patients complaining of abdominal cold syndrome, there are many cases where they experience chronic dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. There are simply too many systems connected to brush it off as merely having a cold belly. Now, the reasons why you need to keep your abdomen warm make complete sense, right?
