Gut Check: What You Need to Know About Stomach Health
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Jul 28
- 5 min read
You know the feeling: your stomach suddenly acts up, you feel uncomfortably bloated, or you’re making frequent trips to the bathroom. It’s more common than you think! While many gut issues are common, they’re often brushed aside or self-medicated without a second thought. But when is a tummy ache just a passing problem, and when is it your body asking for help?
To shed light on this essential but often misunderstood topic, we sat down with Dr. Ryan Bries, a Gastroenterologist with Doctor Anywhere, to talk about what really goes on in our digestive systems, the biggest gut health myths, and how Filipinos can protect their stomachs from common problems.
Common Stomach Problems
When asked about the most frequent complaints he hears from Filipino patients, Dr. Ryan shared, “Very common is hyperacidity, which can be gastritis or GERD (acid reflux). It’s usually triggered by the food we eat, stress, irregular meals, or too much spicy or fatty food, or even coffee.”
Other issues he frequently encounters include:
Diarrhea or acute gastroenteritis, usually caused by contaminated food (viral or bacterial).
Constipation, especially among older adults, is often due to a low-fiber diet and lack of physical activity.
Ulcers, typically caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or pain relievers like ibuprofen or mefenamic acid.
And irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is often worsened by stress and certain foods.
Watch Out: Signs of Food-Borne Illnesses
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), foodborne illnesses are a global public health concern, affecting millions each year. And in the Philippines, where food safety practices may vary, the risk is especially present.
Dr. Ryan explained, “People will experience diarrhea—sometimes watery, or worse, bloody. They may also feel stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or fever. In some cases, patients feel body weakness or muscle cramps, which are signs of dehydration.”
Symptoms can start within hours or take a couple of days to show, depending on what caused the illness.
Foods That May Trigger or Worsen Gut Issues
Certain foods, even everyday staples, can be tough on the stomach.
“Fatty or fried foods worsen acid reflux and diarrhea,” said Dr. Ryan. “Caffeinated drinks like coffee, energy drinks, and milk tea stimulate acid production. Spicy food can irritate sensitive stomachs, and dairy can cause bloating and diarrhea, especially since many Filipinos are lactose intolerant.”
When experiencing diarrhea or a stomach upset, Dr. Ryan recommends following the BRAT diet. “That’s Banana, Rice, Apple sauce, and Toast. These are bland foods that are gentle on the stomach. Also, eat small, frequent meals rather than large, heavy ones.”
When Should You See a Doctor for Gut Problems?
It’s easy to pop an antacid and move on, but Dr. Ryan cautions against ignoring persistent or severe symptoms:
“You should seek medical help if your stomach pain lasts more than a few hours and doesn’t improve with meds like Gaviscon or Buscopan; if you have diarrhea for more than two days, especially if it’s bloody; high fever; or if you feel weak, dizzy, or unable to keep liquids down. Those are signs of dehydration.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dehydration from diarrhea can be serious and even life-threatening, especially in children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Gut Health Myths: Busted
We also took time to debunk some common gut health myths with Dr. Ryan:
1. Spicy food causes ulcers
“That’s not true. Ulcers are mainly caused by H. pylori infection or pain reliever use like NSAIDs. Spicy food may worsen the pain but doesn’t cause ulcers.”
2. You need to cut out dairy to avoid irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
“Not all IBS patients are lactose intolerant. It’s about identifying your trigger. I recommend using a low-FODMAP diet to figure that out, not cutting dairy completely right away.”
3. Prebiotics and probiotics work instantly
“They don’t give immediate relief. They help improve gut health over time—weeks, not hours.”
A Healthy Gut = A Healthier You
Your digestive system isn’t just where your food goes; it’s where your health begins. As research shows, gut health is closely linked to your immunity, mental health, and overall well-being.
If you're experiencing any gut-related issues or have questions about your digestive health, you may video consult a licensed doctor through the Doctor Anywhere app. Our general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, including gastroenterologists, all from the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Bries, Ryan. Interviewed on 28 April 2025.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Ryan Bries is a Gastroenterologist at Doctor Anywhere Philippines. He also practices at Fe Del Mundo Medical Center. Dr. Bries earned his medical degree from University of Santo Tomas and has been a licensed physician since 2015. Dr. Bries is board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, bringing specialized expertise in digestive health and comprehensive internal medicine care to his patients.
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