Stomach and Intestine Day (Ichō no Hi)

What Is Stomach and Intestine Day?

December 11 is "Stomach and Intestine Day," established in 2002 by the Japan Self-Medication Industry Association (now the Japan OTC Drug Association) based on a Japanese wordplay: 12/11 can be read "i-ni-ii," meaning "good for the stomach." The aim is to promote the proper use of stomach medicines and the importance of looking after digestive health — a timely reminder in a season full of year-end parties and dining out.

Why Your Stomach Suffers at Year-End

• Overeating and overdrinking: Alcohol, rich food, and overeating during the year-end party season strain the digestive system
• Stress: End-of-year work pressure and social fatigue disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to stomach trouble
• Lack of sleep: Staying up late hinders digestive recovery
• Cold weather: Some people find their stomach gets upset when their body gets chilled

Tips for Eating Gently on Your Stomach

• Chew thoroughly: Aim for about 30 chews per bite—saliva's amylase aids digestion
• Warm food and drinks: Avoid too many cold foods and drinks and keep your stomach warm
• Fermented foods: Include natto, miso, yogurt, pickles, and the like in your meals
• Dietary fiber: Vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed support intestinal peristalsis
• The morning after drinking: Choose easy-to-digest foods like soup, rice porridge, or udon

Signs You Should See a Doctor

• Stomach pain or heartburn lasting more than two weeks
• Black or bloody stool
• Sudden, significant weight loss

Use Stomach and Intestine Day as a chance to check in on your digestive health and reset your lifestyle habits.