We often think of good health as having clear skin, lots of energy and never having an upset stomach. But the body does plenty of small things every day that may seem odd, embarrassing or even worrying, yet are completely normal.
A runny nose in cold weather, a noisy stomach or passing gas may not sound like signs of good health. In fact, many of us try to stop or ignore these everyday body functions. But they can simply be signs that your body is doing what it is supposed to do.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford University, recently shared a post on Instagram explaining 10 such signs. From earwax to sweating, here is what he had to say.
1. Your Nose Runs In Cold Weather
A runny nose when you step out into cold weather is quite common. Cold air and sudden temperature changes can trigger nonallergic rhinitis. It is often just the nose's way of protecting itself.
2. You Produce Earwax
Earwax is not simply dirt that needs to be removed. It helps keep the ear canal dry and protects it from infections. So, having some earwax is normal.
3. Your Skin Springs Back After A Gentle Pinch
Skin naturally has some elasticity. When gently pinched, healthy skin usually returns to its normal position. However, Dr Sethi notes that skin turgor alone is not a reliable way to judge hydration in every adult.
4. You Burp After A Fizzy Drink
Had a fizzy drink and burped afterwards? That's normal. Carbonated drinks add extra gas to your digestive system, and burping is simply your body's way of getting rid of it.
5. Your Gums Don't Bleed While Brushing
Healthy gums generally should not bleed easily. If your gums bleed often while brushing or flossing, it could point to gum inflammation or another dental issue.
6. Your Stomach Sometimes Rumbles
That familiar rumbling sound is usually nothing to worry about. It happens as the intestines move food, fluids and gas through the digestive system.
7. Your Bowel Movements Are Regular
There is no single definition of "regular" when it comes to bowel movements. Dr Sethi says anything from about three times a day to three times a week can be normal, as long as your stools are comfortable and easy to pass.
8. You Sweat During Exercise
Sweating is one of the body's natural cooling systems. When you exercise or get hot, sweating helps keep your body temperature in check.
9. Your Urine Is Light Yellow
Pale-yellow urine is generally a good sign that you are getting enough fluids. Darker urine can sometimes mean you need to drink more water.
10. You Pass Gas Daily
Passing gas is a normal part of digestion. Gut bacteria produce gas as they break down food, so daily farting is not necessarily something to worry about.
Not every unusual sound, smell or body function is a problem. Many of these everyday signs are simply part of how a healthy body works. Of course, persistent or unusual symptoms should still be checked by a doctor.


