Is aspirin harmless? The hidden risks to your gut and health

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is considered a classic among medications. It has been used for over 100 years to treat headaches, fever, and prevent heart attacks. Many people consider it a "gentle" painkiller. But is aspirin really as harmless as is often thought? A look at the stomach and intestines reveals that it's not quite that simple.

How does aspirin actually work?

Aspirin inhibits the enzymes known as cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2) . These enzymes are responsible for the formation of prostaglandins – messenger substances that trigger pain and inflammation, but also have protective functions in the body.

• Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory → fewer prostaglandins in joints and tissues.
• Side effect in the digestive tract → fewer prostaglandins are produced in the gastrointestinal tract, which actually protect the mucous membrane there.

Risk 1: Weakened stomach protection

Normally, prostaglandins in the stomach cause:

• increased mucus and bicarbonate formation ,
• good blood circulation in the gastric mucosa ,
• Protection against aggressive stomach acid.

Aspirin blocks these protective mechanisms. As a result, the stomach lining becomes more susceptible to irritation, inflammation, ulcers, and bleeding .

Risk 2: Leaky Gut

Recent studies show that aspirin can also make the intestinal mucosa more permeable .

• The tight junctions that normally seal the intestinal wall are weakened.
• Pollutants, bacterial components and undigested food residues can more easily enter the blood.
• This can promote inflammation in the body – a mechanism associated with autoimmune diseases, food intolerances and chronic fatigue.

Risk 3: Increased irritable bowel symptoms

Although aspirin is not a direct cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) , it can:

• disrupt the balance of the intestinal flora ,
• Promote micro-inflammations in the intestine,
• Increased bloating, diarrhea or abdominal pain .

Many people with sensitive bowels report that their symptoms worsen after taking aspirin or other painkillers (such as ibuprofen or diclofenac).

What does this mean for you?

• Occasional use (e.g. for headaches) is usually unproblematic – as long as there are no pre-existing conditions.
• Regular intake (e.g. for heart attack prophylaxis) should always be supervised by a doctor .
• People with sensitive bowels, irritable bowel syndrome, or chronic conditions should be particularly careful and discuss alternatives with their doctor.

Natural protection: Colostrum

If medications such as aspirin or other painkillers are necessary , there are ways to provide additional protection for the gastrointestinal tract.

A promising approach is colostrum (first milk).

• It contains immunoglobulins, growth factors and anti-inflammatory substances that can strengthen the mucosal barrier.
• Studies suggest that colostrum regenerates and seals the intestinal mucosa – thus working exactly where aspirin weakens.
• It is considered natural and effective in supporting intestinal balance.

Conclusion

Aspirin is an effective medication that can be useful in many situations. But it's not harmless. It poses risks, especially for the gastrointestinal tract, that are often underestimated. Anyone who takes it regularly should pay attention to their gut—and not take potential side effects lightly.

Good to know: If you depend on aspirin or similar medications, you can significantly reduce the strain on your stomach and intestines with accompanying stomach protection and natural remedies such as colostrum .