10 COMMON FOODS THAT ARE DIFFICULT TO DIGEST AND THOSE FOODS GREAT FOR DIGESTION.

10 COMMON FOODS THAT ARE DIFFICULT TO DIGEST

 

Digestion is a fundamental process for our bodies, allowing us to absorb the nutrients we need to stay healthy. However, there are some foods that can be difficult for some people to digest, causing symptoms such as abdominal bloating, gas, cramping and nausea. In this photo gallery, based on information provided by pharmeasy.in, we will explore 10 common foods that can be difficult to digest for some people and discuss some tips for improving digestion. If you suffer from digestive problems, this article may help you identify some of the foods that may be causing your symptoms and find ways to improve your digestion.

 

Carbohydrate-rich foods

Rice, pasta, pretzels, bagels or doughnuts are foods that are high in carbohydrates and therefore harmful to the body because they cause increased inflammation.

Processed food

Processed foods irritate the intestines with the presence of unnecessary additives and preservatives. These foods also cause gas, bloating and cramping. Examples of processed foods are bread, cheese, tofu, tuna, or canned beans. (Source of the examples: heartandstroke.ca)

Fried food

The body has difficulty digesting fried foods, which can cause diarrhea, bloating and constipation.

Spicy food

Spicy food causes gas, bloating, heartburn, acid reflux and even stomach pain. Avoid these foods especially at dinner.

Artificial sweeteners

Sorbitol is one of the most common artificial sweeteners, often used to sweeten chewing gum and diet foods. This sweetener can cause gas, bloating and diarrhea in those who eat the foods in which it is contained.

Alcohol

Alcohol negatively affects the stomach and liver and can cause heartburn, acid reflux and under certain conditions even cirrhosis, cramps and diarrhea.

Coffee

Caffeine increases acid production in the stomach and can cause diarrhea, dehydration and thus lead to constipation. Never take on an empty stomach!

Dairy products

Lactose can induce the development of gas, bloating and in some cases even nausea.

Fiber-rich foods

Foods rich in fiber, such as raw vegetables, lentils, beans and brown rice, are difficult to digest because the stomach needs more effort to break them down. Eat these foods in moderation, as they are rich in fiber which can produce to gas, bloating, diarrhea and other stomach problems.

Acidic foods

Tomato sauce and citrus fruits can cause stomach and intestinal irritation because of the acidic component they contain. Also beware of carbonated beverages. Avoid excessive consumption of these foods.

 

THESE FOODS ARE GREAT FOR YOUR DIGESTION

Coffee?

Is coffee good for your digestion? Yes and no. For many people, coffee causes a sudden intestinal activity after consumption. However, caffeine can partly disrupt this activity and break the natural rhythm. The drink is an energizer and it is best to consume it in moderate amounts.

Water

Drinking plenty of water helps intestinal transit. Overall, adequate hydration makes our body work better.

 

Olives

We have already mentioned olive oil as an excellent antidote against intestinal problems. The same can be said of olives. However, it is recommended to eat them in moderation: 25 grams a day, which is about 7 or 8 pieces.

 

Spinach

Spinach contains a lot of fibre and magnesium, which contributes to digestion. And even though Popeye exaggerated its iron content, spinach still has plenty of iron.

Dates

Dates are a delicacy that does miracles for intestinal transit.

Pears

Be careful to pick pears that are not green and sufficiently ripe. They have a lot of liquid, which is also important for the proper functioning of the intestines.

Figs

Figs are especially effective when they are dried. A regular intake of this food is ideal for your digestive system.

Whole wheat bread

Traditional bread is discouraged when you're suffering from constipation. Whole-grain bread (or other seeded bread) can help regulate your bowel activity.

Oranges

In addition to their enormous contribution of vitamin C, oranges can give very good results in terms of achieving a regular digestion.

Avocado

Avocado, as reported on ScienceDaily, is a food that helps the intestinal transit. In addition to being rich in healthy fats, it provides carbohydrates of soluble and insoluble fibre. These help to drag the faeces and increase their volume. You can make a difference by eating half an avocado a day.

Legumes

Beans, lentils or chickpeas; legumes are a recommendable food in all aspects. They may not be everyone's favourite dish, but they help (a lot) to make our intestines work properly.

Almonds

All nuts are rich in fiber, but almonds are the most fiber-containing nuts. Right behind them are pistachios, walnuts and hazelnuts. While they help with your digestion, you shouldn't take too many of them at a time, because they have a lot of calories.

Dried prunes and raisins

Prunes and raisins are a great source of fiber and nutrients. By taking two pieces or portions a day, you will noticeably improve your intestinal transit.

Kiwi

Kiwi is one of the most recommended fruits to improve intestinal transit. Its fiber and vitamin C supply is immense. Doctors recommend to eat 2 kiwis a day. If you eat it at breakfast time, all the better.

Oat flakes

Oat flakes are among the richest whole grain cereals in soluble fiber. In fact, it is recommended that all the cereals you take are whole grains, as they have more fiber and nutrients. The ideal amount of oat flakes is 50 grams a day.

 

Whole grain rice

Brown rice can have laxative effects and it also provides minerals and B-vitamins. As opposed to white rice, which is astringent, this food helps combating constipation. It is recommended to eat it three times a week.

 

Olive oil

Healthy fats in regular and (especially) virgin olive oil promote the intestinal transit. The best way to consume the oil (as far as digestion is concerned), is to add it to a good salad rich in fiber.

Green beans

Green beans bring a large number of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and soluble fiber to the body. They create vital energy for the intestines. The ideal amount in your diet is 250 grams of green beans three times a week.

Artichokes

Artichokes contain inulin, a type of fiber that helps the intestines to function properly.

Papaya

Papaya has a high diuretic value, which means it stimulates urinating and the removal of water and salt from your body. According to recent studies it also helps prevent colon cancer.