5 Surprising Foods That May Lead to Gastrointestinal and Digestive Problems

Our gut health plays a huge role in our overall wellness, but many of us unknowingly ingest foods that can disrupt our digestive system. The digestive tract plays a big role in the absorption of nutrients, the maintenance of immune function, and the overall body system. While the most unhealthy foods can cause many of these digestive issues, the best liver specialist in Pune even healthy-looking foods can cause digestive issues, ranging from bloating and gas to more serious gut problems such as indigestion, acid reflux, and IBS. The digestive system requires careful attention to what we eat.

As one of the top liver specialists in Pune, Dr. Bhate has treated hundreds of patients who are experiencing discomfort in their digestive system and has found many foods that cause gut problems. Here are five surprise foods that could be damaging your digestive system.

1. Artificial Sweeteners

Many people rely on artificial sweeteners to cut back on sugar consumption but still get that sweet fix. But what they don’t realize is how these sugar substitutes can have a devastating impact on gut health. Aspartame, sucralose, and sorbitol, all commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free snacks, and candies, can mess with the gut microbiome.

Artificial sweeteners may disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, leading to bloating, gas, and even diarrhea. Some studies also suggest that artificial sweeteners can increase appetite, potentially leading to overeating. If you’re experiencing digestive issues, it may be worth reducing or eliminating these sweeteners from your diet.

2. Dairy Products (for Lactose-Intolerant Individuals)

Many people take dairy as a significant constituent of their diet because it is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. However, for individuals who are lactose intolerant, consuming dairy causes extreme digestive distress. Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. In individuals who are lactose intolerant, there is a deficiency of an enzyme that helps to break it down properly.

This leads to several symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and flatulence while consuming dairy in lactose-intolerant people. Even the smallest amounts can cause discomfort. The person should recognize the symptoms and consider changing to lactose-free or dairy alternatives, such as almond, soy, or oat milk.

3. Gluten-containing Foods

Other very common digestive problems trigger a protein known as gluten in wheat, barley, and rye. Generally, gluten is not very toxic to most individuals. The individual who has gluten sensitivity or celiac disease undergoes an immune reaction which will lead to inflammation within the gut. This, therefore, results in numerous problems including bloating, gas, diarrhea, and pain in the abdomen.

Even those without celiac disease may suffer from non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which can lead to discomfort after consuming gluten-rich foods. If you’re unsure whether gluten is affecting your digestion, it’s a good idea to consult a gastroenterologist to determine if a gluten-free diet might help improve your symptoms.

4. Fried and Fatty Foods

Fried and fatty foods, although palatable, are among the leading causes of digestive disorders. Deep-fried chicken, greasy burgers, and fatty cuts of meat contain unhealthy fats that slow down digestion and cause bloating, acid reflux, and indigestion. These may also trigger or worsen diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is a condition where stomach acids flow back into the esophagus.

High-fat foods have a higher digestion time in the stomach which causes discomfort and can bring a feeling of fullness. They may also dilate the lower esophageal sphincter allowing the stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. A reduced amount of fried and fatty food will have a positive impact on digestion and reduce heartburn among other symptoms.

5. Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are very nutrient-rich, and rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, they can cause digestive problems for many. They have a lot of fiber, and the carbohydrates present are raffinose. This makes it difficult for the body to digest it.

When such food products reach the large intestine, they get fermented by gut bacteria and produce gas. This is the root cause of bloating, cramping, and flatulence in people who are not familiar with high-fiber intake. Although these vegetables can be very helpful in multiple aspects, if digestive problems start to appear after you eat them, it will be better to reduce your intake or cook them before so that the fiber and sugar break down.

SummarySome foods, even though they are perceived to be healthy, by the best liver specialist in Pune cause digestive discomfort in some people. They include artificial sweeteners, dairy products, gluten-containing foods, fried and fatty foods, and cruciferous vegetables. These foods can provoke symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. If you experience digestive discomfort, seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Dr. Bhate’s clinic is the best gastro-liver clinic in Pune, with specialized treatment for digestive disorders and gut health issues. It can be improved through well-informed dietary choices and a better understanding of the human body.