If you’re one of the millions of French people who suffer from stomach problems, you might be wondering what you can do to ease your discomfort. While there are a number of over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help, changing your diet is also an important part of managing your stomach issues.
There are a number of foods that can make stomach problems worse. In this blog post, discover 9 foods to avoid.
-
Spicy foods:
Anyone who has ever eaten a spicy dish knows the discomfort that can ensue. But why is this happening? It turns out that spicy foods can cause stomach problems for a variety of reasons. For one thing, they can irritate the stomach lining, leading to abdominal pain, heartburn, and gas. Also, they can stimulate the release of excess stomach acid, which can contribute to indigestion. Spicy foods can thus trigger intestinal spasms, which makes it difficult for the digestive system to work. Finally, they can accelerate intestinal contractions, which leads to diarrhea.
-
Fatty foods:
Fatty foods generally take longer to digest than other types of food, which can lead to indigestion, bloating, and gas. Also, fatty foods can stimulate acid production in the stomach, which can contribute to heartburn and other forms of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Finally, fatty foods can also cause vomiting and diarrhea by irritating the stomach lining.
-
Soft drinks :
The discomfort is caused by the carbon dioxide in carbonated drinks forming bubbles in the stomach. These bubbles can stretch the walls of the stomach, leading to pain and discomfort. Additionally, the bubbles can trap air in the stomach, which is where bloating and belching originate. Carbonated drinks can further irritate the stomach lining, exacerbating any existing gastric problems. For these reasons, it’s best to limit or avoid carbonated drinks if you’re prone to stomach upset.
-
Citrus:
Citrus fruits are delicious and full of nutrients, but they can also cause stomach problems for some people. The acids in citrus fruits can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause abdominal pain, heartburn and indigestion. Also, the high sugar content of some citrus fruits can contribute to diarrhea and gas.
-
Coffee :
Many people enjoy coffee for its caffeine content and rich flavor. However, coffee can also cause stomach problems for some of us. The exact reason for this is not fully understood, but it is believed that caffeic acid and other compounds in coffee can irritate the stomach lining. Coffee is also a diuretic, which means it can promote dehydration and lead to imbalanced fluid levels. Also, coffee drinkers are more likely to suffer from constipation due to lack of fiber in their diet. For these reasons, it is best to drink coffee in moderation and be aware of possible side effects.
-
Alcohol:
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it causes the body to lose fluids. When you drink alcohol, your body extracts water from your tissues in order to expel the alcohol. This can lead to dehydration, which later leads to stomach cramps. Alcohol also irritates the stomach lining, which can contribute to stomach discomfort. In addition, alcohol consumption can trigger or worsen inflammatory conditions such as gastritis. Here’s why it’s no surprise that alcohol is a common cause of stomach problems.
-
Dairy products :
First of all, dairy products contain lactose, a sugar that many people have trouble digesting. When lactose isn’t broken down properly, it can cause stomach pain and cramps. Additionally, many dairy products are high in fat, which can also lead to digestive issues. Finally, cow’s milk usually contains hormones and antibiotics that can upset the natural balance of gut bacteria. For some people, avoiding dairy products or taking a lactase supplement can help reduce stomach issues. However, it is always best to consult a doctor or dietitian before making any major changes to your diet.
-
Artificial sweeteners:
One of the most common side effects of artificial sweeteners is bloating. This is because the body cannot break down these substances as easily as natural sugars. Therefore, sweeteners can remain in the stomach and cause discomfort. In addition, artificial sweeteners can trigger diarrhea as well. Indeed, they can act as a laxative and stimulate intestinal transit. For these reasons, it’s important to know the potential side effects of artificial sweeteners before you start using them.
-
Processed foods:
Processed foods contain a huge amount of fat and sugar, which can be difficult for the stomach to digest. They also tend to lack fiber, which helps the digestive system move food through the intestines. As a result, processed foods often contain preservatives and additives that can upset the delicate balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to bloating and diarrhea. Finally, many processed foods are fried, which can further worsen gut health.
