A healthy gut is one of the foundations of overall wellness. Over the last decade or so, people have become more aware of the damaging effects of stress and processed foods on our health. IBS and gluten intolerance are household words, and it’s common to see gluten warning labels on menus and grocery store aisles.
Here are 7 common food triggers for the “four horsemen” of intestinal distress: bloating, cramps, diarrhea, and constipation.
Even if you don’t consume tofu or edamame, soy is everywhere. And much of it is heavily treated with pesticides and genetically modified (GMO). It’s hidden in protein powders, energy bars, and other processed foods—even so-called health foods! While some people can tolerate soy, it’s not for everyone.
The symptoms of lactose intolerance are deeply unpleasant. Excess mucus production, gas build-up in the stomach leading to bloating, and diarrhea all kick in within minutes of consuming too much lactose. In addition, casein and why—two proteins found in milk—are used in the production of lots of other foods. In fact, the main alternative to soy-based protein powder is whey powder. Skip them both and see if your digestion improves.
Although it sounds dramatic, the nightshade family is just a group of vegetables that can cause adverse reactions in a healthy gut. The alkaloids in tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplants, and potatoes can trigger inflammation in the gut as well as other body systems. Is that salsa really worth sacrificing a healthy gut?
Did you know that corn is a grain, not a vegetable? It’s true! Like soy, corn is often GMO and treated with pesticides. Even organic corn can cause issues, though. If you’re sensitive to gluten, you may also need to try eliminating corn from your diet to see if it helps. Regardless, you should definitely avoid everything that contains high-fructose corn syrup.
Both yolks and whites of eggs contain omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause inflammation. Conventional hens are also fed the same GMO soy and corn you’re trying to avoid. Although eggs are a good source of protein, they may not be right for your unique gut health.
We already touched on high-fructose corn syrup, which is a dietary disaster for your body. Refined sugars become an all-you-can-eat buffet for bacteria in your gut, causing an overgrowth of flora. There’s really no benefit to consuming excess sugar other than satisfying your sweet tooth. Once you cut it out, even moderately sweet treats will taste sickly.
You’ve probably heard a lot about gluten lately. But what is it, and why should you avoid it to maintain a healthy gut? Simply put, gluten is a type of protein found in wheat and other grains that gives dough its stretchiness. Bakers knead dough to develop the long strands of protein, which gives bread a lighter structure.
Even if you don’t have a full-fledged gluten allergy, chances are good that you’ll feel better if you avoid foods containing the protein. Many people find that they have less inflammation when they cut out breads and other gluten-containing foods—and quite a few of them lose weight, too.
