Gut Health: 3 food combinations to avoid for better gut health, according to leading Gastroenterologist |

Digestive health is a matter of concern for many, and it is not just influenced by what we consume but also what we consume WITH. Some food combinations are just a big NO and can cause unnecessary stress on the digestive system, leading to gas, bloating or sluggish digestion. Here are three common food pairings that may be doing more harm than good.Dr. Shubham Vatsya, Consultant Gastroenterologist, highlights three food pairings that can silently strain the digestive health and are best avoided.

Fast food + carbonated drinks

The most popular food combination and probably one of the unhealthiest ones for the gut. Fast food is often high in refined fats, carbs and preservatives, making it hard to digest. Pairing it with a fizzy and cold drink adds to the problem. The carbonation introduces excess gas into the stomach, while the cold temperature can slow down enzyme activity. Together they can lead to bloating, indigestion of acidity, in some cases acid reflux. Over time, this pairing may also disrupt gut microbiome and weaken digestive efficiency.

Milk + fish

We all have probably heard about this dangerous combination but not for the reasons we believe it was, it is something else. Necessarily, it is not harmful for everyone but this combination is widely discouraged in traditional systems like Ayurveda. The problem lies in how differently these two protein sources are digested. Fish is on the lighter side and faster to break down, whereas milk is heavier and slower to digest. When consumed together, they can linger in the gut longer than what is necessary, potentially provoking bloating, mild indigestion or histamine type reactions.

Fruit right after a meal

Fruits are surely a healthy option and easy to digest even on their own, eating them right after a heavy meal can be counterproductive. Fruits digest much faster than proteins, fats and complex carbs. When they are consumed immediately after a main course, they tend to ferment in the gut while waiting for the rest of the food to digest. This fermentation can cause, gas cramps or stomach discomfort. For optimal digestion of the body, fruits should be eaten alone on an empty stomach 30 minutes before a meal.This points out that unhealthy food combinations though easy to get past, can be a big contributing factor towards digestive discomfort, and long-term gut health problems. By avoiding these exact pairings, the digestive system can operate more effectively, lower the risk of bloating, gas and maintain a healthier gut environment overall. By introducing small but vital changes in the way meals are arranged, permanent effects on energy levels, immunity and general well-being can result.

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