Nowadays, stomach diseases have become occupational diseases, mainly caused by irregular meals and overeating, a phenomenon most common among office workers. In fact, to keep your stomach healthy, you should eat more stomach-nourishing foods daily and be wary of the following 10 foods that can harm your stomach.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is particularly high in soluble fiber. This type of fiber can only be broken down in the large intestine, producing a large amount of gas. At the same time, broccoli also contains gas-producing sugars similar to those found in beans.
2. Coffee
Coffee can irritate the stomach, causing it to secrete excess gastric acid, leading to indigestion and acid reflux. People with stomach ulcers and heartburn symptoms should drink less coffee. Caffeinated beverages should also be consumed in moderation.
3. Chocolate
Chocolate contains a large amount of theobromine, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to easily flow back into the esophagus.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are highly acidic and can stimulate the stomach to produce more acid. Therefore, eating too many tomatoes can lead to symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn. The same applies to tomato sauce made from tomatoes.
5. Mint
Mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Be cautious with anything containing mint, such as mint tea, mint candies, and mint gum.
6. Soda and Juice
Both of these drinks contain a lot of fructose. About 30% of adults do not absorb fructose well, which can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
7. Dairy Products
For people with lactose intolerance, consuming dairy products can cause stomach discomfort. You can opt for yogurt, hard cheese, or milk with low lactose content.
8. Greasy Food
High-fat foods, such as fried foods, can increase the chances of acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. Because high-fat foods are difficult to digest, the body automatically secretes more gastric acid. Similarly, overeating can also lead to excessive gastric acid secretion.
9. Cold Drinks
Excessive consumption of cold drinks can lower the temperature inside the stomach, affecting gastric acid secretion and the function of digestive enzymes. Therefore, it's best to drink hot beverages like tea and hot lemon water with meals. Cold drinks are best consumed between meals.
10. Beans
Beans contain oligosaccharides, which are difficult for the human body to digest, and can therefore cause gas in the intestines. Eating moderate amounts of fermented bean products, such as fermented bean curd, natto, and douchi, can help alleviate this issue.