If you’re looking to boost your overall well-being this winter, paying attention to your gut health is crucial. Your digestive system is not just responsible for breaking down food; it also contains trillions of microorganisms that affect everything from nutrient uptake to mental well-being. Poor gut health can lead to various issues, such as inflammation, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties.
Thankfully, there are numerous ways to improve your gut health, including eliminating certain foods that often “wreck havoc” on digestion from your diet. We reached out to dietitians, nutritionists and other health experts to learn more about which processed, chemical-laden and high-calorie foods to avoid this season.
Experts Reveal 6 Worst Foods for Gut Health That 'Wreak Havoc' on Digestion: Limit These for a Healthier Gut
1. Cereals With Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, often added to enhance taste without the calories, can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to an unfavorable microbiome composition. Additionally, studies suggest that the consumption of artificial sweeteners might interfere with the body's natural regulation of appetite, potentially contributing to increased calorie intake and, consequently, weight gain.
"Not only are cereals often low in fiber, high in sugar, and low in nutrients, cereal often contains sugar and artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols such as erythritol that may disrupt the gut," Abby Grimm, MS, RDN, LDN, IFNCP, tells us. She adds that "sugar alcohols draw water into the digestive system, causing unfavorable symptoms like bloating, loose stools, gas, and stomach cramps." They can also change "the makeup of good and bad bacteria in the microbiome."
Grimm further adds that with a deficiency in protein, these food choices can contribute to unregulated high blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar, in turn, tends to prompt heightened sugar consumption, ultimately resulting in weight gain. Furthermore, an excess of sugar in the diet can fuel the growth of detrimental gut bacteria, influencing communication with the body and impacting the regulation of weight maintenance.
2. Instant Ramen Noodles
Instant noodles like the ramen found in the kitchens of college students everywhere are cheap, convenient, and tasty. Unfortunately, though, Catherine Gervacio, registered dietitian for Living.Fit, warns that your body probably won't love them as much as your taste buds do; this is another food that could throw your digestive system for a loop.
"These convenient meals are often high in sodium and may contain artificial flavorings and preservatives, which can contribute to bloating and water retention," she warns. "Sodium plays a crucial role in regulating fluid balance in the body. When you consume excessive amounts of sodium, such as from highly processed foods or foods with added salt, it can disrupt the balance of fluids and electrolytes."
She explains further that "Sodium attracts and retains water, leading to fluid retention in the body." Ultimately, this excess water can result in bloating.
3. French Fries
While fresh, hot French fries may be undeniably delicious, it's important to remember that fast food can lead to a range of consequences, including possible mental health issues. As it turns out, Gervacio says we can also add digestive issues like gas and bloating to the list. She noted that these are "typically high in trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and sodium."
Sodium, in particular, can a serious toll on your health. All in all, Gervacio says that the surplus of additives can be difficult to digest and result in bloating. "Trans fats have been associated with promoting inflammation in the body," she explains. "Inflammation can affect the digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort." Yikes! You're better off choosing anti-inflammatory foods instead.
4. Sugar-Sweetened Yogurt
Sugar-sweetened yogurt, despite its seemingly healthful image, can have detrimental effects on various aspects of well-being. Packed with added sugars, such yogurts may contribute to bloating and digestive discomfort, as excess sugar intake can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and lead to inflammation.
"Many store-bought yogurts have too much-added sugar, exceeding the recommended daily intake," Krutika Nanavati, registered dietitian and nutritionist, says. Excess sugar promotes harmful gut bacteria growth, leading to inflammation, bloating, and digestion issues. Certain yogurts contain artificial sweeteners, which studies suggest could potentially disturb the composition of the gut microbiome and contribute to weight gain," Nanavati says.
As for gut health, she notes that "a lot of flavored yogurts fall short in providing enough fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut and feeling full. Insufficient fiber intake can result in constipation and consuming more calories than needed."
5. Sugary Dried Fruit
While dried fruits are often thought of as a healthy snack option, it's essential to be mindful of their potential impact on bloating, gut health, and weight gain. Drying fruits concentrates their natural sugars, resulting in a higher calorie density and increased sugar content per serving. Moreover, the high calorie and sugar load in dried fruits may contribute to weight gain if not consumed in moderation.
When it comes to bloating and gut health, Nanavati says "While dried fruit offers vitamins and minerals, its higher natural sugar concentration compared to fresh fruit can disrupt gut bacteria balance, causing bloating. Certain dried fruits may contain sulfites, which are preservatives that could potentially contribute to imbalances in the gut microbiome and digestive problems in sensitive individuals."
These can also impact weight gain, as she says "Despite its small serving size, dried fruit contains a surprisingly high number of calories due to the dehydration process. Excessive consumption of dried fruit can contribute to weight gain."
6. Frozen Pizza Rolls
The dough used in pizza rolls is typically made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients. Refined carbohydrates can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, prompting a quick release of insulin. Over time, frequent insulin spikes can lead to insulin resistance and promote fat storage, particularly around the abdominal area.
Johanna Angman, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, tells us: "Packed with refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, and sodium, these can cause bloating, inflammation, and hinder weight loss efforts."
The Bottom Line
Understanding how your diet affects digestion is key to feeling your best. Some foods can mess with your gut, causing bloating, indigestion, and even inflammation. They might also slow down your metabolism and make it harder for your body to absorb nutrients, which can lead to weight gain. Cutting out these troublemakers, as experts tell us, can help keep your gut healthy and make managing your weight easier.
