Ever notice certain foods leave your stomach in knots? If bloating and discomfort have become your mealtime norm, it could be time to take a closer look at what you’re eating. Some common foods are known for messing with digestion, and we’ve rounded up 12 of the usual suspects. Skip these, and you might find your gut feels a lot calmer.
Goji Berries
Goji berries are often praised for their antioxidants, vitamins, and so-called “superfood” benefits. However, some people find them hard to digest due to their lectin content, which can irritate sensitive stomachs. To make them easier on digestion, try cooking or soaking them before consumption. They’re also packed with fiber, so overindulging might lead to bloating or discomfort.
Tomatoes
A staple in many dishes, tomatoes are rich in vitamins like C and K, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health. However, they can be tough on the stomach for those sensitive to lectins or acidic foods. Cooking them, or removing the skins and seeds, can ease digestion and make tomatoes a better option for people with sensitivities.
Potatoes
As one of the most beloved comfort foods, potatoes are loaded with potassium and vitamin C. But for some, the lectins in potatoes can lead to digestive issues, especially if they’re not cooked properly. Opting for mashed, boiled, or roasted potatoes can make them easier to digest, while raw or undercooked potatoes may trigger discomfort.
Eggplant
Eggplants are a great source of fiber and contain antioxidants like nasunin, which is good for brain health. However, their skin and seeds can cause stomach irritation in some individuals. Cooking eggplant well can help break down compounds that might otherwise cause gas or bloating, making it easier to digest for those with sensitivities.
Lentils
Packed with protein and fiber, lentils are a staple for vegetarians and anyone looking for plant-based nutrition. Yet, they also contain lectins and can be difficult to digest for some, especially if not cooked thoroughly. Soaking lentils before cooking can reduce potential digestive issues, and slow cooking them can help make them easier on the gut.
Beans
Beans are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. However, they can be tough on digestion due to their lectin content and complex sugars that lead to bloating. Soaking and cooking beans properly can help reduce these issues and make them more tolerable for sensitive stomachs.
Peanuts
Peanuts are loaded with protein and healthy fats, making them a popular snack. Unfortunately, they can also cause digestive upset in people sensitive to lectins or who have trouble breaking down certain proteins. If peanuts cause discomfort, opting for different nuts or thoroughly roasting them might help.
Corn
Though often treated as a vegetable, corn is actually a grain and can be tough on the digestive system, especially for those with sensitivities. Its high fiber content can sometimes lead to bloating or gas. Corn is also in a lot of processed foods, so reducing your intake could help if it’s causing issues.
Soybeans
Soybeans are a rich source of plant-based protein, but they contain compounds like lectins and phytic acid, which can make them harder to digest. Fermenting soybeans (into products like miso or tempeh) lowers these compounds and might be a better option for those with sensitive stomachs.
Cashews
Cashews are often enjoyed for their creamy texture and rich taste, but they can cause digestive issues due to compounds that are tough on the stomach. Soaking or roasting them can make cashews easier to digest, but those with sensitivities might want to limit them.
Peppers
Whether sweet or spicy, peppers are nutrient-rich and loaded with vitamin C. However, they can cause digestive discomfort, especially when eaten raw, due to their lectin content and tough skins. Cooking peppers softens them and makes them easier on the digestive system.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a protein-packed grain alternative that’s high in fiber, but its natural saponins and lectins can irritate some stomachs. Thorough rinsing and cooking can help reduce these compounds and make quinoa more digestible for those sensitive to it.
12 Foods That Will Destroy Your Gut (And Why You Can’t Stop Eating Them)
We all have those go-to comfort foods that, while delicious, aren’t exactly doing our digestive systems any favors. The truth is, some of the most popular foods can wreak havoc on your gut, leading to issues like bloating, inflammation, and even long-term digestive problems. From artificial sweeteners that disrupt your gut microbiome to fried foods that slow down digestion, these common culprits can turn your gut into a battleground. Let’s break down the science behind why these foods are tough on your system and why, despite the consequences, they’re still so hard to quit.
Read it Here: 12 Foods That Will Destroy Your Gut (And Why You Can’t Stop Eating Them)
13 Foods You Should Be Eating If You Care About Your Health
We all know we could be eating better, but who has the time? Between the fast food temptations and the convenience of processed snacks, it’s easy to skip over the foods that actually do your body some good. But if you care even a little about your health, it might be time to give these 13 nutrient-packed foods a chance. They’re not just trendy buzzwords—they’re the real deal when it comes to giving your diet a much-needed boost. If you’re tired of feeling sluggish and want to pretend you’ve got this whole “healthy eating” thing figured out, these foods are a good place to start.
Read it Here: 13 Foods You Should Be Eating If You Care About Your Health
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
