If you’d like to continue eating your favorite foods even though they cause stomach issues, there are ways you can still enjoy them.
Here are some common stomach-agitating foods and how you can eat them without causing an upset.
Fried Food
Fried food can cause acid reflux, diarrhea, and stomachaches due to the high-fat content. Instead of deep frying, pan fry food with a little oil, or use other cooking methods such as roasting, air frying, or baking.
Citrus Fruit
Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are acidic which causes heartburn in some people. Acid slows down bowel movements which result in acid from the stomach flowing back into the esophagus and causing heartburn. If citrus fruits cause acid reflux for you, it’s best to avoid them.
Beans
Beans contain undigestible oligosaccharides. They also have fermentable fibers which can cause bloating, abdominal discomfort, and gas. But beans are good for you, so try soaking them for about four hours before cooking to reduce gas.
Spicy Food
Not everyone’s stomachs embrace spicy food. Some people experience acid reflux or heartburn. If you find you have a low tolerance for spice, try adding less to your food, or cooking blander meals.
Cruciferous Vegetables
These vegetables from the cabbage family include broccoli, cabbage, collard greens, and kale. They contain sugars that can contribute to gas, bloating, and discomfort. They are harder to digest due to being high in fiber. If you love eating cruciferous vegetables but experience stomach issues, try to cook them more thoroughly rather than eating them raw.