There was once a saying that stomach diseases are exclusive to middle-aged and elderly people. In fact, anyone with poor eating habits, regardless of age, may suffer from stomach issues. Stomach disease is a chronic condition, and with the fast pace of modern life, more and more young people are neglecting their diet, often experiencing problems like bloating, indigestion, and abdominal pain. As a result, the number of young people with stomach issues has been steadily increasing in recent years. Most stomach problems are related to eating and are also linked to a lack of awareness. Some people do not pay attention to their discomfort when experiencing stomach problems, thinking that eating porridge and green vegetables for a few days will suffice. Little do they know, this delays their optimal treatment time, and once it gets serious, the consequences could be dire.
Although there are many “stomach-friendly foods” in daily life, individual circumstances may vary, and some foods that are supposed to be good for the stomach may have the opposite effect. “Nourishing the stomach” can turn into “harming the stomach.” Let’s explore which foods have such properties together.
Three types of foods that can harm the stomach when eaten incorrectly
1. Porridge
Many people might say this is nonsense, as in most people’s perception, porridge is a liquid food that is easily absorbed by the body. If the stomach is uncomfortable and difficult to digest rice, porridge seems like a good option. In reality, for those with specific stomach discomfort, regularly drinking porridge during illness may worsen their condition. For instance, when experiencing a stomach ulcer, frequent consumption of porridge may lead to acid reflux and aggravate the situation.
2. Milk
For a healthy person, drinking a cup of warm milk before bed can aid better sleep and improve sleep quality. However, this benefit may not be applicable for those with high stomach acid. Additionally, for those who are lactose intolerant, drinking milk might cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to bloating and diarrhea.
3. Kiwi
Kiwis are high in vitamins and have a sour taste. They contain proteolytic enzymes and oxalic acid, which can have a certain stimulating effect on the body, potentially increasing gastric acid.
Three types of foods that “truly” help nourish the stomach
1. Yam
Yam is a starchy food that can be cooked until soft for easy absorption. It does not contain any components that could irritate the gastrointestinal tract, making it a suitable option for those suffering from stomach disease when consumed in moderation.
2. Okra
When cut open, okra releases some mucilage; don’t be put off, as this mucilage is a type of viscous glycoprotein rich in okra. It contains pectin, dietary fiber, and other substances that can help strengthen the spleen and nourish the stomach, aiding in digestion.
3. Radish
Whether white radish or green radish, both contain various digestive enzymes that can help the body digest food residues and alleviate the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.