Experts say that different foods digest at different times so it’s best to combine those with a similar timing to avoid discomfort and an overload to your digestive system
We’ve all been guilty of indulging in a pizza and washing it down with a fizzy drink, but have you ever stopped to consider the impact this combo could be having on your health?
According to health and nutrition experts, this popular pairing could be wreaking havoc on our stomachs. Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood has warned that different foods digest at varying rates – so it’s best to pair those with similar digestion times to avoid discomfort and an overload to your digestive system.
Foods also have different pH levels – those with lower levels are considered acidic (like grains, eggs, meat and fizzy drinks), while those with higher pH levels are alkaline (such as fruits and vegetables). Consuming foods with differing pH levels together can lead to improper digestion, resulting in bloating and gas for those with sensitive stomachs.
Ashleigh Tosh, a health and nutrition expert at Prepped Pots, advised: “When combining foods you want to look at two key components – how long they take to digest and their pH levels. The general rule of thumb is to stick to foods with similar digestion times and similar pH levels to give the stomach the best chance at digesting meals efficiently and effectively.”
Mixing the wrong foods can not only cause uncomfortable bloating, but it can also prevent your body from absorbing all the nutrients from your meals. For instance, having a cuppa with your morning eggs can actually hinder the amount of iron absorbed by your body – just think about all those wasted nutrients!
Experts have compiled a list of food combinations to steer clear of if you want to avoid painful bloating.
Fizzy drinks and pizza
The no-go combos include fizzy drinks and pizza, a classic pairing that can wreak havoc on your stomach. The refined carbs in pizza coupled with the added sugars in fizzy drinks can cause a dramatic surge in blood sugar levels.
Pizza is also a greasy food and when combined with carbonated drinks, it can be tough on your digestive system, leading to an uncomfortably full and bloated feeling.
Fruits and cereals
Fruits and cereals are another combo to avoid, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. Due to their difference in digestion time – fruits are easily digested while grains take longer – eating these foods together can cause discomfort.
Coffee and iron-rich foods
Coffee and iron-rich foods are another combination to avoid.
If you’re pairing your morning eggs with a cup of coffee, you could be hindering your body’s ability to absorb iron. Both coffee and tea contain properties that interfere with iron absorption, meaning you might not be reaping all the benefits from your meal.
It’s recommended to hold off on the brews for at least an hour after consuming an iron-rich meal.
Eggs and meat
Eggs and meat may seem like a hearty breakfast combo, but this high-protein duo can be tough on the digestive system, potentially leading to protein overload and stomach discomfort.
Yoghurts and fruit
Yoghurts and fruit might sound like a healthy mix, but yoghurt is alkaline while many fruits commonly paired with it, such as blueberries and strawberries, are acidic. You can still savour a bowl of yoghurt and fruit for breakfast, but consider choosing alkaline fruits like raspberries and bananas.
