Foods That are Hard to Digest

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Foods that are hard to digest can cause us a great deal of discomfort. Difficulty with digestion can be even worse if you suffer from a pre-existing condition or if you’re getting used to your Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon.

Our professional team has therefore taken the time to address a handful of important topics. What foods are hard to digest? Is raw food hard to digest when compared to cooked meals? Are there any specific items on a menu which are better to avoid when eating out? If you wish to save yourself from unnecessary frustration, the suggestions found below should do the trick!

Fatty Substances And Heartburn

Hard to Digest Foods: Fatty Substances

Although many of us are tempted when we see a cheeseburger or a plate of fried chicken, the fact of the matter is that these very same substances can cause our stomachs a significant amount of grief. These are some of the most difficult to digest foods due to the amount of fat they contain.

As a result, we often experience issues such as indigestion and heartburn. It’s better to choose healthier alternatives when possible, and the Spatz team has you covered with what to avoid!

Citrus Fruits

There is a bit of irony when it comes to citrus fruits, as they tend to be high in vitamins and minerals. However, these foods also contain an appreciable amount of fiber. The acidic content of citrus fruits may also lead to issues for those who have a sensitive stomach. It is now clear why these substances are ranked towards the top of our hard to digest foods list.

Artificial Forms of Sugar

While artificial sugar can help to stave off cavities and weight gain, some of the chemicals used are less than helpful in terms of digestion. This is particularly the case when referring to Sorbitol and Malitol. Studies have shown that ingesting large quantities (above 50 grams per day) can lead to diarrhea and cramping.

Beans And Intestinal Cramping

Beans

Beans are a healthy source of protein, so they are often included within many diets. Interestingly enough, beans are also some of the hardest foods to digest, thanks to the presence of complex sugars and carbohydrates.

This is the reason why beans are often associated with flatulence and intestinal cramping. If you are a lover of these humble foods, one option involves soaking them in water for a few hours before cooking. This helps to leach out many of the complex carbohydrates.

Foods Containing Fructose

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, be sure to be aware of fructose. This artificial sweetener is found in many substances; here are some of the most common:

  • Soft drinks such as cola.
  • Pastries
  • Concentrated fruit juice
  • Candy

 

Due to a high concentration of fructose, there are increased chances that you will run into some digestive issues when consuming these products. We would advise you to snack on an apple or a handful of grapes to tackle your sweet tooth. At the end of the day, these are also much healthier alternatives.

Products With Lactose

Dairy Products

Most of us are already aware that dairy products are some of the worst foods for digestion. The difficulty in digestion arises from the high levels of lactose (a natural sugar) which many of these substances contain. Those who are lactose intolerant will often notice bloating, cramps and an upset stomach. Alternatives include lactose-free milk, cottage cheese and yogurt (these do not contain any lactose).

Spicy Foods

Many foods that are hard to digest contain numerous spices for flavoring (such as cumin or paprika). While these may make a meal more enjoyable, spices will often irritate the lining of your stomach. This inevitably leads to indigestion and a downright unpleasant experience. When in doubt, always check the ingredients to be sure that you are not setting yourself up for hours of stomach discomfort.

A Bit of Knowledge Goes a Long Way

Keep in mind that this is only a short list of some of the most common foods that are hard to digest. Depending upon your unique situation, there can be other substances that lead to issues. Whether a gastric balloon has recently been inserted into your stomach or you are simply hoping to avoid indigestion, be sure to refer back to the details above for future reference.

Looking for some alternatives for these hard to digest foods? Check out our blog post discussing which foods are easiest to digest >>> https://www.spatzmedical.com/blog/

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