The intestines are part of the digestive system that has a huge impact on the functioning of the entire body. It is in them that the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients take place, and the presence of natural bacterial microflora makes the body more resistant to infections.
In addition, the synthesis of fatty acids, amino acids and vitamins (K2, B12 and biotin) takes place in the intestines. However, there are products that adversely affect the work of these organs.
Fast Food
Frequently eating fast food reduces the diversity of bacteria that make up the microbiome. Fortunately, the microflora of the digestive system has the ability to quickly rebuild, but still it is better to avoid highly processed foods.
Antibiotic therapy
Antibiotics are used in the course of bacterial infections. In many cases, therapy with them is necessary, although it is worth remembering that they can sterilize the physiological bacterial microflora of the intestines. Rebuilding the normal flora sometimes takes even a few weeks from the moment of discontinuation of medications, for this reason, while taking antibiotics, it is worth taking probiotic and protective preparations that stimulate the multiplication of favorable bacterial strains in the intestines.
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Simple sugars
They are an excellent nutrient for pathogenic bacteria that have an adverse effect on the condition of the mucosa, which can lead to the development of inflammatory bowel diseases and dysbiosis. This is a condition where pathogens have an advantage over the beneficial flora. Symptoms include constipation or diarrhoea, abdominal pain and bloating. Maintaining the bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract in good condition is conducive to the consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in fiber and wholegrain cereal products.
Benzoic acid
Ready sauces, canned fish or carbonated drinks – products of this type are often preserved with benzoic acid and its salts. These substances consumed in excess can irritate the mucous membrane of the digestive tract, which leads to inflammatory bowel diseases.
Gluten
Food containing gluten (e.g. bread) sometimes causes abdominal pain, drowsiness or a feeling of heaviness. These symptoms indicate gluten intolerance. People with this condition should exclude or at least limit the consumption of cereal products.
Alcohol
Alcohol slows down the digestion of food and promotes inflammation of the mucous membranes. It also degrades intestinal epithelial cells. As a result, they become more permeable, which makes it easier for pathogens to enter the bloodstream.
Red meat
Experts emphasize that frequent consumption of red meat increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. In addition, during the heat treatment of meat (i.e. smoking, grilling), mutagenic compounds are formed (heterocyclic aromatic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), which are not indifferent to health.
Legumes
Alpha-galactosidase is an enzyme that can break down galactooligosaccharides (GOS) present in legumes. Unfortunately, the human small intestine does not produce this enzyme, which is why gas and bloating occur most often after eating legumes. Bean saccharides, on the other hand, are broken down by intestinal bacteria, but digestion occurs with the production of gases that aggravate abdominal pain and intestinal problems. In order to deprive legumes of gas-forming substances, it is necessary, among others, to soak them in water, which then needs to be drained.
Aspartame
This sugar substitute can be found mainly in foods labeled “fit” or “light”, as well as in carbonated drinks and chewing gum. Consumed in large quantities, it can cause diarrhea and bothersome intestinal cramps.
Stress
As a result of chronic stress, the body secretes adrenaline, which is associated with increased production of digestive juices, which in excessive amounts cause erosions and ulcers of the digestive tract. When this condition lasts for a long time, then the motor skills slow down significantly and malabsorption of nutrients may arise, as well as incorrectly increased feeling of symptoms sent from the intestines.
How to keep the intestines in good condition?
To keep your digestive tract healthy and prevent disease from developing, avoid or severely limit the foods and factors listed above in your daily diet. A thorough change in diet and supplementation is always worth discussing with a doctor or dietician. A varied and balanced diet is the basis of well-being. People with intestinal problems should always eat freshly prepared meals and use optimal food processing techniques. This strategy can stop the development of gastroenteritis.
