Food groups that help the digestive system recover, reduce bloating and discomfort
When experiencing symptoms such as bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion, the diet needs to be adjusted to reduce pressure on the stomach and intestines. Especially for people who are fatigued or in the recovery stage after surgery, choosing easy-to-digest, nutrient-rich foods can contribute to supporting the recovery process.
Below are 5 food groups that can be prioritized in the diet when the digestive system is sensitive.
Foods rich in soluble fiber
Oats, ripe bananas, and sweet potatoes are foods that provide soluble fiber. When entering the digestive tract, soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel, contributing to softening the stool, supporting bowel movements, and limiting constipation.
Some types of soluble fiber also act as prebiotics, becoming a food source for beneficial bacteria in the gut. As a result, they contribute to maintaining the balance of the microbiome and supporting digestive health.
However, when experiencing diarrhea or significant bloating, the amount of fiber needs to be adjusted appropriately. Increasing fiber too quickly can make bloating and gas more uncomfortable.
Soft, easy-to-digest foods
Porridge, soup, soft-cooked rice, or foods cooked until soft are suitable choices when the digestive system is weak. Soft food helps reduce the chewing stage and limits mechanical irritation to the stomach and intestines.
Porridge and soup can also supplement water for the body, which is especially useful when the patient has diarrhea or poor appetite. During the recovery phase, meals can be divided into many small portions instead of eating too much at once.
When digestive symptoms decrease, you should gradually return to a diverse and balanced diet instead of maintaining an overly monotonous diet for a long time.
Foods containing probiotics
Yogurt and some fermented products contain probiotics, which can help maintain the balance of the gut microbiome. This is of particular interest in cases where the microbiome has changed after using antibiotics.
However, probiotic tolerance varies from person to person. People who are experiencing diarrhea or are lactose intolerant need to choose appropriate products and monitor their body's reaction.
In addition to supplementing probiotics, a diverse diet with vegetables, whole grains, and appropriate fiber-rich food sources also contributes to maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
Lean, easily absorbed protein
During times when the body is weak or recovering from illness, protein is necessary for the process of maintaining and repairing tissues. Skinless chicken, steamed fish, eggs, and some low-fat protein sources can be selected to supplement nutrients without creating an overly heavy feeling in the stomach.
Priority should be given to simple preparation methods such as steaming, boiling, or soft cooking, limiting frying, grease, and overly spicy dishes. High-fat foods can make some people feel bloated, experience indigestion, or make digestive symptoms more uncomfortable.
Certain herbal teas
Ginger tea is often used to help reduce feelings of nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. Some people also use chamomile tea as a relaxing beverage.
Tea should be used in moderation, not too strong, and without adding much sugar. For people with existing digestive conditions or those taking medication, the regular use of herbs should be discussed with a doctor to avoid unwanted interactions.
Eating properly gives the digestive system time to recover
When the digestive system encounters problems, not every food considered healthy is suitable for everyone. The important thing is to choose easily tolerated foods, eat in small frequent meals, drink enough water, and limit alcohol, fried foods, heavy spices, or irritating foods.
If diarrhea or vomiting persists, or if there is severe abdominal pain, fever, dehydration, or blood in the stool, the patient needs to be examined to determine the cause and have appropriate treatment. In particular, young children, the elderly, and people who have just had surgery need to be closely monitored when abnormal digestive symptoms appear.