4 foods that easily cause digestive disorders during Tet

Digestive disorders are a common condition that occurs when the diet is nutritionally imbalanced or eating habits are disrupted, especially during Tet.

MSc. Nguyen Anh Tung Duy, Nutrition and Dietetics Specialist, Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, said that many foods rich in calories and lacking in fiber during Tet days increase pressure on the esophageal sphincter leading to reflux. People with irritable bowel syndrome and digestive disorders become more serious if they do not follow a scientific diet. Below are 4 food groups that should limit consumption.

Canned and processed foods

During Tet, many families have the habit of using sausages, sausages, jam or canned meat and fish. Although convenient, these foods often contain a lot of preservatives, saturated fat, salt, dyes, and chemicals that can easily inflame the lining of the stomach and intestinal tract.

When the body absorbs large amounts of these foods, harmful bacteria in the stomach will be created to multiply, while increasing the risk of dehydration, increased blood pressure and blood sugar. From there, stomach ulcers, immunodeficiency or chronic diseases can become worse.

Spicy, hot, greasy food

Tet dishes are often prepared with many spices like garlic, chili, and pepper. If eaten in large quantities, it can irritate the stomach lining and esophagus, causing heartburn, abdominal pain and indigestion. The capsaicin in chili peppers also increases acid secretion in the stomach, causing painful symptoms of severe stomach ulcers.

Dishes during holidays and Tet such as fried banh chung, braised pork, fried spring rolls, spring rolls… contain a lot of fat. Eating large amounts of fried foods overloads the stomach, causing heaviness and affecting the digestive process. An unbalanced diet lacking fiber and essential micronutrients makes bloating and indigestion more serious.

Wine, beer and carbonated soft drinks

Wine, beer and carbonated soft drinks often appear at Tet parties. Drinks can reduce the ability to secrete gastric juices, increase acid secretion, causing bloating and flatulence, leading to indigestion. Esophageal spasm function is also affected, leading to gastroesophageal reflux and heartburn. Drinking too much alcohol and soft drinks also leads to the risk of diabetes, hypertension, and liver disease.

Rare, raw or undercooked foods

Raw dishes pose a potential risk of infection with helminths, bacteria, and parasites if not processed and stored properly. People who eat it may experience digestive disorders such as stomach pain, diarrhea, food poisoning, and infections.

Dr. Tung advises everyone not to skip meals, maintain meals on time, and drink enough water every day. Divide meals into smaller portions to help prevent the stomach from being overloaded. Chew thoroughly so that the enzymes in saliva support good digestion. Prioritize simply prepared dishes such as steaming, boiling, stewing or stir-frying to retain nutrients and be easy to digest. Elderly people, obese people, people with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes should follow and maintain a moderate diet, suitable for their health status.

Increase a variety of fruits and vegetables in meals to add fiber and limit fat absorption that causes overweight and digestive problems after vacation. Everyone should stay active and exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Light walking, cycling or yoga can increase blood circulation and stimulate bowel movements to improve digestion.