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Bloating and loose stools. Heartburn while eating spicy foods. Doubt that I have leaky gut. How to correct it

Reshma R S

1 year ago

Bloating and loose stools. Heartburn while eating spicy foods. Doubt that I have leaky gut. How to correct it

Digestive issues
0

Happy Tummy Expert

1 year ago

Dear Reshma R S, Thank you for the question

Bloating and/or Diarrhoea can be a symptom of gastrointestinal digestive issues such as Gastritis, indigestion, constipation, IBS, intolerances etc., and/or due to an underlying health condition which requires medical attention. Certain food intolerances can cause bloating after consuming specific foods. In lactose intolerance it is seen after consuming milk and milk products like cheese, paneer etc. And in gluten intolerance it is seen after consuming, wheat, rye, barley etc.

Some of the Gastric issues can be a symptom of GERD (Gastro oesophageal reflux disease). GERD is a chronic symptom of mucosal damage. It is caused due to the entry of stomach acid into the esophagus. The most-common symptoms of GERD include Heartburn, difficulty in swallowing and a sour taste in the mouth or back of the throat due to fluids and undigested foods rising back in to the mouth.

For further diagnosis and assistance kindly contact your specialized health care professional

Here are a few dietary tips to help manage GERD, Bloating & Diarrhoea

  • Eat all your meals on regular intervals.
  • Eat slowly and chew the food well, try not to use straws for beverages to avoid swallowing extra air
  • Do not suck on ice or candy.
  • Limit the intake of high fat foods from your daily diet
  • One of the dietary factors associated with bloating is the intake and poor absorption of short chain carbohydrates called FODMAP foods. Consumption of foods that as may lead to excess gas production and poor gas clearance. In case of severe bloating abdominal pain and/or IBS try to limit the intake of FODMAP containing foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, corn, turnips, onions, peas, wheat, dairy, radishes, lentils, pears etc.
  • Replacement of lost fluids and electrolytes is necessary. Drink plenty of fluids such as water, fruit juices, buttermilk, vegetable clear broths etc.
  • Oral intake of fluids, particularly those high in sodium and potassium such as an electrolyte solution is recommended
  • Limit excess fiber and dairy intake
  • Cooked apples, rich in pectin help in controlling diarrhoea
  • Try to limit the foods like caffeine, spices, raw onions etc.
  • Include prebiotics such as banana, soyabean, garlic etc., good sources of probiotics like yogurt, buttermilk etc., to maintain a healthy gut.
  • Weight management is necessary in people for whom the underlying cause of GERD may have been obesity.
  • Consume low fat dairy in substitute of full fat options to prevent or manage GERD symptoms.
  • Avoid large, heavy meals, and practice portion guidance.
  • Avoid lying down immediately after your meal consumption
  • Try to follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and quality.
  • Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day
  • Have a gap of minimum 2-3 hours between bedtime and your last meal

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead

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