Nutrition experts warn that not only food, but also what we drink every day has a direct impact on intestinal health.
Although foods like sourdough bread or kimchi are promoted as "gut-friendly," experts point out that some drinks - often considered healthy - can disrupt the balance of the microbiome and cause bloating, discomfort, fatigue and long-term health problems.
According to nutritionists who spoke to the Daily Mail, the gut microbiome – made up of trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi – is strongly influenced by the drinks we regularly consume. When this balance is disrupted, digestive problems can occur and, according to studies, the risk of weight gain, type 2 diabetes and heart disease increases.
Experts list some of the most problematic drinks for intestinal health:
Juice trend shots
Advertised as “gut shots,” these drinks are often high in concentrated sugar, fiber-free, and highly acidic. They can irritate the stomach, especially when consumed sober, and there is no strong evidence that they actually improve good gut bacteria.
Oat milk
Although not harmful in itself, many "barista" versions contain oils, thickeners, and emulsifiers that can upset digestion, especially in people with sensitive guts.
Unfiltered coffee
Coffee stimulates stomach acid and bowel movements. For some, this is positive, but for others it can worsen reflux, abdominal pain, or irritable bowel symptoms.
'Diet' or sugar-free drinks
Artificial sweeteners can change the composition of gut bacteria in some people. The effect varies from person to person, so these drinks are recommended only occasionally, not every day.
Beer and lager
Alcohol is one of the strongest factors that harms gut health. Beer combines alcohol, gas, and fermentable carbohydrates, increasing bloating and inflammation.
Sugary drinks
Sugary sodas reduce bacterial diversity in the gut and favor bacteria linked to inflammation and metabolic diseases. Acidity and gas worsen bloating.
Energy drinks
The combination of high caffeine, sugar or sweeteners, acidity, and additives makes them particularly hard on the digestive system, especially when consumed frequently.
Protein shakes
Many contain artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and thickeners that cause gas and diarrhea. Whey protein can be a problem for people with lactose sensitivity.
What do the experts recommend?
Water, herbal teas, light green tea, and fermented drinks like kefir or kombucha are considered the safest choices for your gut. According to experts, gut health benefits more from simplicity, consistency, and a diet rich in whole foods than from trendy “functional” drinks.
A soda or a glass of alcohol every now and then won't ruin a balanced diet, but the problem arises when these choices become a daily routine. /GazetaExpress/
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