Harvard Trained Gastroenterologist Shares 6 'Healthy' Foods That Are Secretely Wrecking Your Guts

Some of the classic signs of poor gut health are bloating, gas, abdominal pain and nausea, and to treat the symptoms, many resort to healthy food items like yoghurts, protein bars and more. However, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist claims that food items that we typically assume are healthy may severely wreck our guts.

6 ‘Healthy’ Foods A Harvard Gastroenterologist Says Are Quietly Damaging Your Gut

Did you know that your gut microbiome is the foundation of your health? Scientists explain a good gut health is referred to when you have a balance between the good and bad bacteria and yeast in your digestive system. This means that when your gut isn’t healthy, then your immune system and hormones may stop functioning normally.

Some of the classic signs of poor gut health are bloating, gas, abdominal pain and nausea, and to treat the symptoms, many resort to healthy food items like yoghurts, protein bars and more. However, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist claims that food items that we typically assume are healthy may severely wreck our guts.

In an Instagram post shared on October 23, Dr. Saurabh Sethi revealed six healthy foods that may be affecting your gut health negatively:

Flavoured Yoghurt

According to Dr. Sethi, flavoured yoghurts are packed with flavour and added sugar, which can spike your blood sugar levels as well as feed bad bacteria that can trigger bloating. Instead, he recommends swapping with plain yoghurt or fresh fruit.

Protein Bars

Most protein bars contain sugar alcohol, such as sorbitol and maltitol, substances that can trigger gas, bloating, etc. Dr Sethi suggests that the best way to increase your protein intake is by consuming eggs, tofu, and nuts.

Flavoured Plant-Based Milks

Although flavoured plant-based milk may sound trendy and tempting, most of these products are packed with emulsifiers and added sugar which can weaken your gut lining.

Granola

Dr. Sethi also points out that most granola bars are marketed as high fibre. But they contain sugar and refined oils, ingredients that are known to spike blood sugar levels and gut inflammation. To achieve your daily fibre intake, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist recommends berries, oats, and chia seeds.

Zero Cal Drinks And Diet Sodas

Another food item that is widely marketed as a healthy food is diet sodas or sugar-free beverages. But, Dr. Sethi warns that these beverages contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose that can alter gut microbes, resulting in cravings and bloating. You can swap with sparkling water, lemon or mint.

Packaged Salad

Package salad dressing may seem appealing, but a Harvard-trained doctor said that most salad dressing products contain seed oils, an additive that can fuel gut inflammation. You can swap with olive oil, spices and lemon.

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FAQs

Why is gut inflammation dangerous?

Chronic gut inflammation can damage the intestinal lining, allowing toxins and bacteria to leak into the bloodstream, a condition known as leaky gut syndrome.