Feeling bloated after eating, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel movements are situations many people experience at some point. And although the initial reaction is often to stop consuming certain foods, that is not always the best solution.
Digestive health is closely related to what we eat, but also to our habits and our individual needs. Therefore, before eliminating food groups or adopting restrictive diets, it’s important to understand what’s happening in our body.
From Gedyt (Gastroenterology, Endoscopy, Diagnostic and Therapeutic) they highlight that a balanced diet, accompanied by healthy habits and preventive checks, can contribute to digestive well-being throughout life.
Why it isn’t advisable to remove foods without consulting a specialist
In recent years, diets that eliminate certain foods have gained popularity. However, removing gluten, dairy, or other food groups on your own does not necessarily improve digestive discomfort.
In fact, unnecessary restrictions can reduce the nutritional variety of the diet without addressing the underlying problem. Even in certain situations, they can alter the results of medical tests and make an accurate diagnosis more difficult.
“It is essential to know each patient’s medical history, identify possible pathologies, allergies or intolerances, and from there design a varied dietary plan tailored to their needs,” explains Lic. Maia Espejo, Gedyt’s nutritionist.
The specialist emphasizes that personalization is one of the core aspects of nutritional guidance. This means that two people with the same diagnosis may require different eating plans.
Therefore, when symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a professional rather than starting a restrictive diet without guidance.
The importance of fiber for gut health
One of the most important nutrients for the functioning of the digestive system is fiber, naturally present in many plant-based foods.
Consuming an adequate amount promotes bowel regularity and helps maintain a healthy digestive transit.
Among the fiber-rich foods are:
- Fruits: especially when eaten whole and, where appropriate, with the skin.
- Vegetables: that can be incorporated into lunches and dinners.
- Legumes: such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans.
- Whole grains: such as oats, brown rice, and products made with whole grains.
However, more fiber does not always translate into better results.
Lic. Maia Espejo warns that its intake must be tailored to each person, since both insufficient and excessive consumption can generate digestive discomfort.
Therefore, it is important to find a balance according to individual characteristics and needs.
Hydration: a simple habit that supports digestive health
Drinking enough water throughout the day also plays an important role in intestinal well-being.
Adequate hydration contributes to the functioning of bowel movements and helps fiber fulfill its role.
Hence, in addition to paying attention to the foods we consume, it is essential to incorporate the habit of staying hydrated regularly.
The amount of liquid needed can vary according to age, physical activity, health conditions, and other personal factors.
Healthy eating and prevention of colon cancer
Caring for digestive health is not limited to avoiding everyday discomfort. It is also part of a broader prevention strategy.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains contributes to fiber intake and may help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
However, maintaining a healthy diet does not replace preventive medical screenings.
From Gedyt they recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at 45 years old for people at average risk, while those with family history or other risk factors may require earlier evaluation.
Early detection is fundamental, so it is important to discuss with a professional which tests are appropriate in each case.
A holistic approach to caring for digestive health
There is no single diet that works for everyone. Age, family history, health conditions, and the presence of digestive diseases are factors that must be considered when defining a dietary plan.
Therefore, Gedyt emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between nutritionists and gastroenterologists, which allows integrating diagnosis, medical treatment, and nutritional support.
The goal is to identify what changes each patient truly needs, avoid unwarranted restrictions, and build healthy habits that can be sustained over time.
Because caring for digestive health does not necessarily mean eating less or eliminating foods, but learning to eat in a balanced way, listening to the body’s signals, and carrying out the necessary checks.
Source: www.gedyt.com.ar
