When fruit causes difficult digestion: let's find out the reasons

Introduction

Fruit is, without a doubt, one of the fundamental pillars of a healthy and balanced diet. It is in fact rich in vitamins, fibre, minerals and antioxidants, essential nutrients for the proper functioning of the body and for the prevention of a series of diseases. Its regular intake reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, promotes the health of the immune system, contributes to the correct functioning of the digestive system and offers healthy nourishment for the skin. However, despite these countless benefits, you may find yourself facing a not exactly pleasant experience: stomach pain after eating fruit. It's hard to imagine that such a healthy food could cause discomfort, but it's important to know that fruit, under certain circumstances, can cause stomach pain. The causes behind this phenomenon are multiple and can vary from person to person, depending on specific health conditions and individual characteristics of the digestive system. Some fruits, such as cherries or grapes, are rich in natural sugars, which, if consumed in large quantities, can cause bloating, cramps and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Likewise, the presence of insoluble fiber can overstimulate the intestine, causing irritation and pain. Acidic fruit, on the other hand, can intensify the problem in subjects who have excessive production of gastric juices or suffer from ulcers and gastritis. Furthermore, we must not forget the possibility of food intolerance to certain types of fruit, a pathology which, if not diagnosed, can certainly cause discomfort in the digestive tract. Likewise, consuming non-organic fruit or fruit treated with pesticides and chemicals could lead to unpleasant symptoms, including stomach pain. In conclusion, despite generally being a food that is friendly to our health, fruit can become a source of discomfort for our stomach. Understanding and identifying the causes of this phenomenon are the first steps in managing and preventing such episodes, which must in no way discourage fruit consumption. Therefore, we continue to include it in our diets, but with the awareness of having to listen to our body and its signals.

Difficulty digesting fructose

Fructose is one of the sugars naturally present in fruit. Although it is an important source of energy, some people have difficulty digesting it, which can sometimes cause stomach upset. One of the most common problems related to fructose is what is called "fructose malabsorption." This phenomenon occurs when the small intestine fails to properly metabolize and absorb this simple sugar. When fructose isn't absorbed as it should, it passes into the colon undigested, where it ends up fermented. This fermentation process can cause a number of problems, including gas, bloating and stomach pain, symptoms well known to stomach ache sufferers. The most common cause of fructose malabsorption is a deficiency of the enzyme needed to break down the sugar. If the body does not produce enough of this enzyme, fructose remains in the stomach, causing discomfort and, in some cases, pain. Another possible cause of fructose-related stomach pain is hereditary fructose intolerance. This is a genetic condition that affects fructose metabolism and can lead to more severe health problems. Hereditary fructose intolerance is in fact a state in which the body is unable to convert fructose into glucose, due to the absence of an enzyme called aldolase B. Normally, fructose is transformed into glucose in the liver and it is then used as a source of energy by the body. If this process doesn't happen, fructose can build up in the liver and kidneys, causing potentially serious damage. If you suffer from stomach pain after eating fruit, it is important to consult a health professional. You may need to change your diet or take a certain type of therapy to manage the problem. Also, if you suspect you have a hereditary fructose intolerance, it is important to talk to your doctor. In fact, there are specific tests that can help diagnose this condition. Remember: even though fruit is an important part of a balanced diet, if it makes you feel sick, it's important to understand the reason behind it. A nutritionist can help you create a meal plan that takes into account your specific needs.

Diet too rich in fibre

Another possible cause of stomach pain after consuming fruit could be a diet that is too rich in fiber. While fiber is critical to our gut health, there is a limit on our intake. In fact, excessive consumption can lead to stomach ache and other digestive problems. Dietary fibers are substances found in plant foods that our body cannot digest or absorb. Instead of being used for energy or to build other molecules, they pass almost unchanged through the stomach, small intestine and colon and out of the body. Fibers are classified into two main categories: soluble and insoluble. Both types are crucial for our intestinal health, promoting digestion and helping to prevent constipation. However, when too much fiber is consumed, especially if the body is not used to it, problems can occur. Excess fiber can cause abdominal cramps, bloating, excessive gas production and stomach pain. This happens because a high amount of fiber can overload your digestive system. Fruit is an important source of dietary fiber; therefore, if your daily fiber intake is already high and then you add a large amount of fruit, your body may respond with pain and discomfort. Some types of fruit are particularly rich in fiber. For example, apples, pears, bananas and figs are among the fruits high in fiber. If you already consume a wide variety of fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and then also eat these fruits, your overall fiber intake may be too much. So, if you suffer from stomach pain after eating fruit, excessive fiber intake may be to blame. Remember that the recommended daily fiber intake ranges from 25 to 38 grams for adults, depending on age and gender. Before completely eliminating fruit from your diet, it may be helpful to review your overall fiber intake and make any adjustments. If the problem persists, it is essential to consult a doctor or registered dietitian for professional advice. Remember that every body is different and what works for one person may not work for another.

Food intolerance

The term "food intolerance" refers to a series of negative physical responses that our body can exhibit following the ingestion of certain types of food, in our case fruit. Reactions can range from mild to severe and can manifest as various symptoms, including stomach pain. A fruit food intolerance can occur due to several reasons. While not as common as other intolerances, such as lactose or gluten, there are a small number of people who may react negatively to certain types of fruit. For example, some people may have difficulty digesting fructose, the natural sugar found in many fruits, causing symptoms such as bloating, cramps, or even diarrhea. Along the same lines, there is fructose malabsorption syndrome, a disorder in which the body struggles to absorb fructose. This can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach pain, bloating and diarrhea. Individuals with this condition may find that avoiding or reducing their intake of high-fructose fruits, such as apples and pears, can help relieve symptoms. Another possible cause of fruit intolerance is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Foods high in FODMAPs (a group of carbohydrates that can be difficult for some people to digest) can trigger IBS symptoms. Many fruits, such as apples, pears and mangoes, are high in FODMAPs and can therefore cause stomach pain in people with IBS. Fruit also contains insoluble fiber, which can be difficult to digest for those with sensitive digestive systems, leading to symptoms such as stomach pain. It should be borne in mind that a food intolerance is different from a food allergy. While food intolerance can cause discomfort, it is not usually dangerous, while a food allergy can cause a serious and life-threatening reaction. If you suspect you have a fruit intolerance, it's important to talk to your doctor or dietitian. They may recommend a food diary to keep track of foods ingested and subsequent symptoms, or they may suggest a food intolerance test or an elimination diet to identify the culprit. Remember, however, that fruit is an important part of a balanced diet and should only be eliminated under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Food allergy

Food allergy is a reaction of the body's immune system that occurs immediately after eating a certain food. While you may sometimes have an upset stomach due to a sensitive stomach or food intolerance, a food allergy can induce much more serious and potentially dangerous symptoms. Foods that cause the most common allergic reactions include fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, kiwi, and melons. A food allergy to certain fruits can cause feelings of discomfort immediately after eating them, a condition that goes beyond a simple food intolerance or sensitivity. But how exactly does it work? When a person with a food allergy eats the fruit they are allergic to, the immune system reacts incorrectly by recognizing the proteins in that fruit as a threat. The body responds by releasing chemicals such as histamine to "defend" itself. These chemicals can cause various allergy symptoms ranging from itching and swelling of the mouth, throat and lips to more serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and severe abdominal pain. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. In some cases, a food allergy can cause a serious, life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. If this occurs, symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. The safest way to manage a food allergy is to completely avoid the food you are allergic to. However, in some cases it can be difficult, especially if the food allergy is to common fruits which are present in many foods in the form of hidden ingredients. In this case, you need to carefully read the labels and inquire about the presence of potential allergens. If you suspect you have a food allergy to any fruit, you need to take an allergy test. An allergist can perform a skin test, during which a small amount of the possible allergen is inserted under the skin with a thin needle. If your skin becomes red and swollen, it means you are allergic to that particular food. Remember that a food allergy is different from a food sensitivity or intolerance. If you have digestive discomfort when eating fruits, it may be due to a food allergy. Don't ignore your body's signs: If you suspect you have a food allergy, talk to your doctor to find the cause of your symptoms and start appropriate treatment.

Gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux is a very common condition, which can manifest itself with symptoms such as heartburn, acid regurgitation and chest pain. This happens when food or stomach fluid travels back up into the esophagus, a long tube that connects the throat to the stomach. There is a type of valve at the base of the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which opens to allow food to enter the stomach and then closes. If this valve opens too often or doesn't close properly, stomach acid can back up into the esophagus, causing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Some fruits are identified as possible triggers of gastroesophageal reflux. There is not a unanimous consensus on all fruits, but among those most commonly indicated there are citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits and mandarins. These fruits contain high levels of acidity which can further irritate existing inflammation in the esophagus and stomach. Additionally, their acidity can stimulate increased acid production in the stomach, making the problem worse. Fiber-rich fruits, such as apples and pears, can also make reflux symptoms worse in some people. This is because fiber remains in the stomach for a longer period of time, which can increase pressure within the stomach and promote the return of stomach contents to the esophagus. Not all fruits have the same impact on gastroesophageal reflux, and reactions can vary greatly from person to person. While some people may find that eliminating certain fruits from their diet helps reduce symptoms, others may experience no improvement. It's important to remember that fruit is an essential part of a balanced diet and that most people don't need to avoid fruit completely. If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux, it may be helpful to keep a food diary to identify fruits or other foods that seem to make your symptoms worse. Always consult your doctor or dietician about managing gastroesophageal reflux and creating a personalized diet. Ultimately, despite being a healthy and necessary food in our diet, some types of fruit can trigger or aggravate the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. Understanding your body and reacting to symptoms accordingly can help you manage this condition and reduce its negative effects on your quality of life.