Gastrointestinal disturbances refer to disruptions in the normal functioning of the digestive system. This can include issues such as indigestion, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain. Various factors, including diet, infections, medications, or underlying health conditions, can contribute to these disturbances.
Causes of Bloating arising from Diets among Nigerians
Specific diets causing bloating can vary among individuals, but certain factors in Nigerian diets might contribute to bloating:
1. High-Fiber Diets: While fiber is essential for digestion, a sudden increase in fiber intake, such as consuming large quantities of fibrous vegetables, can lead to bloating, especially if the digestive system is not accustomed to it.
2. Spicy Foods: Some Nigerian dishes are rich in spices like pepper, and for some individuals, spices can irritate the digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort.
3. Legumes and Beans: Foods like beans, commonly consumed in Nigeria, contain complex carbohydrates that can produce gas during digestion, causing bloating.
4. Carbonated Drinks: Beverages with carbonation can introduce air into the digestive system, leading to bloating.
5. Processed Foods: High consumption of processed foods, which may contain artificial additives and preservatives such as semovita, semolina and more as have been reported, can disrupt digestion and contribute to bloating.
6. Lactose-Containing Foods: Dairy products, if not well-tolerated due to lactose intolerance, can lead to bloating as the body struggles to digest lactose.
7. Sweet: Intake of sweet foods like sweet potatoes and in some cases with a combination with beans have been reported to cause bloating in some individuals.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disturbances
Symptoms of gastrointestinal disturbances or bloating arising from the mentioned diets may include:
1. Abdominal Discomfort: A feeling of fullness, tightness, or discomfort in the abdominal area.
2. Gas and Flatulence: Increased production of gas, leading to frequent belching or flatulence.
3. Bowel Changes: Variations in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
4. Bloating: Visible swelling or distention of the abdomen due to gas accumulation.
5. Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an urge to vomit.
6. Cramping: Sharp or dull pains in the abdominal region or chest region as a result of mobile gases within the region.
7. Irregular Bowel Movements: Changes in the frequency or consistency of stools.
8. Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest or throat, often associated with spicy or acidic foods.
9. Burping: Frequent burping, especially after meals.
10. Gastrointestinal disturbances are also usually thought to be gastric ulcer as they also come with ulcerative symptoms.
Nutritional Solutions to Gastrointestinal Disturbances
For the purpose of this article, eating Tomtom together with Bitter Kola has been reported to stop gastrointestinal disturbances. It was reported that easting a tomtom and bitter kola have positive effect on gastrointenstinal gases.
Others solutions that doctor may recommend include:
1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and aid digestion.
2. Peppermint: Peppermint can have a calming effect on the digestive system and may help alleviate bloating.
3. Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may ease digestive discomfort. Try ginger tea or add it to meals.
4. Probiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir to promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
5. Slow Eating: Chew food slowly and thoroughly to aid digestion and reduce the intake of swallowed air.
6. Avoiding Trigger Foods: Identify and limit or avoid foods that commonly cause bloating or discomfort in your diet.
7. Regular Exercise: Physical activity can promote regular bowel movements and overall digestive health.
8. Reducing Portion Sizes: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large portions may help prevent bloating.
These remedies are general suggestions and may vary in effectiveness for individuals. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek advice from a medical doctor by registering and booking an appointment at www.virtualdoctors.ng/account