Digestive Tips: Food Combos

When it comes to nutrition and digestion, the idea of food combining has been gaining traction in the wellness world. Food combining is a health approach that suggests certain foods should not be consumed together, as it is believed that doing so can impair digestion and prevent proper nutrient absorption.

When it comes to food combining, remember that everyone’s body is different: you may be able to eat a combination of foods that other people aren’t able to eat and vice versa. The key is to check in with yourself and avoid food that is indigestible for you. Also remember, that digestion has to do with what type of food you’re eating, whether its processed, has additives in it, etc. It has to do with how you’re eating the foods (if you’re sitting down to eat, chewing, and eating most of your foods when your digestive system is most active- between 10AM and 2PM).

In this blog, we’ll dive into “Digestive Tips: Food Combos” and explore the science behind them, examining why some combinations might work well for your body while others might hinder digestion. By understanding these principles, you can optimize your meals for better digestion and overall well-being.

Food Combos: Rules and Their Rationale

Here are some of the most commonly discussed food combining rules, along with the rationale behind them:

1. Avoid Mixing Acidic Foods with Starch or Protein

Acidic foods—like tomatoes, citrus fruits, and vinegar—are thought to hinder the digestion of starches or proteins when eaten together. This is because acidic foods can interfere with the body’s natural ability to neutralize stomach acid, potentially leading to digestive discomfort.

2. Avoid Eating Dairy Within Two Hours of a Meal

Dairy is often cited as a food that should not be eaten within two hours of other meals. According to food combining proponents, dairy can interfere with the digestion of other foods because it requires a different digestive environment, and it tends to be heavier on the stomach.

3. Fruits Should Be Eaten Alone

The rule of eating fruit alone stems from the idea that fruits digest quickly and should not be mixed with slower-to-digest foods like proteins or starches. The belief is that combining fruits with other foods can cause fermentation in the stomach. The exception to this rule is apples. Apples are more dense and can be eaten with meals.

The quick digestion of fruits is a result of their high water content and simple sugars, which pass through the stomach relatively quickly. However, some individuals may find that consuming fruit on an empty stomach or away from heavier meals makes digestion smoother. It’s also worth noting that some fruits, like citrus, are more acidic and may irritate the stomach lining if eaten in large amounts or combined with other acidic foods.

4. Avoid Mixing Nightshades with Cooling Foods

Nightshades (such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers) are believed to be heating foods in Ayurveda. The theory behind this food-combining rule is that mixing nightshades with cooling foods, like cucumbers or leafy greens, can cause an imbalance in the body’s natural temperature, leading to digestive discomfort.

Nightshades contain compounds called alkaloids, which can be irritating for some individuals, particularly those with conditions like arthritis. For these people, avoiding certain combinations may help alleviate discomfort.

The key to improving digestion lies in focusing on balance. You can try focusing on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods with moderate portions of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Pay attention to how your body responds to different food combinations and adjust based on your individual needs.

If you enjoyed this blog, check out my blog about Tips for Strong Digestion in Winter.

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Sources:

1. Jenkins, D. J., Kendall, C. W., & Vuksan, V. (2002). *Dietary carbohydrate, protein, and fat effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus*. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 102(6), 802-809.
2. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2014). *Dairy consumption and body weight regulation: A review of the evidence.*
3. Slavin, J. L. (2013). *Dietary fiber and body weight*. Nutrition, 29(3), 511-518.
4. Prousky, J. E., & Joos, S. K. (2009). *Food Combining: A Review of Its Effectiveness for Digestive Health*. Nutrition Reviews, 67(3), 151-159.