Gastroenterology Specialist Prof. Dr. Hamdi Levent Doğanay made statements about foods that affect intestinal health for better or worse.
‘CONSUMING PROBIOTIC FOODS RELAXES THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM’
Prof. stated that a diet that relaxes the digestive system should prevent the stomach and intestines from being overloaded and support the digestive processes. Dr. Doğanay said, “For this purpose, foods rich in fiber and foods containing probiotics and prebiotics should be preferred. Fiber ensures regular functioning of the digestive system and prevents problems such as constipation. Probiotics facilitate the digestive process by helping balance the intestinal flora. Additionally, fatty and heavy foods should be avoided. Because such foods can strain the stomach and cause gas, bloating and acidity problems. “Eating food slowly and by chewing well also relaxes the digestive system,” he said.
‘FIBER FOODS SHOULD BE PREFERRED’
Referring to foods that are good for intestinal health, Prof. Dr. Doğanay said, “Foods that support intestinal health are foods that facilitate digestion, keep the intestinal flora in balance and do not harm the digestive system. Fibrous foods (whole grains, vegetables, fruits) regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Probiotics (homemade yoghurt, kefir, Kimchi, sauerkraut, Kombucha tea, home pickles) support the intestinal flora and ensure the proliferation of beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics (garlic, onion, artichoke, banana, oat) provide nutrition to these bacteria and improve intestinal health. Additionally, healthy fats like olive oil protect the gut by reducing inflammation. “Drinking water ensures that the intestines stay moist and digestion works properly,” he said.
‘PREPARED AND PROCESSED FOODS MAY NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE INTESTINES’
Explaining the foods that threaten intestinal health, Prof. Dr. Doğanay said, “Foods that threaten intestinal health can damage the digestive system, disrupt the intestinal flora and cause inflammation. Heavily processed foods (fast food, convenience foods) are generally low in fiber, making digestion difficult and can cause harmful bacteria to proliferate. Processed meat products increase the risk of bowel cancer. High sugar foods (sugary drinks, desserts) can create an imbalance in the intestinal flora and weaken the immune system. Excess alcohol and caffeine can irritate the intestines, increase stomach acid and lead to diarrhea. “In addition, heavy fatty foods (fried foods, processed meats) make digestion difficult and prevent the intestines from functioning properly,” he said.
‘Drinking water cleans the intestines’
Stating that fibrous foods and probiotics are important to quickly clean the intestines, Prof. Dr. Doğanay said, “Fiber ensures regular functioning of the intestines, helps remove toxins and prevents problems such as constipation. Additionally, drinking water helps digestion work properly and accelerates the cleansing of the intestines. Prebiotic foods (onion, garlic, artichoke) feed beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Detox teas or natural laxatives (aloe vera, psyllium husk) may help cleanse the bowels in some people, but they are not recommended for long-term use. “Exercising also encourages bowel movements and cleans the intestines,” he said.
‘KEEPING THE INTESTINES OPERATING REGULARLY STRENGTHENES THE IMMUNE SYSTEM’
Prof. noted why foods that activate the intestines are important. Dr. Doğanay shared the following information:
“The most important role of foods that activate the intestines is to regulate digestion and encourage bowel movements. Fibrous foods (vegetables, fruits, legumes) stimulate the movement of intestinal muscles and accelerate digestion. By balancing the intestinal flora, probiotics prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and protect intestinal health. Adequate fluid intake helps the intestines function properly and reduces the risk of constipation by softening the stool. Healthy fats such as olive oil facilitate the movement of the intestines. “Exercising the intestines regularly prevents digestive problems and strengthens the immune system.”