Gut health can be talked about, of course, in relation to food, but liquids have a crucial role to play here as well. Liquids enter our body quickly, impacting our gut lining and the trillions of microorganisms present there. Many liquids can either fortify healthy bacteria or trigger unhealthy conditions. A Harvard-trained AIIMS gastroenterologist, Dr Saurabh Sethi, recently rated various liquids commonly consumed by us, according to how they impact our gut. Through this rating, it becomes clear how our daily routines can either strengthen or weaken our gut health.
How common everyday drinks help or harm your gut health
Black coffee
Black coffee can also be beneficial for digestion, as it helps promote the movement of the digestive tract and increase wakefulness. Coffee acts as a stimulus for the colon to contract, and this helps in avoiding a slow digestive tract. Coffee also increases the metabolic rate, and this can be beneficial when taken in the right amounts. But all these benefits can be lost when sugar, syrups, and a large amount of cream are added.
Green tea
Green tea is particularly helpful because of its antioxidants and mild caffeine levels. It helps to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and works to decrease the inflammation that occurs within the digestive tract. Green tea is not like other sugary or caffeinated beverages that cause energy boosts and blood sugar spikes, which makes it an excellent choice each day to support gut health.
Herbal teas
Herbal teas like ginger tea, peppermint tea, and fennel tea are known for their ability to calm the digestive system. These teas relax the muscles of the gut, relieve bloating, and soothe the stomach after eating. These teas are herbal and caffeine-free, ensuring that they do not tax the stomach system whenever they are taken.
Kefir and probiotic diversity
Kefir has a rich probiotic profile, setting it apart from any other food. Kefir’s fermentation process provides a rich source of beneficial bacteria and yeast that helps boost the immune system of the gut. According to a gastroenterologist, Dr. Pal, there are many probiotic strains found in kefir, more than those found in yoghurt.
Water
Water is necessary for digestion. Water assists in the breakdown of food, absorption of nutrients, and the effortless passage of waste. It is important to note that there is no substitute for water in digestion.
Unsweetened milk
Unsweetened milk is a rich source of protein and calcium; however, it is highly unpredictable in terms of effects. Lactose intolerance is common in people, and it may cause them to feel bloated and uncomfortable. In fact, people who are not lactose intolerant can find it helpful in their diets.
Coconut water
Coconut water provides hydration and electrolytes, especially when you need to rehydrate after exercise or hard physical labor. Coconut water, in addition, is high in sugars, which will increase your sugar levels if you consume too much of it, leading to uneven levels in your body.
Fruit juice
Fruit juice contains no fibres present in fruits and hence facilitates easy absorption of sugars. It may lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels and diminished health benefits for the digestive system.
Diet soda
Diet sodas appear to be benign because of their calorie content. However, sugar substitute ingredients may affect gut microbe populations, creating dangers to digestion and gut health in the long run.
Sugary and energy drinks
Sugary drinks are one type. These sugary and energy drinks do not contain any beneficial qualities for digestion and may also cause digestive problems and other issues within the gut. These sugary and energy drinks contain a high amount of sugar that acts as food for harmful bacteria that cause inflammation, making it the most damaging food choice among all other foods.
