Eating nuts causes diverticulitis, spicy food causes stomach ulcers, or chewing gum takes years to digest – these are common misconceptions.
The digestive system plays a crucial role in receiving and digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste products. This organ is vital to the body, yet some people still misunderstand its function and the diseases associated with it.
It takes years to digest chewing gum: Some people believe that Chewing gum, once swallowed, can stick in the intestines for a long time because it doesn't dissolve like other foods and is difficult to break down. However, chewing gum doesn't stick inside the intestines. The digestive system moves it around like other foods and eliminates it after a few days.
Spicy foods can cause ulcers : Most ulcers in the stomach lining occur due to Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection or improper use of painkillers. Spicy foods like chili peppers and black pepper can worsen ulcer symptoms and cause abdominal pain, but they don't necessarily cause ulcers.
Only alcoholics get cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a condition where healthy liver cells are damaged and scar tissue forms. Alcohol abuse is the most common cause of cirrhosis, but other causes include hepatitis B and C.
Drinking alcohol heavily increases the risk of cirrhosis, but not all drinkers develop this disease.
Alcohol is a common cause of cirrhosis. (Image: Freepik)
Nuts that cause diverticulitis: Some believe that nuts, corn, popcorn, and foods with small seeds like strawberries should be avoided to prevent small pieces from getting stuck in diverticula and causing pain. However, science proves the opposite; a diet high in fiber from nuts and fruits helps reduce the risk of disease, including digestive disorders.
Beans cause the most gas: Dairy products cause more gas than beans and other foods, especially in older adults who have a reduced ability to absorb the sugar in milk (lactose).
Smoking reduces heartburn: People should quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke as it can worsen heartburn. The nicotine in cigarettes relaxes the muscles in the upper stomach, allowing acid to reflux into the esophagus, increasing heartburn.
Heartburn caused by acid reflux results in a burning sensation in the throat. (Illustration: Freepik)
Sleeping sitting up to avoid heartburn: There is no evidence to suggest that people with heartburn should sleep sitting up to avoid symptoms. Patients may find relief by elevating their head and chest when lying down. Changing eating habits such as splitting meals, eating slowly, and chewing thoroughly can also help reduce heartburn.
Avoid fiber when you have diarrhea : Fiber helps increase bowel motility, promotes smooth digestion, and reduces constipation. People with diarrhea do not need to restrict fiber. Some fruits and vegetables contain fiber that helps prevent loose stools, absorbs fluids in the intestines to firm up stools, and helps control diarrhea symptoms sooner.
( According to WebMD )
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