Nutrition FAQs

IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN CANCER AND GLUTEN?

Gluten, a protein in wheat that gives it the characteristic elasticity is blamed for all these troubles. Studies show that there is no connection between gluten and risk of most cancers. However, they show increased risk of intestinal cancer in people with celiac diseases and true gluten intolerance. For people with celiac disease and true gluten intolerance, gluten must be completely avoided because they can cause devastating health effects.

HOW CAFFEINE AFFECTS A PREGNANCY

A study published in the The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that caffeine intake by a mother affects a developing foetus. The findings, from an observational study indicate that it is linked to lower birth weight, lower IQ and also premature labour.

Always remember that caffeine content is higher in black tea than green tea, and also in brewed coffee than instant coffee. Choose wisely.

HOW CONSUMING BROILER CHICKEN AFFECTS HORMONES

Meats like broiler chicken and fish fed on unnatural diets with high levels of antibiotics and growth hormones, can cause havoc to the endocrine system, especially secretion of estrogen and progesterone. Such foods can lead to early puberty, reproductive health issues and increased risk of chronic conditions like cancer- BBC

 

 

1.  Lose weight

The prevalence of acid reflux is higher in overweight and obese individuals. Excess belly fat common in overweight and obese people can put pressure on the stomach and increase the risk of reflux. Obesity increases risk of hiatal hernia, a condition that causes a back flow of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Losing weight reduces pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter which prevents stomach acids from leaking through.

 2. Eat small meals

Eating large quantities of food makes your stomach distend more. It also takes longer to digest more food, hence the stomach stays distended longer. The more the stomach is distended, the more likely that the valve between the stomach and esophagus won’t close properly allowing stomach juices to rise back into the oesophagus.

3. Stay up after eating

Sitting upright or standing after a meal helps keep acid in the stomach where it belongs. It is therefore important to eat at least two hours before bedtime and not to lie down after a meal to help gravity keep the acids in place.

 4. Avoid trigger foods

Eating the right kinds of food is key in controlling acid reflux since the foods you eat affect the amount of acid your stomach produces. Food triggers are different for everyone hence it is important to identify and avoid your food triggers. Keeping a food diary can help you track the food you eat and typical symptoms you experience thereafter.

Common triggers: Citrus fruits, caffeinated drinks, tomatoes, garlic, alcohol and smoking.

5. Avoid high fat foods

Fatty foods delay emptying of the stomach and can also cause the valve that prevents back flow of stomach acid to relax, allowing stomach acid into the esophagus.

Acid reflux should not be ignored as it can cause severe conditions such as esophageal cancer and ulcers if not treated.