"Lao Zhang, are you eating kimchi again?" In my office, I often encounter such a scene. Lao Zhang, a retired teacher in his 60s, came to me for treatment because of frequent stomach pains. Lao Zhang loves kimchi and must eat almost every meal, but he doesn't know that it has quietly become the culprit of his stomach pain.
Kimchi, as a food loved by everyone, is widely popular for its unique taste and convenience. But did you know that this delicacy may be quietly hurting your stomach. Yes, you heard it right, those seemingly harmless, delicious pickles may be the "catalyst" for gastritis.
In our daily lives, kimchi is often misunderstood as a healthy food. However, the hidden truth behind it may not be as rosy as we think. Kimchi's acidic and high salt content can be a potential threat for those with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing stomach conditions. What's more, some of the additives and preservatives in kimchi may adversely affect our gastric mucosa.
Kimchi and gastritis: not just blindly spicy
Kimchi, as a popular fermented food, is often on our tables. However, the discussion about kimchi and stomach health has always been a hot topic in the field of medicine and nutrition. Some of the ingredients and properties in kimchi may make it a potential "catalyst" for gastritis.
Acidity and salt: invisible irritation of the gastric mucosa
During the production process, kimchi requires a lot of salt and a certain acidic environment to maintain its unique flavor and storage period. However, these properties can have a detrimental effect on stomach health. Excessive salt intake can increase the acidity of gastric juice, which can irritate the gastric mucosa, which may lead to gastritis or aggravate gastritis symptoms in the long run.
Preservatives & Additives: Small Ingredients, Big Problems
In the commercially produced kimchi, some preservatives and other chemical additives are often added to extend the shelf life. These substances, although within the legal limit, can cause damage to the gastric mucosa when ingested over a long period of time. Studies have shown that some chemical additives may irritate the gastric mucosa and increase the risk of gastritis.
Analysis of relevant research: the data speaks
A series of studies have shown that excessive consumption of kimchi is associated with the incidence of gastritis and even stomach cancer. These studies examined the link between kimchi consumption and stomach disorders in different populations and found that people who consumed kimchi frequently had a higher incidence of gastritis. This reminds us that we should consume kimchi in moderation in our daily diet, especially for people with pre-existing stomach problems or stomach sensitivities.
Healthy Stomach Tract, Start Everyday!
Dietary adjustment: Gentle stomach nourishment
Reasonable diet: Eat a balanced diet of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods. For example, choose cooked vegetables instead of raw and cold salads.
Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Spread out meals to reduce the pressure on your stomach with each meal. For example, five meals a day, each in small portions.
Avoid irritating foods: Reduce your intake of spicy, fried foods, such as chili peppers and fried foods.
Regularity of life: Stabilize the stomach environment
Eat regularly: Eating at the same time each day helps the stomach establish a steady digestive rhythm.
Get enough sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep at night and avoid eating too late to reduce stomach acid secretion.
Mental Balance: Stress Reduction and Stomach Protection
Reduce stress: Release daily stress through meditation, yoga, or a relaxing walk.
Emotion management: Maintain a positive mindset and learn to express emotions appropriately to avoid depression that can lead to stomach upset.
Xi habits: eliminate bad influences
Avoid alcohol and tobacco: Smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the irritation of the gastric mucosa, leading to exacerbation of gastritis.
Moderate exercise: Moderate aerobic exercise such as brisk walking and swimming promotes overall blood circulation and digestive health.