Many popular nutritional recommendations do not correspond to reality, warned gastroenterologist Sofia Bakaeva.
The expert dispelled the five most popular myths about nutrition and gastrointestinal health in her Telegram channel.
What nutrition myths are worth stopping believing?
Firstly, it is a very common misconception that you cannot drink water while eating.
In fact, drinking water during meals does not dilute gastric juices or slow down digestion.
Secondly, the idea that you need to eat three times a day is a myth.
According to Bakaeva, you can eat twice a day, or 5-6 times, the main thing is a balanced diet.
Thirdly, it's time to stop believing that spicy food damages the stomach.
The spiciness in food, the gastroenterologist explained, is usually associated with capsaicin. By acting on receptors, it causes a burning sensation. However, this substance does not damage the gastric mucosa.
Fourth, contrary to popular belief, digestion does not stop during sleep.
According to the doctor, all advice on the last meal before bed is given to prevent heartburn, and not because the gastrointestinal tract works on a clock.
The fifth myth is that if nothing hurts, then everything is fine with the gastrointestinal tract.
Some diseases of the digestive system, Bakaeva warned, can occur without significant pain, so it is necessary to get checked regularly.
