A physician specializing in gastroenterology at the Vidnovsky Clinical Hospital, part of the health system in the Moscow region, cautions that certain foods and improper dish combinations can make the stomach feel heavy, slow digestion, and even trigger diarrhea. In an interview with a public news outlet, the expert advised avoiding simultaneous intake of proteins with potatoes, cereals, pasta, and dough products, explaining that this mix can disrupt gastric processes.
The specialist observed that digestion can falter when meat, fish, and carbohydrate-rich foods are consumed together. When these elements enter the stomach at once, carbohydrates may ferment and proteins can have a less efficient path through the digestive tract. This can lead to a situation where the body does not efficiently absorb the needed protein and energy from carbohydrates.
Incorrect food pairings may leave meals feeling undigested for longer, creating a sensation of heaviness, sluggishness, and fatigue. Over time, such patterns could contribute to irritation of the stomach lining and possibly promote conditions like gastritis, constipation, or ulcers in some individuals.
In these scenarios, the pancreas may be compelled to work much harder, potentially accelerating wear over the years and increasing the risk of pancreatic symptoms or disorders. This concern is often raised when meals repeatedly combine high-fat foods with large portions of protein and starches.
The expert also warned that combining two protein sources in one meal, such as nuts with meat, eggs with meat, cheese with nuts, or cheese with eggs, may complicate digestion because different proteins require varying levels of digestive fluids. Balancing these needs can be challenging for the stomach and intestines alike.
Another commonly discouraged pairing involves potatoes with mushrooms, or alcohol with meat dishes. Each combination can alter the digestive timeline and may influence how nutrients are processed, depending on individual tolerance and overall meal composition.
Fats and fried foods are noted to intensify and extend the effects of alcohol in the digestive tract, placing additional stress on the liver and gallbladder. This dynamic can contribute to a slower recovery after meals that include alcohol, particularly when fatty foods are part of the same intake.
It is important to recognize that chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers are among the conditions that can be associated with persistent digestive discomfort and bad breath. Medical assessment remains essential for anyone experiencing ongoing symptoms, as therapies and dietary adjustments should be tailored to the individual’s health status and risk factors.
Dietary guidance often emphasizes moderation, variety, and listening to personal tolerance. A balanced approach typically includes vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats while allowing flexibility to adapt meals to how one feels after eating. While no single rule fits everyone, understanding how different foods interact in the stomach can support better digestion and overall well-being over time.