Eating rice mixed with water, is it okay for digestion?… 4 habits toxic to the stomach

Some people habitually mix water into their food after a meal. This is because they feel it aids digestion. However, caution is advised as this can actually be detrimental to stomach health. Let's look at four common habits that harm gastrointestinal health.

 

◇ Eating rice mixed with water

 

Eating rice mixed with water can interfere with the digestive function of the stomach. Rice is broken down into smaller pieces through the chewing action of the teeth and becomes easier to digest when mixed with saliva. Amylase in saliva plays a role in breaking down starch, the main component of rice, to make it easier to digest. However, when rice is mixed with water, the rice is chewed less, bypassing the process of breaking it down, and the saliva is diluted, weakening its digestive effect. The digestive juices in the stomach are also diluted by the water, which can interfere with the stomach's digestive function.

◇ Drinking carbonated beverages when you have an upset stomach

 

Drinking carbonated beverages such as cola or soda causes you to burp, giving the impression that digestion is improving and your stomach feels comfortable. However, this is not a sign of digestion but rather the release of gas contained in the carbonated drink. In fact, carbonated beverages can cause digestive problems. This is because they weaken the sphincter connecting the esophagus and stomach, making it easier for stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. Consuming carbonated drinks should be strictly avoided, especially if you have a history of gastrointestinal issues.

 

 

◇ Drink milk when you have heartburn

 

Some people drink milk when they experience heartburn. Milk is slightly alkaline, so it neutralizes acidic gastric juices upon contact, temporarily relieving the pain. However, over time, milk can actually worsen the heartburn. Casein, a protein in milk, transforms into a jelly-like substance when it comes into contact with gastric juices. The stomach then secretes a larger amount of gastric juice to digest and absorb the casein. The calcium in milk also stimulates gastric acid secretion. Particular caution is advised for those with gastric or duodenal ulcers, as drinking milk can worsen the condition due to excessive gastric acid secretion.

 

 

◇ Drinking alcohol and throwing up

 

Vomiting after drinking excessive alcohol can make one feel relieved. This is because the body's absorption of alcohol is reduced, temporarily soothing the stomach and eliminating hangovers. However, the esophagus is exposed to stomach acid, increasing the risk of damage. Repeated vomiting also loosens the muscles between the stomach and esophagus, causing stomach acid to reflux frequently and raising the likelihood of developing reflux esophagitis.

 

 

Eating rice mixed with water, is it okay for digestion?… 4 habits toxic to the stomach © Provided by Health Chosun