It is important to eat a balanced diet, especially when you have bowel disorders or inflammatory bowel disease. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up everything you love to eat. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can enjoy summer activities like a good barbecue. Knowing your triggers is important because different foods have different effects on people. The goal is to maximize nutrition without overwhelming the digestive system.
Here are some tips for enjoying any outdoor barbecue:
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1. Choose grilled over fried
For many people who have difficulty digesting, fatty foods, such as fried chicken or a fatty hamburger, upset the digestive system. As an alternative, explore lower-fat options, such as skinless chicken breasts, or other meats, such as beef and turkey with 3% fat or less. Fish like tuna and salmon are easier to digest than other types of protein.
2. Pay attention to fiber
Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet and helps keep your bowel movements regular. But when your digestive tract is already irritated, fiber can be a bit harsh on your system. Therefore, limiting fiber can help reduce unpleasant side effects. Once the irritation has subsided, you can increase fiber again, as part of an overall healthy diet.
Fiber-rich foods can be troublesome during a bowel intimation phase, while carbohydrates, such as rice, can be gentler on the body.
3. Cook fruits and vegetables
Green salads and corn can trigger stomach discomfort for some people, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your vegetables. One way to reduce the risk of a fruit or vegetable upsetting your system is to peel it, since most of the fiber in these foods is in the skin.
For example, you can try eating a cucumber, a peeled zucchini. Cooked vegetables are also easier to digest.
Remember that it’s okay to tell the host that you have dietary restrictions. And don’t hesitate to make food suggestions if the host asks what you can eat.
4. Eat before you go
If you can’t control the type of food that will be served at a barbecue, eat before you go. This way, you’ll be less nervous about your food choices and better able to enjoy the social aspects of barbecuing.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking water is always a good idea, especially when you’re outdoors in hot weather. Fruits like watermelon, which are high in water and low in fiber, are also great ways to quench your thirst without risking more discomfort.
6. Bring a dish
To ensure that there will be something to eat on the barbecue, consider bringing a dish of your choice that suits you.
[HighProtein-Foods.com]
