Introduction
Pomegranates are among the fruit that contain many nutrients associated with the red seeds and additional qualities. However, adverse effects in human use are of concerns such as diarrhea among patients who use the drug. This post discusses whether pomegranate, or the juice thereof, can cause digestive problems and gets into the topic of fiber in digestion.
Table of Contents
Can Pomegranate Cause Diarrhea?
Yes, for some times it can lead to diarrhea since it has fiber and natural sugars though not extremely high in either that can cause any harm. However, all the riches have their origin in moderation to avoid any repercussions of the fruit.
The low harmful cholesterol levels, high levels of antioxidants, and dietary fiber found in pomegranates are useful for digestion when taken in reasonable portions but they contribute to diarrhea if taken in large portions of course. The seeds also contain sorbitol that is a sugar alcohol that in some people can induce diarrhea. Unlike other fruits, pomegranates may cause discomfort to an individual with the IBS or a sensitive gastrointestinal tract. Freezing is perfectly fine, but caution should be taken not to have too much of it in one sitting, in order to minimize digestive issues. In pomegranate consumption if other signs such as diarrhea remain symptomatic, one should seek medical advice.
Is Diarrhea a Common Side Effect of Eating Pomegranates?
Well, no, actually, there’s no diarrhea as a result of consuming pomegranates, but it may cause this in some people with certain allergies or those who intake excessive fruits.
For the average consumers pomegranate is harmless and has qualities that are good for one’s health such as being packed with antioxidants, vitamin, and fiber. But when taken in large amounts it can overburden the digestive system and lead to diarrhea at times. However, the seeds and arils of the fruit contain fiber that aids in bowel movements though in large quantities it will cause excessive bowels. Some qualification involves the discretion of pre-setting sensitive stomach by those who have Irritable bowel syndrome, Fructose malabsorption, and the likes. It’s crucial to realize that personal tolerance level differs. Adhering to recommended portion sizes guarantees the expectant can derive all the benefits of pomegranates without side effects such as upset tummy.
Does Pomegranate Juice Trigger Loose Stools?
Pomegranate juice could cause diarrhea in certain people and that is because of high natural sugar or fiber content and if taken in large quantity.
Pomegranate juice is full of antioxidants and nutrients; however, the natural sugars and fiber often cause discomfort in stomachs like mine. While eating fruits whole has many advantages, a drink containing similar nutrients may have a problem – It lacks fiber from seeds, which makes digestion occur more rapidly and, in some instances, results in diarrhea. Pomegranate juice is therefore not recommended for individuals with fructose intolerance or those with past history of gastrointestinal disease. However, commercially available pomegranate juices may contain added sugars which they make to worsen digestion problems. To avert these issues one ought to use pomegranate juice sparingly and look for natural raw or neat juices. Another way is to prevent side effects is to maintain a proper hydration level and have a proper diet.
How Does the Fiber in Pomegranates Affect Digestion?
Naturally found fiber within pomegranates helps in controlling movement of bowel, but if one takes large amount, it can cause diarrhea.
General health includes intake of fiber as it helps in improving bowel movements hence checking instances of constipation. Pelleted portion of the fruit is rich in fiber and mostly insoluble fiber which gives bulk to feces, pomegranates are good sources of fiber. In turn, this can be highly beneficial for most people since the foods will be well digested. Still, taking large amounts of fiber into the body may cause a strain into the digestive system hence may lead to swell as well as gassiness or even diarrhea. Cautious approach should be taken with people who are not used to having lots of fiber in their diets and especially when starting on pomegranates. Low fiber foods can also be can also be taken together with pomegranates to reduce the risk of affecting digestion. The above information is however able to be taken with other low fiber products to avoid a bad digestion system as a result of its high fiber contents. One also needs to take a lot of water when taking fibers such as pomegranates to avoid digestive issues such as constipation.
Can Overeating Pomegranates Lead to Diarrhea?
Indeed, consuming too large a portion of this fruit usually results in diarrhea because apart from fiber, pomegranates also contain a good amount of natural sugars that can upset the digestive system of a person who is not used to the intake of fiber rich foods.
Moderation of dietary fiber found in the pomegranate bushes is very essential for digestion. Nonetheless, taking them to beyond the recommended proportions causes the stimulation of the digestive tracts and leads to diarrhea or soft stools. This is due to the fact that fiber enhances the bowel movement, and when taken in large quantities will and there are chances of its accelerating beyond normal. Also, the bean contains sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that if consumed in large quantities, acts as a laxative to people who are sensitive to it p and may worsen diarrhea. Over consumption may also cause stomach stiffness, and swollen abdomen, gassy feeling and may also lead to heart burns. In order to circumvent these problems, pomegranates should only be taken in moderation, in the right portions. This is particularly true for people with a past history of digestive problems, by making a point of paying attention to fiber consumption levels, and incrementally increasing the fiber intake, if necessary. Consuming lots of fiber and water can help promote good digestion and enhanced digestion functions of foods. You can also read Can Pomegranate Cause Constipation?.
Are Certain People More Prone to Digestive Upsets from Pomegranates?
Indeed, those with sensitive systems or IBS or fructose malabsorption, which is a particularly sensitive digestive condition, usually experience digestive upsets after consuming pomegranates.
The only possible side effects are related to the increased fiber and sugar content of pomegranates, to which some people are more allergic. Patients with IBS may have some uncomfortable feeling which may include bloating, diarrhea or abdominal pain soon after taking pomegranates due to the seed’s insoluble fiber. Likewise, people suffering from fructose intolerance are likely to experience difficulty in breaking down the natural sugars in the fruit, and so may experience gas, cramps or diarrhea. It also means that introducing pomegranates into the diet of will can cause temporary health problems among people who have never consumed high-fiber products before. Some of these risks can be mitigated by moderation and stepped-up introduction of pomegranate into our diet. However, having them with other low fiber products do not harm the body but can counter balance the effects on digestion. If above symptoms persist then it is advisable to consult the doctor to diagnose the root cause and what diet should ideally be taken.
Can Pomegranate Seeds Irritate the Stomach?
Indeed, pomegranate seeds can cause stomach irritation when taken in large quantities and especially in persons with wounded stomach lining such as those with gastritis or ulcers.
Pomegranate seeds contain lots of insoluble fiber which is bad news for the stomach lining or inflamed bowel. For the people who suffer from gastritis, ulcers or IBS the seeds’ abrasive trait can worsen the symptoms or cause distress. In the same way, consumption of large amount of seeds can cause problems such as bloating, formation of gas and in some cases may cause mild stomach ache as the body is not well equipped to handle large volumes of fiber. In a general population, it is quite safe and healthy to binge on pomegranate seeds as they help in digestion. However, the seed skins may cause inconvenience to the digestive systems of certain individuals, in which case, pomegranate juice is recommended because it contains all the nutrients as the fruit without the problematic seeds. Pomegranate consumption can be reduced to prevent cases of stomach irritation and balanced diet can also be maintained to prevent over eating of the fruit.
Do Pesticides on Pomegranates Contribute to Diarrhea?
Yes, eating pesticide residues on pomegranates can lead to diarrhea since some pesticide can cause inflammation of the digestive tract or act as a pro biotic to the gut.
Chemicals employed in farming may sometimes be found on the fruits, say pomegranates: if one takes them without washing, they are likely to have stomach upsets. Small intake of those pesticide can cause nuisance to the lining of the stomach resulting in nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Also, these chemicals may disrupt the local biota of the gastro intestinal tract and lead to digestive discomforts or illnesses. To minimize contact, pomegranate should be washed under running water and in the case one has the opportunity, one should go for organic fruits. It can also be washed with a fruit and vegetable wash to get rid if pesticide residues. Protected handling and washing of pomegranate also make it possible to obtain maximum benefits of taking them without fears of suffering from pesticide affecting the stomach.
How Does Sorbitol in Pomegranates Impact Sensitive Stomachs?
Sorbitol is another sort of sugar alcohol present in pomegranates, and is known to cause stomach upset in many people, giving rise to common conditions such as bloating, gas formation and diarrhea in that case too when taken in large quantities.
One of the sugar alcohols, sorbitol – a compound occurring naturally in pomegranates, absorbs water in the intestines, and is slightly watery as a result. It is observed that people who easily get gaseous or suffer from loose motions can experience bloating, cramping and gaseous distension, if they consume sorbitol. Sorbitol’s full digestion by the body can be a challenge especially when in large quantities which causes abdomen upset. People with diseases as IBS or fructose intolerance maybe more sensitive to this product containing sorbitol. This is why it’s advisable to limit the quantity of pomegranates we take, mainly if they are taken frequently. That said, if you have issues with your digestion after consuming pomegranates, it is advisable to cut down its consumption or even avoid it all together, this is especially if, after doing so, your condition does not change consult a doctor.
Can Pomegranates Cause Food Intolerance Symptoms?
Indeed, pomegranates may cause food intolerance effects in people with fructose intolerance or sorbitol sensitivity resulting in bloating, gassing or diarrhea.
Food intolerances arise when the gastrointestinal tract is unable to digest specific foods and substances, and pomegranates as well can cause the worst in sensitive stomachs. Pomegranates contain natural sugar named fructose which some people cannot metabolize. Researchers have found those with fructose malabsorption are likely to suffer bloating abdominal pain, diarrhea after taking pomegranates. Also, pomegranates contain sorbitol, an artificial sweetener that results in digestive discomfort in some people when taken in large quantities. People who are always in a distressed stomach as a result of some ailments such as the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are supposed to minimize on pomegranates. If you believe that you are intolerance to pomegranates causes some of the symptoms observed, you should avoid eating the fruits and gradually include them in the diet. It is advisable to seek advice from a dermatologist to advice on special intolerances that one maybe having and foodstuffs to avoid.
What Are the Digestive Risks of Overripe Pomegranates?
Occasionally, ripe pomegranates may cause digestion issues because in their fermented state, their natural sugar content might cause issues like stomach aches, bloating or diarrhea.
When the pomegranates get overripe their sugar content ascends succeeding into the process of fermentation as the fruit plane degenerates. If you have special sensibility for the effects of fermentation, your gut may have problems like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Fructose and sorbitol found in overripe pomegranate may make the situations worse for those who are suffering from fructose intolerance or IBS. Also, the production of fermentation generates the growth of undesirable bacteria in the stomach and causes discomfort. The best time to take pomegranates is when they are fresh and ripe to help prevent stomach problems. It may take few hours at room temperature or few days in the fridge depending on the ripeness to get a digested texture; however, if there is any sign of over ripeness or spoilt texture, one should avoid taking it and disposing it because it usually causes digestion.
Should You Avoid Pomegranates If You Have IBS?
For people with IBS, pomegranates should only be consumed in moderation- their high fiber content and natural sugars can make them an IBS trigger causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Pomegranates are high in fiber and although fiber is good for digestion, it is particularly terrible for individuals with IBS. Some types of fiber also the soluble fiber may in fact, harm your digestive system, bring about constipation, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Also, pomegranates have fructose which may cause hardship time for IBS sufferers to digest them. It can also manifest itself in terms of gas, bloating or stomach pain. Sorbitol which is another component present in the fruit classified under sugar alcohols creates issues in digestion since, draws water into the colon. However, for patients suffering from IBS, it could help to try small portions of pomegranate to check your body’s response to them. It is always advisable to avoid foods that cause you some discomfort or speak to the doctor for advice on the amount of pomegranates that one should be taking in.
How to Prevent Diarrhea When Eating Pomegranates?
If one is to take these fruits, one should do so in moderate proportions, and should not take the very ripe fruits because they trigger diarrhea, the fruits should also be washed properly to get rid of the pesticide agents. They should be sold alongside other ingredients that counter their ability to affect digestion.
Most of the times pomegranates are suitable for digestion and it is advised not to take more of them because they can lead to diarrhea to the users who have sensitive stomachs. Although there are far reaching health benefits, it’s suggested that pomegranate should be taken sparingly to avoid digestion complications. Eat in moderation as consuming large portions can stress the digestive tract because most of African palm oil’s components are high in fiber and contain natural sugars such as sorbitol and fructose. Further, did you know that pomegranate that has fermented with overripe fruit, may upset your digestive system. Prosperous washing of the fruit before eating it also minimize chances of stomach upsets arising from ingesting pesticide residues. However, pomegranate has to be consumed with other foods like protein or fat, in order to counter the stomach effects and ensure they do not affect the digestive system, leading to diarrhea. For this reason, if you are sensitive to your tummy, it is recommended that you begin taking pomegranates in small portions to help your body acclimatize.
What Are the Alternatives to Pomegranates for Sensitive Stomachs?
If you have a problematic digestion, then other fruits are recommended instead pomegranates as they cause some issues with the gastrointestinal tract; those are bananas, papayas, apples, blueberries.
However, due to fiber and sugar content pomegranates has specific negative effects, that is patients suffering from stomach ulcer may experience discomfort whenever they consume these fruits. Luckily, there is several options that are less hazardous to the digestive system. Potassium is another mine and bananas are also mild on the stomach which makes them the best fruits to take in large quantities. Papayas are rich in papain which has a digestive and stomach lining benefitting ability. Soluble fiber has a mild laxative effect without being rough, making apples a good choice and blueberries which are relatively low in fiber, are easier to digest. The fruits are less containing sorbitol and fructose than pomegranates which makes them better for people with digestive problems. Including each of these alternatives in diet will go a long way to balancing digestion; and offer similar nutrient profile as pomegranates without making you chortle as you’ll see later.
How to Treat Digestive Discomfort Caused by Pomegranates?
As to combat digestion issues a result of pomegranates, make sure to have several glasses of water, take ginger or peppermint tea, and do not eat bulky meals. You should consult your doctor, but you can find relief in an OTC antacid or perhaps a probiotic supplement.
If you have issues with digestion and feel bloated, gassy, or have diarrhea after you’ve eaten pomegranates, there are measures that can be taken to reduce those effects. First, you should take plenty of water since it will assist in washing out remains of fiber and sorbitol hence reducing digestion problems. Ginger and peppermint tea are two familiar treatments that can help to eliminate the feeling of bloating and nausea. Those experiencing only minor pain can use non-prescription antacids to counter stomach acidity, and pro-biotics to regulate the buildup of gut bacteria while enhancing digestion. It is advice able not to take other fibrous foods like heavy meals that may exerting more pressure on the digestion system after taking pomegranates. However, if discomfort continues, it is much wiser to see a doctor to exclude any causal digestive problems or intolerance.
Conclusion
Pomegranates are rich in many nutrients and have earned themselves a status of promoting many health benefits but the fruit does have its problematic effects on digestion depending on how much is consumed. Pomegranate contains natural sugars, fiber and sorbitol that are disliked by sensitive stomachs and they cause bloating, gas and even diarrhea. Due to these social etiquettes or problems, it is wise to limit the consumption of pomegranates, wash them properly, and avoid consuming fruits that are fully ripe. In the case of digestive discomfort, it’s better to keep hydrated and drink warm beverages like ginger tea or mint tea which are considered to soothe the stomach While the Author has no particular preference for any of the four essential oils, she would use them to soothe the stomach, Probiotics would also be taken. But for the sensitive-stomach holders, other options, such as bananas, papayas, and blueberries can be equally healthy since they, though do not upset the stomach when ingested. What is more important to remember, that like any other food we should pay attention to our inner voice and adjust ourselves according to our digesting system. Always seek medical advice if unusual symptoms persist: there are unique recommendations for everyone.