Why do apples give me stomach pain?

Apples are considered one of the healthiest fruits due to their vitamins, minerals, and high fiber content. Apples are low in calories, making them ideal for those on a diet. However, even this healthy fruit has its own side effects. Abdominal pain and discomfort are common after eating the fruit. Apples can also cause increased gas.

Causes of pain from apples

• Apples contain a large amount of fiber, which stimulates fermentation processes in the body. Eating several apples at once can overwhelm your intestines. Eating apples in the evening or at night is especially not recommended. During sleep, the digestive system slows down, making it even more difficult for the stomach to process food. Undigested fruit enters the intestinal tract. People with intestinal issues should include apples in their diet with caution, limiting the amount consumed.
• Poorly washed or unwashed fruits can cause pathogenic bacteria and viruses to enter the body, which can cause not only mild gastrointestinal upset, but also serious intestinal infections.
• Apples contain pectin, which, during digestion, turns into a gel-like mass that slows down digestion, inhibits the absorption of sugar, and also absorbs toxic substances well.
• Fresh apples are contraindicated for people suffering from stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastritis, and pancreatitis. The acids contained in apples (malic and tartaric) irritate the stomach lining, increase acidity, and can exacerbate existing conditions.

Preventive measures

To avoid stomach and intestinal problems, follow some recommendations that will help you enjoy healthy fruits without suffering from stomach pain after eating them.

• Those who suffer from constipation, diarrhea, flatulence and other intestinal disorders should eat no more than 1–2 apples a day.
• Fruits should be consumed before the main meal or 1.5–2 hours after eating.
• You can't eat apples before bed.
• People with stomach and pancreatic diseases are advised to include only baked apples in their diet during periods of exacerbation. During periods of remission, raw fruit can be eaten, but peeled, as the peel contains the highest amount of fruit acid.
• Before eating, apples must be washed thoroughly.

Unless there are contraindications, it's essential to include apples in your daily diet. It's no coincidence that this fruit is called the fruit of health. They contain vitamins C, B1, B2, P, E, manganese, potassium, and a large amount of iron. The fiber found in apples, especially green ones, helps maintain a feeling of fullness for a long time. And pectin improves complexion and keeps skin looking fresh.