Locations:
Search IconSearch

5 Foods to Avoid When Digestive Troubles Arise

Substitutions that will help you feel, and eat, better

woman eating greek yogurt because of digestive disorder

The human body can do amazing things, but this sometimes might not feel so great — especially when it comes to your digestive system. Between bloating, constipation, diarrhea/vomiting, and reflux, choosing foods to eat consistently that don’t upset you can be difficult.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

Wellness expert Michael Roizen, MD, explains the five types of food and drink to substitute out of your diet for relief from digestive woes.

Spoiled or unwashed foods

Bacteria from old or raw foods can cause food poisoning, cramps, or other issues if it gets into your system. Instead, eat more whole grains or cooked vegetables for a boost of fiber to improve your digestive health.

Spicy and hot foods

Foods with a bit of a kick can trigger problems like heartburn. For relief, try incorporating more ginger into your diet. Though not scientifically proven to help, it’s a traditional remedy that may help your stomach empty properly. If you must have some spice to your foods, try seasoning with a bit of cinnamon or caraway for a gentler effect.

Dairy products

Vitamin D doesn’t just have to come from milk, cheese, and cream products. Opt for salmon and leafy greens instead. Still craving that yogurt parfait? Try Greek yogurt (with no added sugar, syrup or fat), which doesn’t include lactose.

Acidic foods

High acid foods, like oranges, grapefruit, tomatoes and lemons can cause discomfort and irritate your stomach lining. More bland options, like apples and bananas, or vegetables rich in fiber like asparagus, onions and artichokes, are a safer option.

Alcohol

While you’re unwinding with that glass of wine in the evening, so is the sphincter in your esophagus, increasing your level of heartburn. Opt for a tall glass of water instead to keep everything moving smoothly. It’s the best thing you can drink for a healthy digestive system.

Advertisement

This article was adapted from the best-selling book “What to Eat When” by Michael F. Roizen, MD, and Micheal Crupain, MD, MPH with Ted Spiker (©2018 National Geographic Books)

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Hands cutting up a plate of grilled fish over veggies
April 22, 2025/Nutrition
What Is the Pescatarian Diet?

Pescatarians don’t eat poultry, game or red meat, but they do eat fish and seafood, dairy and eggs

Happy family eating a meal together at table
April 14, 2025/Nutrition
Type 1 Diabetes: Family-Friendly Meal Planning

Focus on balanced meals, smart snacks, consistent eating and choice-driven conversations

Person looking at a recipe on tablet in kitchen, using healthy, nutritional ingredients
April 14, 2025/Nutrition
What Are Essential Nutrients?

As your body can’t make them, you must get the six essential nutrients — fats, carbs, protein, vitamins, minerals and water — from food and drink

Man sitting on park stairs, about to bite into an apple
April 14, 2025/Nutrition
Should I Be Eating Phytoestrogens?

The plant-based compound may boost brain health, protect bones and ease menopause symptoms

Sliced cantaloupe with rinds on wooden platter
April 11, 2025/Nutrition
4 Health Benefits of Cantaloupe

This melon boosts your immune system and provides a wealth of antioxidants for eye health

view of papaya fruit, with one half cut open
April 10, 2025/Nutrition
6 Reasons To Eat More Papaya

Bite into a slice of papaya to enjoy a taste of the tropics and disease-fighting nutrients

Bowl of sliced nectarines and whole nectarines on table with kitchen towel
April 10, 2025/Nutrition
5 Health Benefits of Nectarines

Nectarines help your gut and heart health and may lower your cancer risk

Wooden bowl full of fresh picked plums, with one cut in half
April 9, 2025/Nutrition
Why Plums Are the Plumb Perfect Fruit

Eating more plums can help keep your bowels moving, prevent chronic diseases and protect against cancer

Trending Topics

Person in bed sleeping on their side, covers off
Breathing Problems? Try These Sleep Positions

If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help

A couple looking at skyline, with one person slightly behind the other, head bent down
What Is Anxious Attachment Style — and Do You Have It?

If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style

Glasses and bottle of yellow-colored prebiotic soda, with mint, lemon and ginger garnish
Are Prebiotic Sodas Good for You?

If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods

Ad