A diet rich in vegetables may help reduce the risk of heart disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in vegetables are responsible for these healthful effects. Consuming vegetables instead of higher calorie fare can help you manage your weight. Most people should eat about nine servings, or 2 1/2 cups, of vegetables daily but for some people, too much of certain vegetables can cause digestive problems.
Flatulance
Everyone passes gas between 14 to 23 times per day. Certain vegetables may increase the amount of gas you produce to an uncomfortable level. Raffinose, the sugar found in beans and legumes, is not easily digested by some people and can cause excessive gas. Other vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, onions, artichokes and asparagus can also cause you to pass excessive gas.
Bloating
Bloating may result from trapped gas and a sudden increase in fiber intake. Fiber is an essential part of your diet, and the Institute of Medicine recommends a daily minimum of 25 g of fiber for women 50 years and under and 38 g for men. The typical American diet is low in fiber intake. If you are unaccustomed to eating large amounts of vegetables, add them to your diet slowly over the course of a few weeks to allow your digestive system to become accustomed to the increased fiber.
Loose Stools
Fiber helps reduce constipation by making your stool soft and easily passed. Eating extremely fibrous vegetables such as cabbage, carrots and chickpeas in large amounts can make your stool extremely soft or even cause diarrhea. Cramping may accompany the loose stools, especially if you are unaccustomed to large servings of the vegetables.
Member Comments