Low-calorie or restrictive diets can significantly affect the digestive system, often leading to discomfort and digestive disturbances. When calorie intake is too low, the body slows down gastrointestinal motility—the natural movement of the stomach and intestines that helps digest food. As a result, food remains in the digestive tract longer, which can cause bloating, gas, constipation, and a general feeling of heaviness. Additionally, when the stomach expects food but receives little or none, it continues to produce digestive acids in anticipation of a meal. These acids can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of gastritis or acid reflux.
Over time, this irritation may lead to symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, heartburn, or a burning sensation in the chest. Some individuals may also notice a bitter or sour taste in the mouth due to acid traveling upward from the stomach. Prolonged digestive discomfort not only affects physical well-being but can also reduce appetite and disrupt normal eating patterns, creating a harmful cycle. To maintain healthy digestion, it is essential to consume regular, balanced meals with adequate fiber and fluids, rather than following overly restrictive diets that stress the digestive system.
