One 'healthy' hot drink can trigger bloating and cause IBS symptoms

One 'healthy' hot drink can trigger bloating and cause IBS symptoms That soothing morning brew may not be having the effect you think as experts issue a strict warning Many people decide to start their day with a herbal brew over a piping hot cup of coffee with the belief it gives them a 'healthier' boost. But experts say one popular drink could actually leave people battling with an uncomfortable after-effect. Herbal teas containing ingredients such as chamomile or fennel may trigger digestive symptoms in some people. This is because they contain fructans, a type of carbohydrate that can be difficult for the body to digest, particularly for people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). According to Monash University, chamomile and fennel are high in fructans. These both belong to a group of fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs. When they aren't fully absorbed in the small intestine, they travel to the large bowel, where they're fermented by gut bacteria. This produces gas that can lead to bloating, abdominal pain and discomfort. Research cited by the team says some people with IBS, for example, can experience "extreme bloating" after consuming high-FODMAP foods and drinks. The university developed the internationally recognised low-FODMAP diet, which is widely used by healthcare professionals to help manage IBS symptoms. The NHS says IBS is a common condition affecting the digestive system. Symptoms can include bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhoea and constipation. There is no single food that affects everyone. But keeping a detailed food diary and identifying personal triggers can help reduce flare-ups. Monash University says peppermint tea is considered a low-FODMAP option and is generally better tolerated by people following the diet. Ginger tea may also be suitable for many people, although individual tolerance can vary. The British Dietetic Association recommends that anyone experiencing persistent bloating or digestive symptoms should seek medical advice rather than cutting out large groups of foods unnecessarily. It says dietary changes for IBS are often most effective when carried out with support from a registered healthcare professional or dietitian. While a morning herbal tea may seem like the healthiest choice, experts say it's worth remembering that what's good for one person's gut may not be suitable for another. Understanding your own triggers could be the key to avoiding unnecessary discomfort before the day has even begun.