

Certain health conditions and dietary sensitivities may make the digestion of food difficult. Symptoms like acid reflux, abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhoea are the common outcomes. But easy to digest foods can prove handy in easing stomach concerns while being adequately nutritious in supporting healthy well-being.
10 Easy to Digest Foods
What foods are easy to digest? Check out the list of these easy to digest foods that are soothing for the stomach.
1. Bananas
Bananas are a nutritional powerhouse, offering carbohydrates, fibre, potassium, and vital vitamins. With their high fluid content, they are particularly useful in managing gastrointestinal issues. A medium-sized banana contains 105 calories, 1.29 g of protein, and 3.07 g of fibre. Its carbohydrate content begins to convert to sugars as the bananas ripen. They are easily digestible due to their high fibre content and can provide a quick energy boost.
2. Oatmeal
Oatmeal’s digestibility is attributed to its minimal processing and high soluble fibre content. Cooking oatmeal with water further lowers its fat content. With 143 calories, 5.0 g of protein, and 3.74 g of fibre in a 234 g cup serving, oatmeal provides sustained energy and supports digestion. Rich in minerals as well as B vitamins and gluten-free, it’s gentle on the stomach and suitable for those with digestive sensitivities. It’s rich in soluble fibre that helps regulate digestion and provides a steady release of energy.
3. Yoghurt
Yoghurt aids digestion by delivering probiotics, beneficial bacteria that bolster gut health. These microbes assist in breaking down food and support nutrient absorption. Its creamy texture and protein content are gentle on the stomach. Opt for plain, low-fat yoghurt for easier digestion.
4. Boiled or Steamed Vegetables
The bland easy to digest foods are a boon for stomach ailments. They offer easily digestible fibre and essential nutrients. Steam cooking further helps preserve the natural enzymes of the food, promoting better digestion. The softened texture of steamed and boiled vegetables reduces the strain on the digestive system.
5. White Rice
White rice is easily digestible compared to brown rice due to its lower fibre content as the outer layer is removed. It serves as a good source of carbohydrates. Every half-cup serving of white rice contains 337 calories, 74 g of carbohydrates, 6.6 g of protein, 1.2 g of fibre, and 4 mg of iron. This nutritional rich profile is also a great source of energy without straining the digestive system.
6. Applesauce
While the high fibre content of fruits can aggravate stomach discomfort, cooking fruits helps break down the fibre for easier digestion. Homemade applesauce can be relied upon as one of the easy to digest foods. Applesauce contains soluble fibre called pectin that aids in digestion and helps treat certain types of diarrhoea. A 244 g cup of unsweetened applesauce contains 215 g of water, 102 calories, 2.68 g of fibre, and vital nutrients. It is a soft and easily digestible food that provides the benefits of fibre and vitamins found in apples, without the rough texture.
7. Toast
Plain toast, especially whole-grain or white bread, is often well-tolerated by those with sensitive stomachs. It can provide a simple source of energy and help ease digestion as toasting breaks down carbs that are responsible for aggravating stomach discomfort.
8. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes provide soluble fibre, which is easier to digest than insoluble fibre. A healthy intake of soluble fibre promotes healthy gut bacteria and digestion. Sweet potatoes are a high source of potassium, an electrolyte often lost during digestive issues. A 250 g serving of mashed sweet potatoes has 197 g of water, 215 calories 4.94 g of fibre, and essential nutrients to benefit a range of stomach sensitivities.
9. Lean Protein
Chicken, turkey, and fish are examples of lean proteins that are easier to digest than fatty meats. Without overwhelming the digestive system, they provide essential amino acids that are vital for muscle repair and growth.
10. Clear Soups
Clear broths and soups made with easily digestible ingredients like chicken, rice, and well-cooked vegetables provide hydration and nutrients without overloading the digestive system.
Conclusion
Stomach ailments and dietary sensitivities create challenges when it comes to digesting food. However, incorporating easy to digest foods into the diet provides immediate relief from symptoms and supports overall health. Easy to digest foods are generally low in fibre. But they pack high nutrition for overall well-being. Switching to bland easy foods to digest offers gentle food choices for a stomach-friendly diet.