Maple Pumpkin Buttermilk Cheesecake Tart

 Creamy pumpkin cheesecake + tangy buttermilk + maple syrup + buttery tart crust.

Perfect for fall, Thanksgiving, or a cozy dessert.

🥧 Ingredients

For the crust

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 1–2 tbsp ice-cold water
• ¼ tsp salt

For the filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt

For topping

• Whipped cream
• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup
• Pecans
• A little cinnamon for dusting

👩‍🍳 Method

1. Make the crust
Mix flour, powdered sugar and salt. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and enough ice water to bring the dough together.

Shape into a disc, wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the tart shell
Roll the dough out and place it into a 9-inch tart pan. Press gently into the sides and trim the edges.

Prick the base with a fork. Chill for 15 minutes.

Blind bake at 180°C / 350°F for 15 minutes with baking weights, then remove the weights and bake another 5 minutes.

3. Make the pumpkin filling
Beat the cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin purée, maple syrup, eggs and vanilla.

Mix in the buttermilk, followed by cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt. Don't overmix—the filling should be smooth and creamy.

4. Bake
Pour the filling into the prepared tart shell.

Bake at 165°C / 325°F for approximately 35–45 minutes, until the edges are set but the centre still has a slight jiggle.

Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.

🍁 Maple swirl

For the beautiful decoration like in your picture, drizzle 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup over the chilled tart.

Use the back of a spoon or a skewer to gently create concentric swirls.

Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and toasted pecans. Dust lightly with cinnamon.

⭐ Why buttermilk works here

The buttermilk gives the pumpkin cheesecake a slightly tangy, lighter flavour that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and brown sugar. It also makes the filling wonderfully smooth.

Is Buttermilk Good for Acidity and Heartburn?

 If you've ever reached for a glass of chaas after a heavy meal, you already know it feels soothing. But is there real science behind it, or is it just an old wives' tale? The good news is that buttermilk for acidity and buttermilk for heartburn isn't just folklore — this humble, tangy drink has genuine digestive benefits backed by both tradition and nutrition science.

Buttermilk, or chaas, is a diluted, spiced yogurt drink that's a staple in Indian households, especially during hot weather and after rich meals. It's light, hydrating, and packed with beneficial bacteria, which is why so many people turn to it when their stomach feels off. Understanding chaas for digestion — when to drink it, how much, and for whom — can help you use it more effectively instead of just relying on habit.

In this article, we'll break down why acidity and heartburn happen, how buttermilk can help, when it might not, and the best way to prepare and time it for maximum relief.

What Causes Acidity and Heartburn?

Acidity and heartburn happen when the stomach produces excess acid, or when that acid escapes upward into the esophagus instead of staying where it belongs. A few common triggers include:

• Excess stomach acid: Some people naturally produce more gastric acid, especially when meals are irregular or skipped.
• Spicy foods: Chili and heavily seasoned dishes can irritate the stomach lining and trigger acid production.
• Oily meals: Fried and fatty foods slow down digestion, keeping food in the stomach longer and increasing the chances of reflux.
• Late-night eating: Lying down soon after a meal makes it easier for acid to travel back up the esophagus.
• Acid reflux (GERD): A chronic condition where the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't close properly, allowing acid to flow back regularly, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat.

Understanding your specific trigger is the first step toward figuring out whether something like buttermilk will help or make things worse.

How Buttermilk May Help

Buttermilk brings together several qualities that make it a natural fit for a troubled stomach:

• Cooling effect: In Ayurvedic tradition, buttermilk is considered a cooling drink that calms internal heat, which many people associate with the burning sensation of acidity.
• Probiotics: Because it's fermented, buttermilk contains live cultures that support a healthy gut microbiome, which can improve overall digestion over time.
• Hydration: Buttermilk is mostly water, so it helps replenish fluids, especially useful after a heavy or salty meal.
• Digestive support: The mild acidity of buttermilk can aid in breaking down food and easing bloating or heaviness after eating.
• Lower fat than whole milk: Since the fat is skimmed off during preparation, buttermilk is lighter on the stomach than a full glass of milk, making it easier to digest for many people.

Together, these properties explain why chaas has remained a go-to home remedy for generations, particularly in warmer climates and after indulgent meals.

Best Time to Drink Buttermilk for Acidity

Timing plays a big role in whether buttermilk helps or simply sits heavy in your stomach. Here's how it generally breaks down:

After lunch (best): This is widely considered the ideal time. Your digestive fire, or agni, is strongest around midday, and a glass of buttermilk after lunch supports digestion, prevents bloating, and helps neutralize any excess acid from a heavier afternoon meal.

Morning (good): Drinking buttermilk on an empty stomach or with breakfast can also be beneficial, particularly for people who experience morning acidity or sluggish digestion. It's gentle enough for most people to tolerate early in the day.

Night (may not suit everyone): This is where things get tricky. While some people find a small glass at night soothing, others — especially those prone to reflux — may find that dairy consumed close to bedtime worsens symptoms, since lying down soon after can encourage acid to travel upward.

For a deeper dive into optimizing your buttermilk routine throughout the day, check out our related guide: [Best Time to Drink Buttermilk for Digestion].

Can Buttermilk Worsen Heartburn?

While buttermilk helps many people, it isn't a universal fix, and in certain situations it can actually make heartburn worse:

• Severe acid reflux: For people with more advanced GERD, any dairy — even a mild, fermented one like buttermilk — can sometimes trigger symptoms rather than relieve them.
• Dairy sensitivity: If your stomach reacts poorly to dairy products in general, buttermilk may cause discomfort despite its lower fat content.
• Large quantities: Drinking too much at once can overwhelm digestion rather than support it, leading to bloating or a heavy feeling.
• Very late-night consumption: As mentioned, drinking buttermilk right before lying down can increase the risk of acid creeping back up the esophagus.

If you notice that buttermilk seems to worsen your symptoms rather than ease them, it's worth cutting back or trying a smaller portion earlier in the day before ruling it out entirely.

How to Prepare Digestive Buttermilk

A simple, spiced buttermilk is often more effective for digestion than a plain glass straight from the fridge. Here's an easy recipe you can make at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 glass buttermilk
• A pinch of roasted cumin powder
• A pinch of rock salt
• A few chopped coriander leaves

Method: Simply whisk the buttermilk lightly, stir in the roasted cumin and rock salt, and garnish with fresh coriander. Roasted cumin is known to aid digestion, while rock salt is gentler on the stomach than regular table salt. This version isn't just tastier — it's specifically suited to calming an acidic or bloated stomach.

Who Should Be Careful?

While buttermilk works well for most people, certain groups should approach it with more caution:

• GERD: Those with diagnosed acid reflux disease should monitor how their body responds, since dairy can be a trigger for some.
• Lactose intolerance: Even though buttermilk has less lactose than milk, it can still cause discomfort, gas, or bloating in lactose-sensitive individuals.
• Dairy allergy: Anyone with a true dairy allergy should avoid buttermilk altogether, regardless of its digestive benefits for others.
• Frequent nighttime reflux: If you regularly wake up with a burning sensation or sour taste at night, it's best to avoid buttermilk in the evening and stick to daytime consumption instead.

If you fall into any of these categories, it's a good idea to consult a doctor before making buttermilk a regular part of your routine.

How Much Buttermilk Is Enough?

For most people, 150–250 ml — roughly one small glass — is the ideal amount to support digestion without overloading the stomach. More isn't necessarily better here. Drinking large quantities in one sitting can lead to bloating, discomfort, or even trigger the very acidity you're trying to soothe. Starting small and observing how your body responds is a smarter approach than assuming more buttermilk means faster relief.

FAQ

Can buttermilk stop acidity immediately? Buttermilk can offer quick relief for mild acidity by cooling the stomach and aiding digestion, but it isn't an instant cure, especially for more severe or chronic acid reflux.

Is buttermilk better than milk for heartburn? Generally, yes. Buttermilk is lighter, lower in fat, and easier to digest than whole milk, making it a gentler option for people with heartburn.

Can I drink buttermilk daily? Yes, for most people a small glass daily is safe and can support ongoing digestive health, as long as there's no underlying dairy sensitivity or allergy.

Should it be cold or room temperature? Room temperature or slightly cool buttermilk is usually easier on the stomach than ice-cold buttermilk, which can sometimes cause a shock to the digestive system.

Can it help after a spicy meal? Yes, a glass of buttermilk after a spicy meal can help cool the stomach and ease the burning sensation that spicy food often triggers.

Conclusion

Buttermilk can be a genuinely helpful, natural remedy for acidity and heartburn when used thoughtfully. Drinking it after lunch tends to work best for most people, aligning with the body's natural digestive rhythm. A glass in the morning is also a good option, particularly for those dealing with sluggish digestion. Nighttime consumption depends on the individual — while some tolerate it well, others with reflux tendencies may want to avoid it close to bedtime.

You may also find our guide on 11 Proven Health Benefits of Buttermilk (Chaas) useful for understanding the broader digestive and nutritional benefits of regular buttermilk consumption.

As with most home remedies, the key is moderation. Start with a small glass, pay attention to how your body responds, and adjust the timing and quantity based on your own digestive patterns rather than following a one-size-fits-all rule.

This article is for general wellness information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience frequent or severe heartburn, consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Best Time to Drink Buttermilk for Digestion: Morning, Afternoon, or Night?

 Introduction

Buttermilk (chaas) has been a staple in Indian kitchens for centuries, prized for its cooling nature and its ability to soothe the stomach. It's light, packed with probiotics, and easy on the gut. If you're new to chaas, you may also want to read our guide on 11 Proven Health Benefits of Buttermilk (Chaas) for a complete overview of its digestive and nutritional benefits.

But does when you drink it actually matter?

The truth is, timing can change how your body responds to buttermilk. A glass in the morning affects digestion differently than one after a heavy lunch, and drinking it late at night comes with its own set of considerations. This guide breaks down the best times to drink buttermilk, what each time offers your digestive system, and who might want to think twice before an evening glass.

Morning Benefits

Drinking buttermilk first thing in the morning, often on an empty stomach, is a traditional practice in many households — and for good reason.

• Kickstarts digestion: The probiotics and lactic acid in buttermilk help activate digestive enzymes, preparing your gut for the day ahead.
• Hydration with electrolytes: Buttermilk contains water along with potassium and sodium, helping replenish fluids lost overnight.
• Gentle on the stomach: Unlike coffee or acidic juices, buttermilk is mild and unlikely to irritate an empty stomach.
• Supports gut flora: Morning consumption may give beneficial bacteria a head start in balancing your gut microbiome for the day.

A simple morning glass, plain or with a pinch of roasted cumin and rock salt, is often considered the gentlest way to start digestion on the right note.

After-Lunch Benefits

This is widely regarded as the most beneficial time to drink buttermilk for digestion, and it's rooted in both tradition and practical physiology. You may also find our article on Is Buttermilk Good for Acidity and Heartburn? helpful if you often experience post-meal acidity.

• Aids heavy meal breakdown: Buttermilk contains lactic acid and enzymes that help break down proteins and fats from lunch, easing the digestive load.
• Reduces bloating and acidity: A glass after a meal can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce the heavy, bloated feeling that often follows a big lunch.
• Cooling effect: Especially in hot weather or after spicy food, buttermilk helps balance internal body heat and calms the digestive tract.
• Better nutrient absorption: The probiotics support a healthier gut environment, which can improve how well your body absorbs nutrients from the meal.

For most people, sipping a small glass of buttermilk 20–30 minutes after lunch is considered the digestive sweet spot.

Night-Time Considerations

Buttermilk at night is more debated. While it isn't harmful for everyone, it doesn't suit every body type or schedule.

• Slower digestion at night: Metabolism naturally slows down in the evening, so dairy products — even light ones like buttermilk — take longer to digest.
• Cooling nature vs. body needs: Buttermilk's cooling property, helpful in the day, can sometimes feel excessive at night, particularly in cooler weather or cooler climates.
• Possible congestion: Some people, especially those prone to colds, sinus issues, or a cough, may notice increased mucus production when consuming dairy late in the day.
• Better with dinner, not after: If you enjoy buttermilk at night, having it with an early dinner (rather than right before bed) tends to sit better with digestion.

If your dinner is light and early (at least 2–3 hours before sleeping), a small glass of buttermilk alongside the meal is generally fine for most healthy adults.

Who Should Avoid It Late at Night

While buttermilk is gentle for most people, certain groups may want to avoid it — or limit it — in the evening:

• People with cold, cough, or sinus congestion: The cooling and slightly mucus-forming nature of dairy can worsen symptoms.
• Those with joint pain or arthritis: In traditional wellness practices, dairy consumed at night is sometimes linked to increased stiffness or joint discomfort.
• People with weak digestion or bloating issues: Since metabolism slows at night, those prone to gas or bloating may find nighttime buttermilk harder to process.
• Individuals with lactose intolerance: Even though buttermilk is easier to digest than milk, those with sensitive systems may still react poorly, especially before bed.
• Anyone eating a late, heavy dinner: Pairing buttermilk with a late or rich meal can overload digestion right before sleep, when the body is least equipped to process it.

If you fall into any of these categories, sticking to morning or after-lunch buttermilk is the safer choice.

FAQ

1. Is it better to drink buttermilk before or after meals? After meals is generally better for digestion, as it helps break down food and reduces bloating. Before meals, in small amounts, can also aid digestion but is less commonly recommended for heavy meals.

2. Can I drink buttermilk every day? Yes, for most healthy adults, a daily glass — especially after lunch — is considered safe and beneficial for gut health.

3. Does buttermilk help with acidity? Yes, its mild lactic acid content can help neutralize excess stomach acid, making it a popular home remedy for mild acidity and heartburn.

4. Is buttermilk good for weight loss? Buttermilk is low in calories and fat compared to whole milk, and its probiotics support healthy digestion, which can indirectly support weight management goals.

5. Why do people say not to drink buttermilk at night? It's mainly due to its cooling nature and the slower digestion process at night, which may lead to congestion or bloating in sensitive individuals — though it isn't a strict rule for everyone.

Conclusion

For most people, drinking buttermilk after lunch is the best time for digestion, as it helps break down food, reduces bloating, and supports a healthy gut environment. Morning buttermilk is also an excellent choice for hydration and digestive support, while nighttime consumption is best kept to small amounts and earlier in the evening if it suits your body.

The ideal timing ultimately depends on your digestion, climate, and meal schedule. If you're unsure, start with a small glass after lunch and observe how your body responds.

---

This article is for general wellness information and isn't a substitute for personalized medical or nutritional advice. If you have specific digestive concerns, consult a doctor or dietitian.

Best Time to Take Isabgol for Constipation: Morning or Night?

 

Quick Answer

The best time to take Isabgol for constipation is usually before bed. Take 1–2 teaspoons with a full glass of water, followed by another glass of water. Many people find it helps produce a comfortable bowel movement the next morning.

If you've grown up in an Indian household, chances are there's a tin of Isabgol tucked away in your kitchen cabinet — the same one your mother or grandmother reached for whenever digestion slowed down. It's simple, natural, and has been a trusted home remedy for generations. But here's a question that trips up a lot of people: when should you actually take it?

Timing matters more than most people realize. Take Isabgol at the wrong moment, and you might barely notice a difference. Take it at the right moment, and it can make your mornings a whole lot easier.

What Isabgol Actually Does

Isabgol is psyllium husk — a soluble fiber that swells up when it meets water, turning into a soft, gel-like bulk. That bulk is what makes stool easier to pass. It's not a stimulant laxative and it doesn't force anything; it simply gives your gut more to work with. Because of this, it also isn't instant. Most people see results within 12 to 24 hours, sometimes up to 48 hours, depending on hydration, diet, and how regular you already are.

The Best Time: Right Before Bed

For constipation specifically, the most commonly recommended time is at night, before you go to sleep. Here's why it works so well:

• Your body has 6-8 uninterrupted hours to let the fiber absorb water and move through your intestines.
• The bulking effect quietly does its job overnight instead of competing with your daily meals and activity.
• Many people find this leads to a natural, comfortable bowel movement first thing in the morning.

How to take it: Mix 1–2 teaspoons of Isabgol into a glass of warm water or milk, stir well, and drink it right away — followed by a second glass of plain water. This second glass matters more than people think, since Isabgol needs enough liquid to expand properly instead of sitting thick in your stomach.

The Morning Alternative

If nighttime doesn't fit your routine, taking Isabgol first thing in the morning on an empty stomach is the next best option. Give it at least 30–60 minutes before breakfast so it has time to start working before food arrives. Some people respond even better to this timing than to a nighttime dose — it varies from person to person, so it's worth trying both and noticing which one your body prefers.

The After-Meal Option

Isabgol after lunch or dinner can also help, particularly if your constipation tends to flare up during the day. Just avoid taking it immediately after a large, heavy meal — give digestion a short head start first, then take your dose 30–60 minutes later.

A Few Things Worth Knowing

• Always follow it with plenty of water. Isabgol swells fast, and not drinking enough liquid alongside it is one of the most common reasons people feel bloated or, ironically, more backed up.
• Buttermilk is a classic Indian pairing. Mixing Isabgol into a glass of fresh buttermilk (chaas) is gentle on the stomach and a popular way to take it, especially at night.
• Keep 2 hours of distance from other medications. Because Isabgol forms a gel, it can interfere with how well your body absorbs certain medicines if taken too close together.
• It treats the symptom, not the cause. Isabgol is excellent for occasional relief, but if you're relying on it daily for months, it's worth looking at hydration, movement, and fiber-rich whole foods as the real long-term fix — not just the nightly workaround.

Which Timing Should You Choose?

Before bed: Overnight relief and morning regularity

Morning (empty stomach): Fresh start to the day

After a meal: Daytime constipation or heavier meals

📥 Free Download: 3-Day Gut Health Checklist

Track your water intake, fiber, and bowel regularity for 3 days to see what your body responds to.

👉 Download the Free Checklist

You May Also Like

• If you enjoy taking Isabgol with chaas, you may also like my article on Can Buttermilk Help Reduce Acidity?
• For a complete food guide, read my Piles Diet Chart for Vegetarians

---

Want to actually track what's working for your gut? Grab my free 3-Day Gut Health Checklist — it walks you through water, fiber, and bowel regularity so you can see exactly what your body responds to.

Buttermilk is good for weight loss and fitness

 Definition of buttermilk

Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that is traditionally made by adding a culture of lactic acid bacteria to low-fat milk. The bacteria convert lactose, the natural sugar in milk, into lactic acid, which gives buttermilk its tangy flavor and thick consistency. While the exact composition of buttermilk can vary depending on the specific production method, it typically has a low-fat content and a slightly acidic taste. Buttermilk is commonly used as an ingredient in baking, marinades, and dressings, as well as a refreshing beverage on its own.

Importance of weight loss

1. Improved overall health: Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes.
2. Improved energy levels: Losing weight can help increase energy levels, improve sleep quality, and reduce fatigue.
3. Improved self-esteem: Achieving weight loss goals can boost self-esteem and confidence.
4. Improved mobility: Losing weight can reduce pressure on joints and improve mobility, making physical activity and everyday tasks easier.
5. Improved mental health: Weight loss can lead to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
6. Increased lifespan: Maintaining a healthy weight can increase lifespan and overall quality of life.
It's important to note that weight loss should always be approached in a safe and sustainable manner, with a focus on making long-term lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes or fad diets.
Nutritional benefits of buttermilk

Buttermilk has several nutritional benefits, including:
1. Low in calories: Buttermilk is a low-calorie beverage, making it a great option for those looking to manage their weight.
2. High in protein: Buttermilk is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
3. Rich in calcium: Buttermilk is also a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
4. Contains probiotics: Buttermilk contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health and boost the immune system.
5. Low in fat: Buttermilk is traditionally made with low-fat milk, making it a lower-fat option compared to other dairy products.
6. Contains vitamins and minerals: Buttermilk contains several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, and potassium.
Overall, buttermilk can be a nutritious addition to a healthy and balanced diet. However, it's important to note that some commercially produced buttermilk may contain added sugars or preservatives, so it's important to read labels carefully when purchasing.

How buttermilk helps in weight loss

Buttermilk can be beneficial for weight loss for several reasons, including:
1. Promotes satiety: Buttermilk is high in protein, which can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce cravings for high-calorie snacks and desserts.
2. Boosts metabolism: The calcium and vitamin D found in buttermilk have been shown to help boost metabolism, which can aid in weight loss.
3. Reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body has been linked to obesity, and the probiotics found in buttermilk can help reduce inflammation in the gut.
4. Regulates digestion: The probiotics in buttermilk can also improve digestive health, which can aid in weight loss by promoting regular bowel movements and reducing bloating.
It's important to note that while buttermilk can be a helpful addition to a weight loss diet, it's not a magic solution for weight loss. Sustainable weight loss requires a combination of a healthy diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Ways to incorporate buttermilk in weight loss diet

There are several ways to incorporate buttermilk into a weight loss diet, including:
1. Drink it as a low-calorie beverage: Enjoy a cold glass of buttermilk as a refreshing and low-calorie alternative to sugary drinks like soda or juice.
2. Use it as a substitute for higher calorie ingredients: Buttermilk can be used as a substitute for higher calorie ingredients like cream or sour cream in recipes for dressings, dips, and baked goods.
3. Include it in smoothies and shakes: Add buttermilk to your favorite smoothie or shake recipe for a boost of protein and calcium.
4. Use it in marinades and dressings: Buttermilk can be used as a base for marinades and dressings, adding flavor and nutrition to your favorite dishes.

Precautions while consuming buttermilk for weight loss

While buttermilk can be a healthy addition to a weight loss diet, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
1. Consider the calorie content: While buttermilk is generally low in calories, it's important to consider the overall calorie content of your meals and snacks when incorporating it into your diet. Consuming excessive calories can hinder weight loss efforts.
2. Watch for added sugars: Some commercially produced buttermilk may contain added sugars or other additives. Be sure to read labels carefully when purchasing, and opt for plain, unsweetened buttermilk whenever possible.
3. Be mindful of lactose intolerance: Some individuals may be lactose intolerant, meaning they have difficulty digesting lactose, the natural sugar found in milk. If you experience digestive discomfort after consuming buttermilk or other dairy products, you may have lactose intolerance and should consult with a healthcare professional.
4. Practice moderation: While buttermilk can be a healthy addition to a weight loss diet, it's important to practice moderation and consume it as part of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption of any food or beverage can have negative effects on health.
5. Consider the overall quality of your diet: Incorporating buttermilk into a diet that is otherwise unhealthy and high in processed foods is unlikely to lead to significant weight loss. Be sure to prioritize a diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in combination with moderate portions of buttermilk.

Summary of benefits of buttermilk for weight loss

Buttermilk can be a beneficial addition to a weight loss diet for several reasons:
1. Promotes feelings of fullness due to its high protein content, which can reduce cravings for high-calorie snacks and desserts.
2. Helps to boost metabolism due to its calcium and vitamin D content.
3. Reduces inflammation in the gut due to the probiotics found in buttermilk, which has been linked to obesity.
4. Regulates digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and reducing bloating.
Incorporating buttermilk into a weight loss diet can be done in various ways, including as a low-calorie beverage, substitute for higher calorie ingredients, in smoothies and shakes, and as a base for marinades and dressings. However, it's important to keep in mind the calorie content, added sugars, and potential lactose intolerance when consuming buttermilk, as well as to practice moderation and prioritize a balanced diet with whole, nutrient-dense foods.

14 Foods that cause severe Constipation

Constipation is a common issue now days for many wherein the bowel movements are not regular. It is mainly due to the kind of food we intake. In medical terms when the bowel movements are less than 3 in a week, it means that you are constipated. Excessive Bloating, Gas and Pain while passing stool can also be related to Constipation.

Foods that cause Constipation

Just that there are certain foods that help to relive constipation .There are also certain foods that can make you severely constipated.

Bananas

When it comes to constipation banana is a food that one should avoid. Unripe or under ripe bananas can cause constipation as there is presence of lot of starch in them which makes it very hard for the body to digest. They also contain dietary fiber which draws water from the intestines towards the stool. Dehydration can worsen constipation.

Chewing Gum

If you swallow many pieces of chewing gum in a short while or if there is ingestion of too many chewing gums along with other indigestible foods then this can lead to a blockage in the digestive tract.This blockage can result in constipation.It is advisable to throw out the gum after chewing gum and not to take more than one to two sticks in a day.

Caffeine

Caffeine works in both ways .Either as a stimulant that results in excessive bowel movements or When a person is dehydrated , the caffeine in Chocolate, Colas ,Tea ,Coffee can lead to severe constipation.

Gluten foods

Gluten is one of the common causes of Constipation.Gluten is a kind of protein found in grains such as wheat,barley,rye.Those with Celiac Disease must avoid foods that contain gluten.There are many Gluten free foods that can replace the foods that you enjoy that contains gluten.

White Rice

White Rice can cause constipation as all the fibre and  nutrients are removed from it .Brown rice on the other hand can give relief from constipation as the husk,bran and germ have not been removed from it.

Red Meat

Red meat can make a person constipated and it can cause constipation for several reasons.As Red meat is high in fat so it takes longer time for the digestive tract to process it which makes it for the stomach difficult to digest.Also as it is rich in iron which can result in severe constipation.

White Bread

White Bread can cause constipation and even worsen it.This also is applicable for other products such as bagels and crackers.There is no fiber in White breadand our quite heavy in terms of starch content.

Alcohol

Alcohol also leads to constipation. Alcohol results in dehydration and slow down the digestion and irritate the bowel which can worsen constipation symptoms.

Chocolate

For those suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome should avoid intake of chocolate completely as the large amount of fat content in chocolate slows down the digestion process which actually happens due to slowing down of the muscle contractions and slowing foods moving through bowel.

Supplements

Intake of Iron and Calcium supplements can result in constipation.

Dairy Products

Milk, Cheese, Yoghurt and Ice cream can cause severe Constipation. The lactose in dairy products causes Bloating and Gas that can worsen the condition of constipation.

Fast Food

Fast food or Junk food like Pizzas and burgers are extremely high in fat content and low in fiber. Fried foods cause constipation. The nutritional value is nearly nil in these types of foods.

Rather than ordering from outside it would be better to have at home .You can make use Whole wheat burgers or Buns and try using a veg pattie made with minimal oil at home.

Rather than frying go for baked sweet potato fries.

Processed Food and Frozen dinners

There is no nutrition in processed food and the fat and salt content is extremely high.

·         White Bread

·         Pastries

·         Frozen Meals

·         Chips

·         Hot Dogs

Having these foods slows down the digestion process and causes constipation. Try having fruits and vegetables in natural form and drink enough water to keep the digestive process working normally.

Chips

Snacking on Potato chips is extremely unhealthy as they are high in fat,extremely low in fiber and nutrition.Potato chips slows down digestion and causes constipation.Instead much on raw veggies and they help to regulate the bowel movements.