Poha is a very popular breakfast choice because of its nutritional value, adaptability, and lightness. However, did you know that it is not recommended for frequent use, particularly if you have digestive problems? Celebrity dietitian Shweta Shah, who has collaborated with Deepika Padukone, Rishabh Pant, Katrina Kaif and others has stated the same.
“A typical mistake is poha. I am not saying that poha is not a good breakfast. It is good for people who have very good digestion and whose lifestyle is very active because poha is very difficult to digest. So, it may lead to constipation, piles, and acidity. People don’t notice it,” Shah said in a conversation with yoga trainer Shlloka.
Due to its high carbohydrate content and relatively low fiber content, poha is frequently advised for those with good digestion, according to Dr. Haricharan G, senior consultant physician, HoD, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad. “Flattened rice is a processed grain, making it easier to digest, but it lacks the high fibre content that typically aids in regular bowel movements,” said Dr Haricharan.
Poha gives people who have good digestion a rapid energy boost without overtaxing their digestive tract. But according to Dr. Haricharan, the lesser fiber level might not adequately promote healthy digestion or bowel movements in people with gastrointestinal disorders or slow digestion.
Poha is also frequently made with peanuts, onions, and spices, which might be harder for people with sensitive stomachs to handle. “Therefore, while poha is a wholesome and light meal, it’s most suitable for those whose digestive systems can efficiently handle and process such foods, ensuring they reap its benefits without experiencing discomfort,” noted Dr Haricharan.
Dr. Haricharan said that adding poha to a balanced diet or serving it with a side of high-fibre vegetables may assist people with digestive problems avoid any problems.
The following was supplied by Manpreet Kaur Paul, a dietitian at the Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in Faridabad: The Poha Smoothie Bowl, Mix yoghurt, a banana, honey, and soaked poha. Add a few berries or nuts on top, along with digestive-friendly garnishes like flaxseeds and chia seeds. Probiotics are added when poha and yogurt are combined, and fruit and seed fiber promotes a healthy digestive system. Poha Stuffed Bell Peppers: Make a poha mixture with spices, sautéed onions, and herbs that aid with digestion, such as carom seeds or fennel. Fill hollowed-out bell peppers with this mixture, then bake them until they are soft. Herbs increase the action of digestive enzymes, and bell peppers contribute fiber and vitamin C. Lentil Soup with Poha: Prepare a mild lentil soup with ginger, cumin, and turmeric. Near the end, add the soaked poha and cook it for a few minutes till it becomes tender. While spices have anti-inflammatory qualities, lentils and poha together offer protein and fiber that promotes easy digestion.
