side effects of drinking buttermilk at night - #20096
I am really curious about the side effects of drinking buttermilk at night. Lately, I’ve started to have it before bed because I heard it aids digestion. But, I noticed some weird things. For a couple of weeks now, everytime I drink buttermilk at night, I end up feeling kinda bloated and sometimes I even wake up in the middle of the night with mild stomach pains. It’s like my stomach just doesn’t want to settle. I thought buttermilk was supposed to be good for my gut tho? Also, my mom used to say drinking it at night was great, is that not true anymore? I don't know if it’s even related but I also feel a bit nauseous some mornings after having it, which doesn’t make sense. I mean, I love buttermilk, but I don't wanna mess up my health either! Do you guys know if there’s actual evidence about the side effects of drinking buttermilk at night? Like, can it really cause these rumbling tummy issues or am I just overthinking it? I hope I’m not having some allergy or something crazy! Would love anyone's thoughts on this because I really don’t want to give it up!
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Doctors' responses
Drinking buttermilk at night can have different effects depending on individual tolerance and overall digestive health, and it sounds like your recent discomfort might be a sign to evaluate its role in your routine. Buttermilk is generally considered beneficial because it contains probiotics, which can support gut health. However, for some people, having dairy-based products before bed might lead to digestive issues, such as bloating or stomach discomfort, especially if lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivity exists. Given your symptoms, consider whether you might have developed such a sensitivity, as this can happen gradually over time. Feeling bloated or experiencing mild stomach pain could result from lactose or the rich consistency of buttermilk not settling well with your nighttime digestion. It can also contribute to nocturnal reflux due to its acidity, particularly if you lie down soon after consuming it. To determine if buttermilk is the cause, try eliminating it from your evening routine for a week or two and observe any changes in your symptoms. If your discomfort subsides, that might be a clue. If not, and symptoms persist, it might be worthwhile exploring further with a healthcare provider to rule out other possible digestive issues. Keeping a food diary can also help identify any other connections with diet and nighttime symptoms. If it turns out buttermilk is a no-go at night, but you want to keep its benefits, try having it earlier in the day. And, as always, if there’s pain or persistent nausea that worsens, consulting with a healthcare professional would be a wise next step to ensure there’s no underlying condition that needs attention.
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