Biscuits are a beloved comfort food for many, whether paired with gravy, jam, or just enjoyed plain. However, for some, this seemingly simple snack can lead to digestive discomfort, bloating, or indigestion. If you’re one of those people who often finds themselves regretting that extra biscuit, you’re not alone. Fortunately, with a few adjustments, you can still indulge in your biscuit cravings without the discomfort. Here are seven tips to help you enjoy biscuits without upsetting your stomach.

1. Choose Whole Grain or Gluten-Free Options

Why It Helps:
Traditional biscuits made from refined white flour can cause digestive issues for some people, especially those with gluten sensitivity. Whole grain biscuits, on the other hand, contain more fiber, which helps improve digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber-rich foods also promote a healthy gut microbiome, making them easier on the stomach.

If you’re gluten-sensitive or suffer from celiac disease, consider opting for gluten-free biscuits. These biscuits are made from alternative flours such as rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour, which are easier to digest for those avoiding gluten.

Tip: Look for biscuits made with whole wheat or other whole grains. For gluten-free options, check the ingredients to ensure there are no hidden sources of gluten.

2. Avoid Overeating

Why It Helps:
One of the main reasons biscuits upset the stomach is simply eating too many at once. Biscuits, while delicious, are calorie-dense and can be heavy, leading to bloating, indigestion, and discomfort if consumed in large quantities.

Tip: Stick to a moderate portion size. If you’re serving biscuits as a side, limit yourself to one or two, depending on their size. Eating slowly and mindfully can also help your body digest more efficiently, reducing the risk of discomfort.

3. Watch the Fat Content

Why It Helps:
Many biscuits are made with butter, lard, or heavy oils, which can be harder to digest, especially for people with sensitive stomachs. High-fat foods tend to slow down digestion, potentially leading to feelings of heaviness, bloating, or indigestion.

Tip: Choose biscuits made with healthier fats like olive oil, or opt for low-fat recipes that use less butter or shortening. You can even try making your own biscuits using healthier ingredients that are gentler on your digestive system.

4. Pair Biscuits with Digestive-Friendly Foods

Why It Helps:
Sometimes it’s not the biscuit itself but what you’re pairing it with that causes digestive issues. Creamy gravies, rich sauces, and sugary jams can all add extra fats and sugars, which can overwhelm your digestive system. To avoid this, pair your biscuits with foods that support digestion.

Tip: Pair your biscuits with lean proteins like turkey or chicken, or top them with a healthy spread like avocado or a small amount of nut butter. Adding fruits or vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes or leafy greens, can also help balance out the meal and promote easier digestion.

5. Opt for Lighter, Airier Biscuits

Why It Helps:
The texture of your biscuits plays a role in how easily they are digested. Biscuits that are overly dense or heavy can take longer to break down in the stomach, leading to bloating or discomfort. Opting for lighter, fluffier biscuits can ease digestion.

Tip: Use baking powder or baking soda as a leavening agent for a fluffier biscuit texture. These ingredients help the dough rise, creating air pockets that make the biscuits lighter and easier to digest.

6. Be Mindful of Additives and Preservatives

Why It Helps:
Pre-packaged or store-bought biscuits often contain preservatives and artificial additives that may irritate the digestive system, particularly for people with sensitive stomachs. These chemicals can disrupt the balance of your gut bacteria, leading to bloating, discomfort, or even allergic reactions.

Tip: If you’re sensitive to additives, try making homemade biscuits using simple, whole-food ingredients. This allows you to control what goes into your biscuits, ensuring that they are free of artificial ingredients that could upset your stomach.

7. Include Digestive Herbs and Spices

Why It Helps:
Certain herbs and spices have long been used to soothe digestion and reduce bloating. Incorporating these into your biscuit recipes or pairing them with your biscuits can help prevent digestive discomfort.

Tip: Add digestive-friendly spices like ginger, turmeric, or cinnamon to your biscuit dough. These spices not only add flavor but can also reduce inflammation and promote better digestion. Ginger, in particular, is well-known for its ability to relieve nausea and bloating.

The Bottom Line

Biscuits don’t have to be off-limits for those with sensitive stomachs. By making mindful choices when selecting ingredients, adjusting your portion sizes, and pairing your biscuits with digestive-friendly foods, you can enjoy this beloved treat without discomfort. Whether you opt for whole grain or gluten-free biscuits, use healthier fats, or spice up your biscuits with digestive herbs, these tips can help you savor your biscuits and keep your digestive system happy.

FAQs

Q: Are biscuits bad for digestion?
A: Biscuits can be hard to digest for some people, particularly those made with refined flour, high-fat ingredients, or added preservatives. However, with the right adjustments, such as opting for whole grain or gluten-free biscuits, eating in moderation, and pairing with digestive-friendly foods, they can be enjoyed without digestive issues.

Q: Can I make my own biscuits to improve digestion?
A: Yes! Making homemade biscuits allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they are lighter, healthier, and easier on your digestive system. Using whole grains, healthier fats, and adding digestive herbs like ginger or cinnamon can make your biscuits both tasty and tummy-friendly.

Q: What can I pair with biscuits to aid digestion?
A: Pair biscuits with lean proteins, fresh vegetables, or healthy fats like avocado. These foods support digestion and balance out the richness of biscuits, helping prevent bloating and discomfort.

By following these simple tips, you can keep enjoying biscuits without worrying about upsetting your stomach.