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question

Is it true that I should not eat meats and starches at the same time?

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
That is an old myth that still resurfaces in popularity every once in a while. The premise behind the myth is that enzymes for digestion of protein and starch occur in different areas of the intestine, so combining them will somehow confuse the body and cause all sorts of problems. The human body is amazing in its design, and can definitely handle meat and potatoes at one sitting. During the digestive process, the food eaten is exposed to enzymes and mashed and squished by the intestinal muscles into a paste called chyme. This mixing motion in the guts allows the food to be continuously exposed to the enzymes so that digestion, and ultimately absorption, can occur. There is absolutely no published data or research to lend validity to the belief that food should be separated.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.