Why do I Get Food Poisoning When Others Don’t?
Nutrition Diva explains why some people are more prone to food-borne bugs.
Q. I seem to get food poisoning about once a year but usually I am the only person in the group who gets it. What would make someone more susceptible to food poisoning? Is there anything I can do to increase my resistance?
Answer. Taking acid-blocking medications could potentially make you more susceptible to food-borne bacteria because one of the functions of stomach acid is to kill offending micro-organisms before they cause problems. If you are taking one of these medications on an ongoing basis, check out my episode on How to Avoid Reflux.
Including cultured or fermented foods like yogurt in your diet can fortify your gut with beneficial bacteria, making it more difficult for nasty bugs to take hold down there. Finally, seeing as you seem to be more susceptible, be extra scrupulous about washing your hands before eating or handling foods.
Related content:
How to kill E. coli on vegetables
Keeping your kitchen clean
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.
