Are you a fan of hoisin sauce?
This rich and savory condiment is a staple in many Asian cuisines, adding a delicious depth of flavor to dishes like stir-fries and marinated meats.
But have you ever wondered if hoisin sauce could be causing your digestive issues, like diarrhea?
In this article, we’ll explore the potential link between hoisin sauce and diarrhea, as well as other foods that could be contributing to your GI discomfort.
So, if you’re ready to learn more about how your favorite foods could be affecting your gut health, keep reading!
Can Hoisin Sauce Cause Diarrhea?
Hoisin sauce is typically made with fermented soybean paste, spice blends, sugar, garlic, and chili peppers. While these ingredients may not seem like they would cause digestive issues, it’s important to note that commercial hoisin sauce often contains wheat flour as a thickener and soy sauce, which may contain wheat.
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming hoisin sauce with wheat flour could lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues. Additionally, garlic is high in the FODMAP fructan, which can also cause diarrhea in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders.
It’s important to note that hoisin sauce has not been explicitly tested for FODMAP content by the Monash University FODMAP Diet app. However, it’s possible that hoisin sauce could be high in FODMAPs due to its garlic content.
If you suspect that hoisin sauce is causing your diarrhea or other digestive issues, it may be best to avoid it or look for a gluten-free and low-FODMAP alternative.
What Is Hoisin Sauce?
Hoisin sauce is a rich and savory brown sauce commonly used in Cantonese cuisine and widely used across Asia. It is often used for marinating meats, stir-fries, or as a simple dipping sauce. The main ingredients in hoisin sauce include fermented soybean paste, spice blends, sugar, garlic, and chili peppers. However, it’s important to note that commercial hoisin sauce may also contain wheat flour as a thickener and soy sauce, which may contain wheat.
Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should be cautious when consuming hoisin sauce with wheat flour as it could lead to digestive issues like diarrhea. Additionally, garlic is high in the FODMAP fructan, which can cause diarrhea in individuals with IBS or other digestive disorders.
While hoisin sauce has not been explicitly tested for FODMAP content by the Monash University FODMAP Diet app, it’s possible that hoisin sauce could be high in FODMAPs due to its garlic content. Therefore, individuals who suspect that hoisin sauce is causing their diarrhea or other digestive issues should consider avoiding it or looking for a gluten-free and low-FODMAP alternative.
Ingredients In Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce is a rich and savory brown sauce with origins in Cantonese cuisine. Its main ingredients include fermented soybean paste, spice blends, sugar, garlic, and chili peppers. However, commercial hoisin sauce often contains wheat flour as a thickener and soy sauce, which may contain wheat.
The use of wheat flour in commercial hoisin sauce can cause digestive issues for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Consuming hoisin sauce with wheat flour could lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues. Additionally, garlic is high in the FODMAP fructan, which can also cause diarrhea in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders.
It’s worth noting that not all hoisin sauces are created equal. Some brands may use different ingredients or have varying levels of FODMAPs. If you’re unsure about the ingredients in your hoisin sauce or suspect that it may be causing your digestive issues, it’s best to check the label or consult with a healthcare professional.
Other Foods That Could Contribute To Digestive Issues
Aside from hoisin sauce, there are other foods that could contribute to digestive issues. For example, tomato sauce and citrus fruits like lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit are acidic and can irritate the stomach lining, causing digestive problems. Carbonated beverages are also acidic and can lead to similar issues.
Additionally, sugar alcohols like maltitol and sorbitol, which are often found in sugar-free gums, sweets, and ice cream, can have a laxative effect and create gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, distention, and stomach disturbance. Some people simply lack the ability to absorb them properly.
Furthermore, some natural food products like soy milk, low-fat yogurt, salad dressing, and ice cream may contain carrageenan as a stabilizer. Carrageenan is a gum derived from seaweed that can cause gut issues and may even cause inflammation leading to ulcerations and inflammatory bowel disease (IBS). It’s important to check the ingredient list for carrageenan and avoid it if possible.
Lastly, rich sauces, fatty cuts of meat, and buttery or creamy desserts can also cause digestive problems. Choosing roasted or baked foods and light sauces that feature vegetables instead of butter or cream may be a better option for those with sensitive stomachs.
Tips For Managing Digestive Discomfort
If you’re experiencing digestive discomfort after consuming hoisin sauce or any other food, there are several tips you can follow to help manage your symptoms:
1. Keep a food diary: Write down everything you eat and drink, as well as any symptoms you experience. This can help you identify trigger foods and make necessary adjustments to your diet.
2. Avoid trigger foods: If you suspect that hoisin sauce or another food is causing your symptoms, try eliminating it from your diet for a period of time to see if your symptoms improve.
3. Choose low-FODMAP options: For individuals with IBS or other digestive disorders, choosing low-FODMAP alternatives can help alleviate symptoms. Look for hoisin sauce made without garlic or with a low-FODMAP garlic substitute.
4. Eat slowly and mindfully: Eating too quickly or while distracted can lead to digestive discomfort. Take your time while eating and focus on chewing your food thoroughly.
5. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate digestive issues, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
6. Consider probiotics: Probiotics can help improve gut health and alleviate digestive issues. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether probiotics may be helpful for you.
Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re experiencing chronic or severe digestive issues, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Conclusion: Is Hoisin Sauce Safe To Eat?
In conclusion, hoisin sauce is generally safe to eat for individuals who do not have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, and who are not sensitive to FODMAPs. The shelf life of hoisin sauce depends on whether it is unopened or opened, and how it is stored. An unopened jar of hoisin sauce can last up to 3 years if stored correctly, while an opened jar can last up to 18 months if consistently refrigerated.
While hoisin sauce contains garlic, which is high in FODMAPs, it has not been explicitly tested for FODMAP content by the Monash University FODMAP Diet app. Therefore, individuals with digestive disorders should be cautious when consuming hoisin sauce and may want to consider avoiding it or looking for a low-FODMAP alternative. Overall, as with any food product, it’s important to be aware of the ingredients and potential allergens in hoisin sauce and consume it in moderation.
