Russian nutritionist warns against eating watermelon with bread

Russian nutrition specialist Dr. Darya Rusakova has cautioned against eating watermelon and bread in the same meal, saying the combination can cause bloating, intestinal fermentation and added strain on the pancreas. Rusakova noted that watermelon’s high fructose content combined with the carbohydrates in bread creates a mixture with a high glycemic index. She said the combination can cause blood sugar to rise rapidly in people with impaired glucose tolerance, while the intake of dense fiber alongside simple carbohydrates may also lead to gas, bloating and fermentation in the gut. The nutritionist advised people with diabetes, insulin resistance, glucose tolerance disorders, digestive system conditions, cardiovascular disease and kidney problems to avoid the food pairing. She also warned that marinating watermelon in soy sauce with high sodium content can contribute to fluid retention, and urged those prone to edema or high blood pressure to stay away from that preparation as well.