1. Constipation
Our digestive systems are based on our genetics and dietary habits. Depending on the cut of the meat, some can be quite high in fat. Fats take time to be digested by the body and as a result, they may cause indigestion the next day. Constipation can be a result of the high iron that is found in meat. In addition, red meat is also low in fiber - this is necessary for regular bowel movement. One other reason to reduce your meat intake? Some studies have revealed that eating too much red meat can increase the chances of developing bowel cancer. So, reduce your red meat intake to 100-200g just twice a week and be sure to serve it with lots of vegetables and grains.
2. Constantly feeling hungry
If you feel hungry often, even if you've just finished a meal, it may indicate that you have too much protein. When you don't have enough carbs, your body's blood sugar goes down. Your body also won't produce the mood-regulating serotonin, the chemical that makes you feel hungry. So, if you notice that you're hungry, as opposed to opting for a sandwich for lunch, try a healthy snack like hummus with wholegrain crackers. Also, try to cut out meat for several days and notice if you feel better and fresher.
3. Dark circles under the eyes
Dark circles are not always an indication of lack of sleep or tiredness. Not digesting meat properly can be a cause, particularly if you get dark circles often, especially after eating meat. This is a clear sign that the meat was not properly digested. But how are dark circles caused by the consumption of meat? The compromised gut lining allows meat particles to pass through the gut wall and into the bloodstream, undigested. The body would regard this as a 'foreign' invader. As a result, the body will try to produce certain antibodies to eliminate the foreign substance, causing dark circles under the eyes. This symptom is often overlooked by health professionals.
4. High blood pressure
High blood pressure can be a sign that it is time to cut back on meat. The processed and cooked meats contain a high level of sodium because they are normally cured, seasoned and preserved with salt. Reduce eating chicken skin and red meat significantly as they are high in saturated fat and can lead to worsening hypertension and even to developing coronary heart disease.
5. Bad breath and body odor
Bad breath and body odor indicate another possible sign that your body is not digesting meat properly. If meat is not digested well, a smelly odor goes back out of the digestive system, making its way into your skin and breath. So, if you continue to experience these unpleasant issues, try taking digestive enzymes to assist in breaking the meat down so it doesn't accumulate in your gut.
6. Weakened immune system
If your body does not digest meat properly, you may notice you get sick more often than usual. The natural sugar found in red meat can affect your immune system. This sugar is normally produced by carnivorous animals which allows them to sustain their meat diets. But our bodies do not produce it and that is why the body may treat it as a foreign substance setting off a toxic immune reaction.
7. Fatigue
If you feel sluggish or tired after eating meat, it means that your body isn't digesting the meat properly and it is stuck in your bowels. With the meat trapped there, it diverts all your energy to your digestive system.
8. Nausea
This is a common symptom of not being able to digest meat well. It can be a reaction to certain bacteria found in meat. Some pregnant women find that eating meat may cause them to feel extremely nauseous. It could simply mean that your body is rejecting meat.
9. Bloating
Meat is one of the most difficult foods for the human body to digest because the protein found in meat is hard for us to break down and this can cause bloating. Fatty foods like meat can make your stomach empty slower, which causes bloating or discomfort. Improper digestion of meat can consequently, lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body.