Indigestion and heartburn after consuming uncooked flour dough can be attributed to a few different factors:
Uncooked flour: Raw flour contains natural enzymes called amylase that can be difficult for some people to digest. When flour is mixed with water, as in dough, these enzymes become active and can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.
High starch content: Flour dough is high in starch, which can be challenging to digest for some people, especially in its uncooked form. Starch requires adequate cooking to break down into more easily digestible forms.
Bloating and gas: When you consume uncooked dough, the yeast or baking powder/soda used in the recipe can still be active in your stomach, leading to the production of gas. This can cause bloating and discomfort.
Swelling in the stomach: The dough can continue to expand in your stomach due to the leavening agents like yeast or baking powder, causing feelings of fullness and discomfort.
Raw eggs: If the dough contains raw eggs, there is a risk of contracting foodborne illnesses like salmonella, which can cause symptoms like indigestion, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Lack of proper digestion: Uncooked dough generally lacks the essential changes that occur during baking, such as the denaturation of proteins and gelatinization of starches, which make the dough more digestible. As a result, the body may have difficulty breaking down and assimilating the raw dough.
Acid reflux: Some people may experience heartburn due to acid reflux when consuming uncooked dough, especially if they are already prone to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
To avoid these issues, it is best to refrain from eating raw flour dough. Instead, wait until the dough is properly cooked through baking or cooking before consuming it. This will ensure that the dough is safe to eat and easier to digest. If you accidentally consume uncooked dough and experience severe discomfort or any adverse symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention.