What are the harms of not eating wheat-based foods for a long time?

Long-term avoidance of staple foods such as noodles may lead to various health risks including insufficient carbohydrate intake, lack of dietary fiber, deficiency in B-complex vitamins, inadequate energy supply, and intestinal dysfunction. Staple foods are an important source of daily nutrition, and their prolonged absence can impair normal bodily functions. If persistent fatigue or digestive abnormalities occur after avoiding such foods for a long time, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

1. Insufficient Carbohydrate Intake: Staple foods like noodles are rich in complex carbohydrates, which serve as the primary energy source for the human body. Long-term exclusion can result in inadequate energy supply, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating—particularly affecting cognitive performance and physical activities.

2. Lack of Dietary Fiber: Wheat-based noodle products contain abundant dietary fiber. Prolonged avoidance reduces support for intestinal motility, increasing the risk of constipation. It may also reduce satiety, making it harder to maintain stable weight and blood glucose levels.

3. Deficiency in B-Complex Vitamins: Staple foods are a significant dietary source of B-complex vitamins. Their long-term absence can impair nervous system function, causing irritability, insomnia, and peripheral nerve discomfort. It may also lead to metabolic disturbances and problems with skin and mucous membranes.

4. Inadequate Energy Supply: Complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy release. Avoiding staple foods over a long period can create an energy deficit, potentially triggering muscle breakdown and slowed metabolism. This leaves the body prone to chronic fatigue and reduced efficiency in daily activities.

5. Intestinal Dysfunction: The dietary fiber in staple foods helps regulate the balance of gut microbiota. Long-term absence disrupts the environment necessary for beneficial gut bacteria, impairing digestion and absorption, and possibly resulting in alternating symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

A balanced diet should include a proper combination of staple foods, whole grains, and legumes to ensure adequate and balanced carbohydrate intake. It should also incorporate fresh vegetables and high-quality protein sources to prevent a monotonous diet. Choosing whole wheat, buckwheat, or other whole-grain noodle alternatives can help maintain nutritional balance and support intestinal health, thereby sustaining normal metabolic function.