Digestive tract problems can cause one a lot of pain and embarrassment. Heartburn, diarrhoea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are some of the most common ones. Thankfully these can be easily managed & treated.
Watch How You Eat
Digestive issues aren’t just a product of what we eat, but also how. When eating,
- Have your meals in a relaxing environment as often as you can
- Take your time and chew the food slowly & thoroughly
- Be mindful- focus on the taste, feel & aroma of the food. Avoid distractions like the phone & TV
Insufficient water intake negatively affects digestion and leads to issues such as constipation. Take water throughout the day instead of waiting until you feel thirsty. However you should avoid taking water with your meal- this slows down enzymes responsible for digestion.
Supplements
Sometimes our bodies need extra help to get sufficient mineral levels. Zinc, for instance, is a mineral that supports good gut health. However, consult your doctor before taking supplements.
Nutritional Value
Processed food such as sweets and sodas may give you an instant sugar boost, but they’re loaded with unhealthy calories. Reduce your intake of junk food and replace it with whole/ organic food. The latter keeps you full for longer while nourishing the body.
Probiotics
These are useful bacteria that naturally occur in the digestive system. They help prevent infection and reduce chronic inflammation. You can take supplements or incorporate them into your diet by consuming kombucha, sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt and kimchi.
Manage Stress
Stress may not be completely avoidable, but it’s manageable. Digestion is negatively affected by stress due to high adrenalin levels. The body directs more energy to eliminating the source of threat, and away from digestion.
Exercise
You might be wondering what working out has to do with digestion, but it helps to get food moving. Moderate exercise such as walking and slow jogging and cycling help to relieve constipation.
