How to Improve Your Digest Health
When it comes to maintaining the overall wellness of your body, taking care of your digestive system is just as important as the rest of your body. Unhealthy food and hectic lifestyles can result in stomach disorders such as constipation, stomach ache, reflux, abdominal pain, indigestion, gas, bloating and many more. By taking control of your digestive system, you can improve the well-being of your body and your overall health. Simple, proactive changes to your lifestyle and diet can greatly contribute to the improvement of your digestive health.
Tips to improve your digestive health
Include probiotics in your diet
Probiotics are the healthy bacteria that are present in your digestive tract. They strengthen your immune system and enhance nutrient absorption. Including rich sources of probiotics in your diet such as yogurt, tempeh, miso, soy, kefir and other fermented foods can help to strengthen your digestive system.
High-fiber diet
Fibrous food absorbs the water from your food and adds bulk to your stool. Eating ample amounts of green vegetables, whole wheat, whole grains, fruits and legumes such as beans and lentils can greatly aid in moving food through your digestive system and easing constipation.
Reduce processed food
Eating high amounts of processed foods increases the level of toxins and sugar in your body. Processed food slows down your digestion and augments constipation in your body. By reducing the intake of junk food and overly spicy or sweet food, you can lower the risk of any stomach ailment.
Water
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is the key to maintaining a healthy digestive system. Taking plenty of fluids lubricates the intestines and food we eat, and keeps the stool soft and easy to pass. Additionally, you can also drink fluids such as fresh-fruit juices or vegetable juice to build your digestive strength.
Regular exercises
Exercise provides natural contractions to your bowel movements, thus smoothing your digestion process. Exercising regularly by doing activities such as walking, running or aerobics can make an enormous difference to your digestive health.
Smaller meals
Instead of taking a traditional route of eating three huge meals in a day, if possible, try eating several small meals throughout the day. Your body is better at processing smaller quantities of food at a time. Additionally, eating small meals provides a steady amount of sugar to your body helping you to reduce your sugar cravings.
Alcohol and Caffeine
Excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine can interfere with the smooth functioning of your digestive system. These liquids are extremely hard to digest and can lead to problems such as stomach ulcers and heartburn. If possible, try to reduce the intake of alcohol and caffeine to negate its harmful effects on the body.
Managing stress
Psychological factors such as stress and tension are known to aggravate symptoms of digestion such as constipation, diarrhea and lowered immune system. Indulge in relaxing activities such as yoga or meditation to maintain your physical well-being as well your emotional well-being. Practicing these activities regularly will rejuvenate and relax your body and mind.
Chew your food well
Properly chewing your food serves as the first process to healthy digestion. Eating food properly and slowly, allows the salivary enzymes to start digesting the food in the mouth itself, and reduce the stress on the esophagus and stomach. Chewing helps stomach to metabolize your food and boost your digestive health.