The digestive system breaks down the foods consumed into nutrients that fuel bodily needs. Digestive health is indeed important. If neglected, the body could run into problems and will face difficulty in absorbing nutrients.
The foods you consume along with the lifestyle you live have a direct impact on your digestive health. Taking steps to improve your digestive health can help your digestive system function more efficiently and improve your overall health and sense of well-being.
Here are certain lifestyle changes that you can incorporate in your lives to keep your digestive health up and running contributing to overall wellbeing.
Eat plenty of fiber
A high-fiber diet helps to keep food moving through your digestive tract, making you less likely to get constipated. In addition, it can help you maintain a healthy weight by keeping you full for hours.
Go in for healthy fats
Good digestion may require eating enough fat. Fat helps you feel satisfied after a meal and is often needed for proper nutrient absorption. Foods high in good fats are omega-3 fatty acids that include flaxseeds, chia seeds, nuts especially walnuts, as well as fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Keep yourself hydrated
Low fluid intake is a common cause of constipation. In addition to water, you can also meet your fluid intake with herbal teas and other non-caffeinated beverages. Another way to help meet your fluid intake needs is to include fruits and vegetables that are high in water, such as cucumber, tomatoes, melons, strawberries, apples, and peaches.
Pay attention to your meal size
It’s easy to eat too much too quickly if you’re not paying attention, which can lead to bloating, gas and indigestion. Mindful eating is the practice of paying attention to all aspects of your food and the process of eating. Go in for smaller meals and only eat when you are hungry.
Chew your food properly
Poor chewing has been linked to decreased nutrient absorption. When you chew your food thoroughly, your stomach has to do less work to turn the solid food into the liquid mixture that enters your small intestine easing the digestion process.
Have a proper routine
Consume your meals and healthy snacks on a regular schedule can help keep your digestive system in top shape. Aim to sit down for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks around the same time each day.
Stay away from excess caffeine, alcohol, and junk food
Liquor, cigarettes, and too much coffee or other caffeinated beverages can interfere with the functioning of your digestive system and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn.
Add on some probiotics
Probiotics are the same kind of healthy bacteria and yeasts naturally present in your digestive tract. They help keep the body healthy by combating the effects of a poor diet, antibiotics, and stress.
Don’t forget to exercise
Regular exercise is one of the best ways to improve your digestion. Exercise and gravity help food travel through your digestive system. Therefore, taking a walk after a meal may assist your body in moving things along.
Manage stress
Stress can trouble your digestive system because those hormones directly affect your digestion. Incorporate stress management techniques, such as deep belly breathing, meditation, or yoga, as it may improve not only your mindset but also your digestion.
