The digestive system breaks food down into nutrients and energy that the body can use. Eating certain types of food or making sudden changes to the diet can result in problems with digestion like:
bloating
gas
constipation
diarrhea
nausea
vomiting
heartburn
To ensure a well-functioning digestive system, you need to eat foods that are easily digested and high in nutrients. On the other hand, it is important to keep away from foods causing the problems mentioned above. Let’s look at the foods aiding digestion and causing difficulty for the same.
Foods to add to your diet
Whole-grain foods
Whole-grain foods also have a high fiber content that aids digestion. The body breaks down these foods slowly, which helps control blood sugar levels.
Fruits
Many fruits are also rich in fiber. They also contain vitamins and minerals that are good for digestion, such as vitamin C and potassium. Apples, oranges, and bananas are nutritious fruits that could help with digestion.
Vegetables
Vegetables are rich in fiber, which is an important nutrient for digestion. Fiber stimulates the bowels to move stool out of the body. Add on some leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, lettuce, etc.
Yogurt
Many yogurt products contain probiotics. These are live bacteria and yeasts that may have benefits for the digestive system.
Ginger
Ginger is a plant that can reduce bloating and other digestive problems. Dried ginger powder is an excellent spice for flavoring meals, and a person can also use slices of ginger root to make tea.
Foods to avoid from your diet
Fried foods
They’re high in fat and can bring on diarrhea. Rich sauces, fatty cuts of meat, and buttery or creamy desserts can cause problems, too. Choose roasted or baked foods.
Artificial sugars
Food made with this artificial sweetener can cause indigestion leading to cramps, constipation, or diarrhea. Avoid drinks or candies and go in for fruit juices or fruits instead.
Too much fiber
Foods high in this healthy carb, like whole grains and vegetables, are good for digestion. But if you start eating lots of them, your digestive system may have trouble adjusting which leads to gas and bloating. So lookout for the fiber you eat gradually.
Spicy foods
Some people get indigestion or heartburn after eating them, especially when it’s a large meal. It is important to watch the spice level in the meals you consume.
Dairy products
Lactose intolerance can lead to diarrhea each time you eat a dairy product. It only means that you do not have the enzyme that digests any type of dairy. Thus, if you are one of them, it is advisable to stay away from dairy or limit intake.
Some habits can also hamper digestion. These include eating too fast and lying down immediately after eating. To enhance digestion, it is best to eat several small meals instead of one large one.
