The digestive system breaks down the foods we eat into nutrients that power the body. Neglecting your digestive health can leave you feeling sluggish and with digestion complications. Thankfully, it's easier than you'd think to care for your digestion system as your lifestyle and the foods you eat directly impact digestion and can make all the difference.
Eating more fiber-rich foods can greatly improve your digestive health, helping food move more smoothly through the digestive tract. A higher fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also prevent and treat many digestive health conditions to lessen uncomfortable symptoms.
Protein is a crucial component of a healthy and balanced diet, but fatty cuts of meat can cause digestive discomfort. When choosing meats for your meals, try opting for more chicken, turkey, pork loin, and other lean cuts. Also, be conscious of portions, and don't forget to fill your plates with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Fatty foods can slow down digestion, leaving you more prone to constipation. In addition, eating foods high in fat and processed consistently can leave you at a higher risk of developing digestive disorders.
Probiotics are just like healthy bacteria that naturally exist throughout the digestive tract. They aid in nutrient absorption and work to protect the digestive system from the effects of a poor diet, stress, and even antibiotics. Those with irritable bowel syndrome may significantly benefit from the effects of probiotics in the body to aid in digestion.
Do you drink enough water? Staying hydrated with plenty of water every day can drastically improve your digestive health. Water helps not only keep your body flushed and refreshed; it helps your colon produce softer and bulkier stools that pass through more easily.
A tip often recommended by gastroenterologists, eating your meals and snacks at similar times each day can help your digestive system stay in tip-top shape.
Too much anxiety and stress can cause your digestive system to take the brunt of those nervous feelings and cause it to go into overdrive. For those who feel often stressed, finding ways to safely reduce and expel stress can lead to long-lasting improvements in your digestive health.
