1. Eat a high-fiber diet
Foods that are high in fiber are known to promote digestive health. Incorporate a healthy mix of whole grains, vegetables, and legumes in your diet to ensure healthy bowel movements. Include both soluble (nuts, seeds, legumes) and insoluble fibers (wheat bran, whole grains, veggies) so you achieve the perfect balance. Apples are an excellent source of soluble fiber.
2. Avoid high-fat foods
One common misconception about fat is that it has no nutritional value, but what you may not know is that there are healthy kinds of fat found in some foods. For example, avocados are known to be one of the fattiest plant foods in the world but it is also rich in monounsaturated oleic acid (which is also found in olive oil) that’s believed to be beneficial to your overall health.
3. Drink lots of water
Staying hydrated is a basic rule for anyone who wants to stay healthy. Having enough fluids in your digestive system reduces the risk of constipation since it helps your colon create softer stools.
4. Never skip meals
Some studies emphasize the importance of eating small frequent meals to help boost metabolism. Skipping meals encourages binge eating and may cause hyperacidity.
5. Live an active lifestyle
Regular exercise supports digestive health since it helps you stay physically fit. Squeeze in a workout session (or two) whenever you can and make sure you end your workouts with healthy meals.
6. Say no to stress eating and caffeine
People cope with stress in different ways, others may eat too much while others may not eat at all. Consuming too much caffeine can also be a threat to your digestive system so stay away from coffee especially when you have an empty stomach.
7. Say yes to probiotics
Probiotics are often referred to as “healthy bacteria” that aid frequent stool movement, most especially in those who suffer from constipation. Common sources of probiotics include yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
8. Enhance your food menu
Eating healthy can be intimidating for most people since the usual concept is limiting your food choices. Preparing your own meals is a simple and cheap way to control your portions and track what goes inside your body. Mix in ingredients that are rich in vitamins and minerals such as whole grains, broccoli, beans, salmon, and ginger. If you think you’re not getting enough nutrients from your diet consult your doctor about taking food supplements to help aid with digestion.
9. Master the art of chewing
Proper mastication of your food can go a long way since your digestive system needs time to break down your food. According to Time magazine, chewing your food properly is said to even increase the number of calories your body burns after each meal.
10. Preventive measures
Some people can still suffer from indigestion even if they lead active lifestyles and this is due to other uncontrolled factors like age, heredity, and profession.
Always consult your doctor before drinking any kind of medication, including vitamins. Keep in mind that your physician is in the best position to prescribe the right kind of treatment for your condition. Immediately stop using a product if you experience negative side effects.
