HEALTH Gut Health

5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Digestion Naturally

May 09, 2023

The process by which our bodies transform the nutrients in food into forms that can be absorbed by our cells and put to use by them is called digestion.

Despite this, a significant number of people suffer from digestive problems such as bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhoea.

The good news is that there are various natural methods that may be utilised to both enhance digestion and reduce the painful sensations.


In this article, we will explore five simple strategies to naturally enhance your digestion:

5. Eat a fiber-rich diet

Consume a diet that is high in fibre since fibre is critical for digestive health. It promotes regular bowel movements, protects against constipation, and nourishes the healthy bacteria already present in your digestive tract.


Your goal should be to get at least 25-30 grammes of fibre per day from whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

If you want to avoid digestive pain, gradually increase the amount of fibre you consume.


4. Stay hydrated:

Maintaining a healthy level of hydration is vital for proper digestion. It prevents constipation, helps move food through your digestive system, and softens the faeces that you pass.


Aim to consume at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, and aim for even more if you engage in strenuous activity or live in a warm region.

You can also drink various types of fluids that will help you stay hydrated, such as bone broth, coconut water, or herbal tea.


3: Practice mindful eating:

The practise of eating thoughtfully can help improve digestion by lowering stress levels and allowing you to become more attuned to your body's cues regarding when it is hungry and when it is full.


Take your time chewing your food completely, savour the flavours, and steer clear of distractions like the television or your phone as you eat.

Eat in an environment that is calm and peaceful, and try not to eat too quickly.


2. Exercise regularly:

Regular exercise can assist improve digestion in a number of ways, including lowering stress levels, encouraging regular bowel movements, and boosting the amount of blood that flows to the digestive tract.


Aim to do at least 30 minutes of exercise of a moderate level on most days of the week. Some examples of such exercises include running, cycling, and brisk walking.

It's best to avoid doing vigorous exercise shortly after meals if you want your digestion to go smoothly.


1. Manage stress:

Take steps to manage your stress. Stress can make digestion more difficult by slowing down your digestive system and causing symptoms such as bloating, gas, and constipation.


Find healthy ways to deal with stress, such as meditating, practising yoga or other forms of exercise that involve deep breathing, or spending time outdoors.

Create space in your schedule for enjoyable pursuits like hobbies and activities that help you unwind.


These are just a few simple strategies that can help you improve your digestion in a natural way. You may promote healthy digestion and lessen uncomfortable symptoms by implementing these behaviours into your daily routine so that you can support healthy digestion.


In conclusion, proper digestion is absolutely necessary for achieving and maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Eating a diet high in fibre, staying hydrated, practising mindful eating, engaging in regular physical activity, and finding healthy ways to manage stress are all excellent methods to enhance digestion naturally. You can improve the way you feel, have more energy, and experience an overall improvement in the quality of your life by taking care of your digestive system.


References:

  1. Harvard Health Publishing. (2018). Fiber: Why it Matters More Than Ever. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/fiber-why-it-matters-more-than-ever-2018081614421
  2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2020). Drinking Enough Water. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-works/drinking-enough-water
  3. Harvard Health Publishing. (2019). Mindful Eating May Help With Digestive Woes. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/mindful-eating-may-help-with-digestive-woes-2019030716020
  4. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Exercise and Physical Activity for Digestive Health. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/exercise-digestive-health
  5. American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Stress and Eating.