8 Natural Ways To Boost Your Digestive System

A strong digestive system is central to having a healthy life. Digestion is an important process as it breaks down food into various nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins which are utilized by the body to generate energy and repair cells.

Here are some of the ways to get your digestive system function well:

1. Stay hydrated :

Low intake of fluids leads to constipation. Drinking a sufficient amount of water improves your overall health as it aids the circulation of nutrients to every part of the body, improves digestion and removes toxins from the body.

It is advisable to consume foods with high water content such as watermelon, cucumber, orange, pineapple, lettuce, celery, and spinach so you can get the daily recommended percent. Drinking lukewarm water first thing in the morning also aids digestion.

2. Add probiotics to your diet :

Probiotics are bacteria and enzymes that are good for the digestive system. These good bacteria aid digestion and nutrient absorption.

Yogurt, pickles, olives, kefir, soy milk, cheese, and other fermented foods are sources of probiotics, are gut-friendly and should be a part of your diet. However, moderation is key here.

3. Have a fiber-rich diet :

Having a diet that is rich in fiber is one of the best ways to prevent constipation and keep your digestive system healthy.

All fruits, vegetables, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains are rich sources of dietary fiber. They regulate digestion, normalize bowel movements and keep the blood sugar from spiking.

4. Exercise regularly :

Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy body. It increases the blood flow and oxygen supply throughout the body which, in turn, boost digestion and strengthen the abdominal muscles.

Exercising regularly promotes gut function and increases intestinal activity in order to prevent digestive problems such as bloating, gas or constipation.  

5. Stress management :

Stress affects the body as a whole. It increases the production of cortisol, slows down the digestive system, probably wreaks havoc with your food choices and eating habits.

Stress can also trigger such digestive ailments as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, ulcer and acid reflux. Therefore, find the best way to de-stress.

6. Quit smoking and alcohol :

Smoking and alcohol increase stomach acid, leading to acid reflux, heartburn, stomach ulcers, and overall poor health.

Therefore, it is important, for your overall health, to gradually cut down on unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol ingestion until you finally stop.

7. Eat healthy foods :

There is a direct relationship between what you eat and your digestive health. It is better to avoid foods that upset your stomach and go for healthy foods that contain fruits, vegetables, seeds, whole grains, probiotics, fresh juices, and smoothies.

8. Chew your food properly :

Proper digestion of food and absorption of nutrients is made easy when the food is chewed properly before it is swallowed.

Properly chewed food aid the release of digestive enzymes that break down the food so it can be converted into energy.