Importance of digestion
The process of digestion starts from the mouth and includes a number of organs that runs from the mouth to the anus. The chronological order of digestion is – the mouth – esophagus (food pipe)- stomach- small intestine – large intestine- anus.
A machine needs lubricants to maintain its efficiency. In the same way, the body needs nutrients for the proper functioning of the organs. The body meets the required nutrients from the food and water we consume. When eating or drinking something, the digestive system breaks the food into nutrients and waste. The nutrients are absorbed by the body and the waste is eliminated from the anus.
Things that can affect the function of the digestive system
Some of the things that can affect the proper functioning of the digestive system include –
- Eating at improper times
- Eating more than your body needs
- Intake of foods lacking fiber
- Eating mindlessly
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Certain medication
- Smoking
Improper digestion for a prolonged period can lead to obesity and other metabolic syndromes. Other common digestion problems include diarrhea, constipation, inflammation in the digestive system, ulcers, etc.
From the above-given points, it is evident that foods affect the digestive system and so we shall learn here some of the tips that can help you improve your digestion naturally.
Natural and simple remedies to improve digestion
Fibre rich diet
Increasing your fiber intake is the first step in improving your digestion. Generally, our food habits prevent us from a daily recommended dosage of fiber intake. It is essential to increase the fiber-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables to improve the bowel health and increase the stool frequency.
Do not wait for the body to demand water
Keep yourself hydrated by sipping water frequently. Water is important to main a healthy digestive system by keeping the intestinal surface moist and smooth and it acts as a lubricant to break down the food consumed. Your digestive system will be blessed with long and healthy life if you start your morning with two glasses of water.
Probiotics are pro in maintaining healthy digestion
These are the healthy bacteria that live in the digestive system and have a direct impact on the gut flora. Probiotics help in digestion and prevent chronic inflammation, or reduce the inflammation. You can feed your gut with healthy bacteria by eating fermented foods or taking probiotic supplements.
Improve or change eating habits
Food being the cause and cure of disease must be taken in proper quantity, proper time, and in a proper way. All these together hugely affects the digestive system. You can try the given food habits that can surely improve your digestion.
- Be relaxed when you eat and focus on the food you are eating. Avoid television or mobiles or any other distraction while eating. Feel the texture of the food, the look, its taste, and the smell of the food.
- Avoid eating when you are under stress, this affects the efficiency of the digestive system.
- Chewing your food thoroughly can relieve your digestive system from the extra effort required to break down the food. This starts the digestion in the mouth, makes it easier for the food to pass through the food pipe, and helps in better breakdown and absorption of food.
Eat real foods
Eating whole, nutritious foods rejuvenates the body and improves the process of digestion. Some of the ways to eat right are saying no to artificial sweeteners and staying away from processed foods.
Keep yourself active
Keeping yourself active will keep the digestive system on its toes. This means the digestive system remains healthy and is quick in responding to the foods and drinks you consume.
Manage your stress
Stress affects gut health and interferes with the passage of food through the body. It may cause constipation or diarrhea leading to pain in the abdomen, nausea, heartburn, etc. stress relieving techniques can help in reversing digestive problems.
Drink green tea or any detox drinks
Drinking green tea on regular basis is effective in improving the digestive system. Getting rid of toxins helps reverse any digestive problems.
To wind up
Food is medicine and also a cause of health problems. To keep the digestive system fit it is important to follow the tips we have learned in this article. Keeping the digestive system healthy is not a tough task, the remedies are easy to follow and can help in reversing the digestive problems naturally. Changes in food habits can make a big difference in the digestive system.