How to Improve Your Digestion

We’ve all experienced the discomfort and pain of poor digestion – from bloating to stomach cramps, it’s no pleasant experience. Often, digestive discomfort is caused by lifestyle-related factors, such as lack of physical activity and the food you eat. Here are some reasons why you might be experiencing poor digestion, as well as some digestion tips to help you fix it.

Eat More Fiber

Fiber is the ultimate solution for digestive problems. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body can’t break down. It helps create regular, healthy bowel movements and contributes to the health of gut bacteria. If you increase your fiber intake, make sure to drink enough water, or this can also be a cause of stomach pains and constipation. Fiber-rich foods include fruits and vegetables, beans, legumes, seeds, and whole grains.

Lower Stress

Stress (both acute and chronic) is a significant cause of digestive problems for many people. Has your stomach ever literally felt “in knots” before a big deadline or presentation? The effects of chronic stress are so detrimental that they can eventually lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Try meditation and yoga – which is great for relaxation and exercise – and give yourself more time to do things you enjoy.

Get Moving

Lack of physical activity can slow down the digestive system. When you don’t move, things in your digestive tract don’t move, either. Just like any other muscle in the body, the digestive tract needs to contract and relax to digest food properly. Go for daily walks, attend a fun fitness class, or go to the gym. Consistent exercise is much more important than sporadic, intense sessions.

Find Potential Food Intolerances

Food intolerances are similar to allergies, but the symptoms aren’t as obvious. The most common food intolerances are dairy (lactose intolerance) and gluten (found in wheat). Symptoms can present as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. If you suspect a food intolerance, try eliminating that food from your diet and see if the symptoms disappear. Then, reintroduce the food – if symptoms return, it’s a pretty clear indication of food intolerance. MagicKitchen.com offers many delicious dairy-free meals that you can choose from if you have lactose intolerance.

Digestion is vital for health, as it’s the process of absorbing nutrients from your food and eliminating waste. When digestion is poor, we feel the effects immediately. By drinking enough water, eating more fiber, exercising regularly, and eliminating potential food intolerances from your diet, you can help support your digestive system and stop those painful symptoms. We hope now you know how to improve your digestion.