How to Achieve a Healthy Digestive System

Let’s be serious – food is AWESOME! It’s one of the greatest pleasures in life, offering nourishment and energy, and it’s also one of my favourite ways to gather friends and family around. Though we may indulge in rich foods from time to time, it’s important to consciously maintain a healthy digestive system by consuming the right foods and implementing sensible eating habits.

To maximize your digestive health, follow these simple tips:

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential to your digestive health. In fact, staying hydrated helps your body to break down and process food to absorb important nutrients.

Say Yes to High Fibre

One of the best ways to improve your digestive health is by maintaining a diet that is high in fiber and rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains. This keeps your digestive system running smoothly, helping to maintain a healthy weight.

Reduce High Fat Foods 

Though you do need healthy fats in your diet such as avocado, eggs, fish and nuts – processed foods and those filled with unhealthy fats tend to slow down your digestive process, which can lead to constipation.

Go Lean 

It’s no secret that you need protein as part of a balanced diet. Choose lean cuts of meat, such as skinless poultry or extra lean beef which are not only better for your digestive tract, but also more heart-healthy.

Pass the Probiotics 

Probiotics help keep your entire body healthy by counteracting the effects of a poor diet, antibiotics, and stress. Consumed on a daily basis, probiotics may also improve nutrient absorption, break down lactose, guard against stomach issues, and generally strengthen your immune system. Good sources of probiotics include low-fat yogurt or a probiotic supplement from your favourite natural health store.

Timing Matters 

Many experts agree that eating breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks  around the same time each day promotes proper digestion of your food. When you don’t eat at consistent times or over-indulge in a large meal it causes your stomach to overwork, which can cause bloating and indigestion. Practice your own timing, however I recommend you try eating every 3 to 4 hours to allow your stomach to properly digest its contents.