5 Tips To Improve Your Digestive Health

October 15 2013

5 Tips To Improve Your Digestive Health

Poor digestion affects the body in a number of different ways. Rather than passing food normally, it builds up in the intestines where the problem becomes progressively worse over time. The exact symptoms vary from person to person, but it’s not uncommon for individuals with poor digestion to experience acid reflux, heartburn, constipation, ulcers, gallstones and lactose intolerance. The good news is that you can improve your digestive health by following some simple tips.

Tip #1) Eat More Yogurt

Yogurt contains colonies of healthy bacteria known as probiotics. It’s a common assumption that bacteria is bad for your health. While some bacteria is certainly bad, there are others which are beneficial. Probiotics is one group of ‘beneficial’ bacteria that works to break down food in your digestive tract. Eating a cup of low-fat yogurt for breakfast or a mid-day snack is an excellent way to boost your digestive health.

Tip #2) Drink Filtered Water (Not Tap)

Another important tip for improving your digestive health is to drink filtered water. Tap water contains chlorine and other harsh chemicals which slow down the digestive process. Small amounts of chlorine probably won’t cause any ill effects to your health, but it will kill the healthy germs in your digestive system. The bottom line is that you should avoid tap water and only drink filtered water if you are experiencing digestive problems.

Tip #3) Drink a Smoothie

Drinking fruit smoothies is a helpful way to kick start your digestive system. Try blending a banana with some strawberries, blueberries and skim milk. All of the fibrous content from the fruit will clean your digestive system out while giving you a boost of energy. Just remember to limit your fruit smoothie intake to 1-2 per day, as they contain a moderately high amount of sugar.

Tip #4) Take a Priobiotic Supplement

Don’t rely only on yogurt for your source of probiotics. If you’re really looking to improve your digestive health, try taking a probiotic supplement on a daily basis. The additional probiotics play a key role in breaking down undigested food. Be sure to check out selection of digestive enzymes and probiotics listed here.

Tip #5) Fiber, Fiber and More Fiber

Of course, incorporating more fiber into your diet will naturally help aid in digestion. Focus your diet around whole grains with fresh vegetables and fruit for maximum fiber intake. Fiber is nature’s own laxative, so consuming a diet rich in it will help flush out your digestive system.