Improving your digestion for a healthier body!
We’ve all heard the expression, ‘trust your gut.’ In natural medicine the gut is considered our second brain and oftentimes, when it comes to making choices that keep us healthy, it’s the one we should pay attention to. The importance of a well working digestive system cannot be overstated or under appreciated. Yet many of us consistently make choices that are counter productive to keeping this vital system working well. Therefore, how well our digestive system functions will really determine our overall health. When the gut is damaged, all sorts of health problems start to happen - from depression and mental health problems, autoimmune diseases, food allergies and even seasonal allergies. So, here are 4 tips to help keep your digestive system in tip top condition!
Avoid eating when you're stressed or emotional
When we are stressed, our bodies go into ‘fight or flight’ mode when the sympathetic nervous system is dominant. This means the body will shut down digestion in order to divert energy to the brain and muscles in order to respond to the stressful situation. After all, why would you need to digest your lunch when you are fleeing a tiger trying to hunt you down. However, simple breathing techniques can be an effective way to combat this. When we’re anxious or stressed out we tend to breathe through our mouths, which activates our sympathetic nervous system. Breathing through the nose does the opposite and puts us in parasympathetic (rest and digest) mode. So, try closing your eyes and taking three deep breaths in and out through the nose before eating!
Chew your food well
The simple trick of taking the time to chew can make your food go down smoother and faster. This is a simple tip, but one that so many people overlook. Digestive enzymes are secreted in the mouth by your salivary glands and work to start breaking down food, especially starches. The physical action of chewing also breaks down the food so that it’s ready to enter the stomach. Try chewing at least 20 times before swallowing each mouthful!
Include fermented foods in your diet
Fermented foods are being increasingly regarded as a superfood. The fermentation process has been shown to make the food more digestible and will introduce beneficial bacteria (also known as probiotics) into the digestive system. Probiotics have been shown to help improve bowel health, aid digestion and improve immunity. Some of the best fermented foods for you include fermented raw vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi, fermented dairy such as kefir and yoghurt and fermented drinks such as kombucha, beetroot kvaas and water kefir!
Start your day with a detoxifying drink
Start your morning with a glass of warm water and lemon. It can help kick start digestion, flush out toxins and put your bowels onto the right track! If you particularly suffer from reflux or bloating, try taking organic apple cider vinegar before meals to help stimulate digestion. Put 1/2 teaspoon in a small amount of water, swish and swallow before meals! Alternatively, you can also try out Tipson’s detox tea for a great start to your day.
Do not take your digestive system for granted. Make sure that you take good care of your digestion so that you are able to live a healthier and fitter life! In the meantime, if you are suffering from any digestion problems, do not take it lightly. Follow some of the tips we have listed above, or do make changes to your eating habits and lifestyle to ensure that your digestive system is healthy. Remember, even the smallest aches and pains can be your body warning you of a problem. Did you know that Tipson has a product dedicated to maintaining and improving your digestion? Tipson’s Digestive support is the perfect after meal drink to help you relieve yourself of any digestive discomforts while giving your body a natural boost!