
Have we not been reminded time and again that a healthy digestive system is the key to a healthy body? However, your digestive health remains one of the most neglected health issues. Issues related to the digestive system are probably very common and can range from diarrhoea, nausea, gas, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to bloating and constipation. A poor digestive system not only impacts human body functions and your day-to-day life but can also be discomforting and embarrassing at times.
There are several easy ways for keeping your digestive system healthy naturally. To begin with, opt for a healthy lifestyle comprising the following food habits:
- Eat healthy food: Choosing fresh and whole foods over processed, canned, fast food and artificial sweeteners is a must for a healthy digestive system. Home-cooked foods improve digestion. Healthy foods also include soluble and insoluble fibres which help your digestive system to absorb water and keep the food moving through the digestive tract.
- Drink a lot of water: The digestive system needs water to function smoothly, so you should stay hydrated. Water allows the bulkier stool to pass through easily. Another advantage of drinking more water is that you are drinking less of soda, which is not so healthy for your digestive system. The fluid intake can be adjusted with other options like soups, coconut water, or fresh juices too.
- Take probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics can be consumed by adding curd/yogurt and fermented food into your diet. The probiotics help in digestion by supporting the healthy bacteria. Consuming prebiotics also helps to maintain the health of your digestive tract. This is because probiotic bacteria feed on prebiotics, helping your gut to stay healthy.
- Choose lean meats: Non-vegetarian food is a good source of protein, which is an essential part of a healthful diet. Incorporate meat without fat in your diet to avoid any digestive discomfort. Be mindful of the portion size of meat. Put more veggies, fruits and whole grains than meat on your plate.
- Leave bad habits like smoking, excessive caffeine, and alcohol: In order to allow the digestive system to function properly, it is essential to avoid indulgence in liquor, cigarettes, and too much coffee or other caffeinated beverages. These can affect the digestive system and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn.
Follow these tips for great digestive health all through your life. However, sometimes eating fried food or overeating can cause digestive issues like gas and acidity. Try Pept-O-Tone Capsules – ayurvedic medicine by Pankajakasthuri. The anti-ulcerant effects of the tablets can help the stomach neutralise the digestive acids. The ideal dosage is one capsule three times a day or as directed by the physician. You can also try digestive juices like this one.