Originally published September 6 2010
Six Simple Tips: Improve Digestion Naturally
by Elizabeth Walling
(NaturalNews) Food is the foundation of good health. And digestion is the foundational tool for using food to achieve good health. Without proper digestion, our bodies may never receive the nutrients we work so hard to include in our diets. Poor digestive function can cause nutrient deficiencies and numerous health problems like fatigue, emotional instability, skin disorders and more.
Improving digestive function could very well be one of the most important steps you take in improving your health, and fortunately it can also be one of the easiest if you follow the right protocol. Here are some of the most simple ways you can make big improvements in your digestive health:
1. Drink Your Water... But Not During Meals
The digestive system needs to be well hydrated like the rest of the body, but downing glasses of water near mealtime will impair digestive strength and may cause upsets. Water is best sipped lightly during a meal. Otherwise you should get your water in at least 15-30 minutes before a meal and preferably at least an hour after.
2. Eat Clean
This one should be obvious but is included for good measure. The body wasn't meant to digest chemical food additives, artificial sweeteners or extruded grains. Eat whole, natural foods as much as possible so your body can concentrate on assimilating the good stuff instead of eliminating the bad stuff.
3. Go Raw
It may not be necessary for every food that passes your lips to be uncooked, but including some raw foods in your diet is a great way to get natural enzymes and nutrients that might otherwise be denatured by heat. Getting at least some raw, live foods in with every meal will give your digestion a break and your body a more complete set of nutrients.
4. Get Fermented
Fermentation allows probiotics, enzymes and nutrients to flourish and multiply. Foods that have been fermented (like sauerkraut) are so potent only a few tablespoons each day will provide the body with a hefty digestive punch that can make a world of difference in gastrointestinal health.
5. Try a Little Bitterness
Bitter herbs were commonly used in traditional cultures as a digestive aid and even to treat general ailments. Herbs like dandelion, gentian and yarrow are just a few examples of bitter herbs that are usually combined in a tincture to use directly before or after meals to stimulate bile production.
6. Say No to Stress
Stress cuts off circulation to the digestive tract and can impair the body's ability to utilize the food you eat. Learn to reduce or manage the stress in your life if your digestion is poor. Before meals, take a deep breath and eat slowly, eat consciously. Try not to rush meals, shovel food down your throat or grab hurried bites between trips to the copy machine. Mealtime should be relaxing and enjoyable. Your digestion will thank you.
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About the authorElizabeth Walling is a freelance writer specializing in health and family nutrition. She is a strong believer in natural living as a way to improve health and prevent modern disease. She enjoys thinking outside of the box and challenging common myths about health and wellness. You can visit her blog to learn more:
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