When it comes to your digestive health many people just take it for granted. They think they can eat or drink whatever they want and their stomach can take it. Often times, however, you will run into a snag. I certainly have. I have had a lot of trouble personally with digestive issues. When you have a problem with your digestive tract it can become a huge issue quickly. From frequent bathroom visits to embarrassing gas issues and beyond, digestive problems are hard to live with. So why should you? Here are five things I found that worked to keep my digestion in tip top shape:
- Check for allergies – The first thing you should do is check and see if there is an underlying medical problem. From allergies to milk or gluten to illnesses like Crohn’s disease, there are many things that can upset the balance in your digestive tract. If your doctor finds an issue you can treat it with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. However if all the tests come back clear, like mine did, then you know you need to make some changes to your overall diet.
- Drink more water – No matter what issue you are having with your digestion drinking more water will help. From constipation to acid reflux, water helps your body to process the food and drink into something useful. Water also helps to keep your bowels moving and your urine clear. It is easy to get in the habit of drinking water once you start; you will find that you actually crave it!
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and smoking – While you are drinking more water try to replace things like caffeine loaded coffee or soda, alcohol, and smoking. Caffeine can cause spasms in your digestive tract and also is known to worsen acid reflux. As it is a diuretic it can cause you to lose the water your body needs to digest well. Although one glass of wine is thought to settle the stomach, overindulgence can cause a host of issues. Smoking is also very bad for your digestion and stimulates your bowels artificially causing you to have more pain and cramping and get less nutrition from your food.
- Take a probiotic – Antibiotics often kill off the good bacteria that our bowels need for digestion. To replace them try taking a probiotic supplement. These can be found in grocery stores and supermarkets everywhere. Or you can also enjoy yogurt to get the same bacteria. Digestive enzymes, like Beano, can also help with problem foods and get your body back on track naturally.
- Get moving – Last but not least you should increase your activity level. Exercise is a great way to keep your bowels moving and your digestive tract on track. Light exercise before or after meals help your body to digest the food you eat. Whatever you do try not to lie down for at least an hour after eating to give your body a chance to digest. I like to walk for twenty minutes before I eat and then I make sure to keep standing or sitting for at least an hour after meals.
These are just a few of the ways you can help your digestive tract to stay strong and healthy. No more gas, bloating or discomfort. Take control of your digestive health and get your system back on track. It worked for me!
Rachael Cherry is a wife, mother, and writer who is passionate about helping connect families in need with high quality caregivers. She has taken that passion and put it to work through NannyPro, a respected online nanny referral service. Learn more by visiting @NannyPro on Twitter.
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