We often underestimate a healthy digestive system until and unless it all goes wrong. In a way we are what we eat. A tummy ache or constipation due to indigestion largely determines if we are happy and healthy or nauseated and sick. So it’s only apt that we watch what goes in to our mouths with the objective that we consume foods that aid digestion. The digestive process is an intricate one that involves breaking down foods that we consume to extract nutrients from them and expel the unwanted waste. The digestive system may be weakened by a number of factors resulting in acid reflux, constipation, gas and other such ailments. Fortunately we are blessed to have many foods that help in rebuilding a strong digestive system. Read further to know more.
Best Foods For Good Digestion:
1. Yogurt:
Our digestive tract is populated with good bacteria that breaks down food and helps in digestion. In the same yogurt is rich in probiotics and live cultures that add to the population of good bacteria in our digestive tracts that aid digestion. The probiotics in yogurt are known to provide relief to those suffering from digestive ailments such as Crohn’s Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
2. Beans:
Fiber is integral to keep the digestive system up and running and is known to facilitate smooth bowel functions. Beans are the perfect way to get your daily dose of fibers. Unlike other vegetables that are also rich in fibers, beans are less likely to result in flatulence.
3. Fish Oil:
Whilst we all know about all the benefits of fish oil and Omega 3 fatty acids, experts are just discovering how useful these are for digestion. Consuming a piece or two of fish every day may not have the required dose of fish oils to benefit digestion however fish oil supplements can really help. According to recent research it’s the lack of adequate consumption fish oils that may be one of the reasons behind Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS.
4. Ginger:
As per a published study in the European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatalogy, ginger aids digestion by quickening the process through which food from the stomach reaches the small intestine. While it may not be pleasant to gobble up some ginger by itself, one can perhaps indulge in some healthy ginger tea or ginger flavored candies.
5. Peppermint:
Peppermint is widely known to aid digestion and even provide relief in cases of IBS. One can enjoy a few drops of peppermint oil in their tea or even take it in supplementary form. Research has proven that a daily dose of peppermint supplements for 4 weeks can provide relief in extreme cases of IBS by soothing the bowels and promoting smooth bowel movements.
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6. Water:
While water cannot be counted as solid food, it just had to be included here as water happens to be the number one digestive aid. Drinking plenty of water on a daily basis can facilitate bowel movements, keep the body hydrated and keep the digestive system in top form.
7. Apples:
Known to be rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, minerals, foliate, potassium and phosphorous, apples are a treasure trove of health benefits. Apples are known to aid digestion by preventing constipation. The pectin present in apples is also highly conducive to live cultures and good bacteria in the intestinal tract that aid digestion.
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8. Bananas:
Bananas have long been a home cure for diarrhea. The potassium and electrolytes present in bananas are known to make up for the loss of fluids and energy when passing constant stools. Bananas are also high on fibers that are integral for digestion.
9. Sweet Potato:
Loaded with fibers, complex carbohydrates and magnesium, sweet potatoes are a godsend when it comes to digestion.
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