It’s the ultimate nightmare. The stomach ache that just won’t go away or gut wrenching cramps that take you by surprise. Not to mention the sudden urge to use the facilities, which always has a habit of sneaking up during the world’s most in-opportune moments. From constipation to the opposite problem, digestive issues are no fun whatsoever. Did you know that you have the ability to aid in keeping your digestion on track with some simple super foods? By augmenting your diet just a bit, you can include some foods that help with digestion. Keep reading for a look at how to keep everything in tip top shape or simply “regular”.
- Sauerkraut is the name of the game – or anything fermented for that matter. Fermented foods like kefir, miso and kimchi are all items that should make the list. If you haven’t brought yogurt into the mix, you’re missing a real opportunity to give your digestive tract the healthy bacteria that helps everything move along smoothly.
- Beans and other high fiber foods. While upping your bean intake may seem counterproductive to digestive health (beans get a bad rap!), they’re loaded with fiber which the digestive system craves. Other high-fiber foods worth adding to your diet – fruits and veggies like artichokes and berries and don’t forget the whole grains.
- Ginger. Going back to ancient times, ginger is a remedy for stomach troubles that has been around for years. Ginger actually helps speed up the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine, getting the digestive process on the move. If straight ginger is too potent for you, ginger tea, supplements and candies will all do the trick.
- Probiotics. Sounds complicated, right? No worries probiotics are live cultures and can be found in yogurt, sourdough bread and other fermented foods. Not sure you’re getting enough probiotics? Try adding a supplement to your diet.
- Peppermint. Peppermint has been known to help tummy aches for centuries, and adding a little peppermint oil to tea and other recipes can definitely give you some relief. Peppermint helps the bowels relax, making cramping and other discomfort subside.
- Fish Oil. Fish oil has received lots of props for its anti-inflammatory properties when it comes to matters of the heart, but its anti-inflammatory ability can also work magic on your digestive tract. Adding some mackerel, tuna and salmon into your diet will get you well on your way to better digestion.
- Water. Staying hydrated does so many wonderful things for your body, including keeping your digestion on track.
Do you ever have problems with digestion? How do you make sure everything stays regular?
