Did you get your 25g+ of fiber today?
Some foods provide a natural source of important enzymes. Others speed up the movement of food from your stomach to your small intestine. But all deliver big perks to your digestive system in one way or another.
The digestive tract helps break down the foods you eat into smaller molecules of nutrients so they can be absorbed into the blood and carried to cells throughout your body, providing your body with the fuel it needs to function. If your digestive track is not running at its finest, bloating, distention, and feeling uncomfortable will occur.
To maintain good health and a fine-tuned digestive system, it’s important to eat a diet that is both high in nutrition (AKA eating-clean) and that is easily digested. These types of foods will help you achieve both.
High-Fiber Foods. Did you get your 25g+ of fiber today? Foods high in fiber, such as whole-grain products, fruits, vegetables, beans, and lentils, aid digestion by adding bulk to your body’s waste products. Because fiber makes you feel full faster, including adequate amounts in your diet can also help you lose weight. Add a ½ cup of black beans to 2 tablespoons salsa and spread on top of a warm chicken breast or use as dip for your blue corn chips!
Non-Acidic Foods. Foods high in acid, including citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes and any foods made from tomatoes such as tomato sauce and tomato juice, can trigger heartburn. Instead, choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, including raspberries, watermelon, cucumbers, sweet potatoes and yams.
Ginger. A study published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology states that, ‘ginger aids in the stimulation of digestion by speeding up the movement of food from the stomach to the upper small intestine.’ Other spices such as caraway, cumin and fennel when added to foods also aid digestion and reduce the production of gas. Make a ginger and garlic paste and smear it on a warm chicken breast. Sip on warm ginger green tea.
We cannot forget the body’s best friend…water! Drinking plenty of water is also essential to keeping your digestive system working properly. According to the Mayo Clinic, “drinking water during or after a meal improves digestion by helping break down the food in your stomach and keeping your digestive system on track.” Maintaining a healthy weight and getting plenty of exercise each day are also crucial to good digestion. Ever wonder why you do not feel bloated after exercise or even feel ‘relieved’ after you take a walk or exercise…Eat quality foods, get 25g+ fiber per day, and take a walk…your digestive system will be just fine:)
J~
