Even though we all wish we had a perfect health and an excellent shape, we sometimes end up feeling a little under the weather, as we can’t have perfect habits all the time. We all have our weaknesses. My main one: I love to eat and I sometimes go a tad overboard when I’m out with friends and have a lot to choose from. Right after, I experience the negative effects, as in digestion woes and low energy levels.
I try not to get mad at myself when I fall off the wagon, because for the most part, my diet is quite balanced, which in turns helps my digestion. If you’re looking to improve your eating habits and give your tummy a helping hand (as well as avoid some discomforts), here are a few tips to help you get there.
Top 5 habits to adopt for your digestion
- Boost your fibre intake
It’s no longer a secret—fibre helps digestion by promoting bowel regularity. There’s nothing easier than upping your daily fibre intake—have a bowl of high-fibre cereal in the morning, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables, a yogurt with probiotics and fibre as snacks, and that’s it!
- Drink lots of water
Fibre and water are essential for intestinal transit. Not drinking enough water while eating enough fibre could cause aches and bloating. So fill up your water bottle two, three or four times (or more) a day and do your body good!
- Chew
Did you know that chewing is the first step to digestion? With it, you break up the food you’re eating into little pieces and kick off the digestion of certain nutrients. By taking the time to carefully chew your food, you eat slower and give your brain the time it needs to receive satiety signals (about 20 minutes), which can help you avoid overeating.
- Cut down on fat
Our body takes longer to digest high-fat foods. Small, low-fat meals are ideal for quick digestion. If you opt for higher fat options from time to time, choose unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) and try to limit foods with saturated and artificial trans fats.
- Relax
Stress has a negative impact on digestion. Take the time to relax when your body needs it. A quick five-minute break is well worth the benefits to your digestive health, no?
Pingback: The Secret Life of Saliva | Feel Good Everyday | Danone Canada | Blog