Alleviate & Avoid Digestive Problems

For anyone who has ever suffered with an upset tummy, ongoing nausea, constipation or flatulence, digestive issues are not only painful and uncomfortable but also potentially embarrassing. Lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, ulcers and haemorrhoids all have long lasting effects on our overall well being, including our mental health.

And with so many food choices available to us and so much news (fake or otherwise) in the media about what we should be putting in our bodies, it is often easy to get lost in the noise and develop a misunderstanding surrounding food as fuel.

It is, at this point, a good idea to strip back everything we think we know and simply go back to basics.

An integral part of a healthy body

Digestion is the process your body uses to break down food into nutrients. The body uses the nutrients from food for energy, growth, and cellular repair. But when your digestive process goes wrong, whether from overeating or eating foods that disagree with you, you need to review the rules of good nutrition again.

The digestive system is one of the most integral and important parts of our body. Made up of most of our internal organs, it includes the mouth, oesophagus, liver, stomach, gallbladder, intestines, pancreas and rectum.

Without all these organs working in harmony, you could be at risk of serious health issues so it is imperative to ensure your lifestyle choices are keeping each and every one in working order.

Before allowing things to escalate to a visit to gastroenterologist (or even more severe, ending up in surgery) some simple lifestyle choices and changes can ensure that your digestive system is supported and kept working like a well-oiled machine.

Food for thought

Everyone’s body is an individual and what works for some, might not always work for others so it is highly recommended that you consult a GP or the Body20 Nutrition Doctors before embarking on any major dietary changes.

The general rule of thumb if you battle with your digestion is to consume more water, eat more fibre and eat smaller meals throughout the day.

Here are some foods that you can add to your diet to keep your tummy ticking properly.

Nuts & Seeds

Whilst some resources say that certain nuts have disease battling abilities, the reality is that all nuts and seeds are a great source of fibre, fat and protein (as long as they’re not covered in salt or sugar!).

Chia seeds, hemp seeds and even sunflower seeds are really easy to incorporate into your diet and are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, whilst also promoting healthy gut movement and helping with weight gain due to being high in healthy fats that help you stay fuller for longer.

Salmon

Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help with reducing inflammation in your body. If you suffer from food intolerances, bloating or other digestive disorders the omega 3 will help to reduce the inflammation in your gut, thus minimising discomfort and assisting with digestion.

Apples

Apples are rich in bacteria that are helpful for maintaining good gut health. Apples are very good sources of vitamins A and C and nutrients and minerals such as folate, potassium and phosphorus. These all help in restoring a good digestive health and ensuring a proper functioning of your intestines.

Whilst digestive issues can be uncomfortable and challenging or potentially life-threatening, simple changes to your diet can alleviate mild symptoms before they become more serious!

It boils down to listening to your body. How do you feel after a meal? If bloated and unpleasant is the answer, that’s a sure sign that you need to switch something up.

Food should leave you feeling satisfied and energised. Remember, it is your body’s fuel!

Body20 Members receive support, advice and personalised eating plans from our Nutrition Doctors as well as access to many healthy and delicious recipes that are easy to make through the FitTrac Programme that focuses on holistic health. Find out more about FitTrac here.

Book a free demo at your nearest Body20 Studio to find out more & take advantage of our FitTrac Programme.