The Best Foods for Maintaining a Healthy Digestive System

Digestion is one of the body’s most important processes. The digestive tract is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients. These nutrients are used for energy, growth, and cell repair. The body’s immune system is directly related to the digestive system. A healthy digestive system is vital to a person’s overall mental and physical health. It is rightly said that you are what you eat. Most of the body’s functions depend on the food you eat and good digestion.

Problems with your digestive system can lead to several other health issues, like a weakened immune system, gas, acidity, weakness, fatigue, and a lack of energy. It is normal to experience occasional, minor digestive issues like gas, constipation, and diarrhea. However, when these conditions occur frequently and for prolonged periods, it may be due to a poor digestive system. The best part about your digestive system is that you can strengthen it by incorporating a few changes into your diet and lifestyle. Eating the right kinds of food is very important for your digestion. In particular, you should add fiber and vitamins for digestive health.

The following are the best foods for maintaining a healthy digestive system:

1. Apples

Worldwide, apples are one of the most commonly consumed fruits. They are a great source of energy and a rich source of a soluble fiber known as pectin. Pectin helps to increase stool bulk, which helps relieve diarrhea. It also keeps food moving through your digestive tract, which helps to end constipation. Apples are also known to reduce the risk of intestinal infections and inflammation in the colon.

2. Fennel

 Fennel is a plant with a pale bulb and long, green stalks. It is commonly used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, and its seeds are widely used as a breath freshener. Fennel has a high fiber content, which helps prevent constipation and keep your digestive tract functioning well. It also contains an antispasmodic agent, which helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract. This reduces the frequency of symptoms like bloating, cramping, and flatulence.

3. Kefir

Kefir is a cultured dairy product. It is prepared by adding kefir grains to milk. Kefir is known to have a number of benefits for digestive health. Just like the probiotics in yogurt, kefir helps you digest lactose, reducing some of the effects of lactose intolerance, like bloating, gas, and cramps. Eating kefir helps increase the good bacteria and reduce the harmful bacteria in the gut. Kefir also decreases inflammation in the gut, further enhancing digestive health.

4. Yogurt

Yogurt is prepared by fermenting milk with bacteria cultures that produce lactic acid. Yogurt contains good bacteria known as probiotics, which also occur naturally in the digestive tract. Probiotics help to improve digestion and keep your gut healthy. Increasing your intake of probiotics through foods like yogurt helps in proper digestion. Probiotics help you fight digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Probiotics also improve the digestion of lactose and milk sugars.

5. Papaya

Papaya is a luscious tropical fruit that is not just sweet and tasty. It contains a digestive enzyme called papain. Papain helps break down protein fibers, thereby assisting the digestion process. Papain also helps to cure the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as constipation and bloating. It is the main enzyme used in supplements and vitamins for digestion.

6. Chia seeds

Chia seeds are one of the best sources of fiber. The high fiber content in chia seeds causes them to form a gelatinous substance in the stomach when consumed. They promote the growth of probiotics in the gut, contributing to healthy digestion. The high fiber content also promotes bowel regularity and healthy stools. Simply add whole or ground chia seeds to smoothies or juices, or mix it with yogurt or oatmeal.

7. Beetroots

Beetroots, also known as beets, are another great source of fiber. The nutrients and fiber in beetroots help improve digestion by adding bulk to the stool and feeding the healthy bacteria in your gut.

8. Whole grains

Whole grains are the kind that retains 100% of the kernel. They include bran, germ, and endosperm. Whole grains are packed with fiber, which is very important for digestive health. A few popular whole grains are oats, quinoa, farro, and wheat. The fiber in whole grains adds bulk to the stool. It also acts as a probiotic, which feeds the healthy bacteria in your gut.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.