It’s
hard to be happy when your digestive system isn’t functioning properly. From
bloating to pain to problems in the bathroom, digestive issues compound when we
don’t eat healthfully and take care of our bodies. If you are struggling with
your digestion, check out these gut health solutions.
1. Increase Probiotic Intake
Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria and
yeast) that can stay alive through your stomach to enter your colon during
digestion. There, they help maintain a healthy microbiome that aids digestion
and nutrient absorption. Some studies also show that they can boost our bodies’
immune responses and help with skin health, oral health, allergies, and vaginal
and urinary health. Though you can take supplements, you can also find healthy
probiotics in yogurt, tempeh, and fermented foods.
2. Eat more Prebiotic Foods
Pre-biotic foods are generally fibrous foods that can
withstand digestion in the stomach to be digested in the colon. They are a food
source for your gut’s microorganisms. Pre-biotics help regulate bowel
movements, improve communication between your body and brain, and improve bone
density, immune system, and inflammatory response. Pre-biotic rich foods
include resistant starches, inulin, and pectin. Common pre-biotic foods include
boiled and chilled potatoes, green beans, asparagus, soybeans, sweet potatoes,
fruits, and berries. Aronia berries are excellent pre-biotic and fiber-rich
foods you can add to any meal.
3. Exercise and Manage Stress
When we are stressed, our bodies produce excess cortisol,
which can cause inflammation, intestinal permeability, and nutrient
malabsorption. Taking steps to actively decrease your stress, such as
exercising regularly, will help improve your digestion. Studies have also shown
that exercise increases the presence of good gut bacteria, separately from what
we eat. Taking the time to rejuvenate through meditation, breathing, and
movement can significantly improve your gut health.
4. Hydrate
Water helps our digestive systems do their jobs. Proper hydration
allows for easier digestion, toxin removal, and bowel movements. When the food
we eat moves through the digestive tract efficiently, we feel better.
5. Eat Slowly
We begin the digestive process with our saliva when we chew. Taking the
time to pulverize your bites will also help you feel satiated sooner so you
lower your risk of feeling overfull.
6. Prioritize Sleep
You know that your body repairs itself while you sleep. Well, it also
repairs the digestive tract and grows the good bacteria that help our gut then
as well. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and getting 7-8 hours of sleep
is good for your digestion as well as your mood.
7. Eat Foods Rich in Polyphenols
Polyphenols not only reduce inflammation in the
body, but they also resist digestion in the stomach, so some of them are
digested in the colon instead. Some polyphenols support the lining of the
intestine, so they support the immune system and intestinal integrity. Aronia
berries are high in polyphenols that not only support your gut health but
support the health of your whole body.
Taking time for yourself to relax and
eat a wide variety of foods is the easiest way to support your gut health. Try
out all of Superberries Aronia berry products to see which fits best into your
daily routine. Your body will thank you.
