It’s fair to say that we have all suffered from gut problems at some point in our lives whether it be cramping, bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. Digestive health problems are on the rise, in fact two thirds of Australians are suffering from some sort of gastrointestinal illness. It’s important to nourish your gut with simple nutritional foods as well as healthy eating habits (smaller portions, more frequently). Here are some ideas of ways to maintain a healthy gut:
- Drink plenty of water: the gut needs help flushing out toxins and assisting with elimination of waste products.
- Probiotics: known as the ‘good’ bacteria, probiotics are live microorganisms that assist in improving intestinal microbial balance. If possible, buy a good quality probiotic from your healthcare practitioner so that you are receiving many strains of bacterium. Some yoghurts now contain strains of bacteria to heal the gut.
- Foods: eat foods high in fiber (plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes). Avoid animal fats, carbonated beverages, caffeine, spicy food, and sugar.
- Chew your food: Slow down when eating and don’t over eat!
- Breath: Practice deep breathing instead of shallow breathing that most of us are guilty of. Shallow breathing reduces the oxygen available for proper bowel function.
- Slippery Elm: this mucilaginous herb, Ulmus rubra, has an affinity with the gastrointestinal tract by soothing the mucous membrane of the bowels, stomach and urinary tract. It’s a nourishing herb that may help with diarrhoea, ulcerative colitis, gastritis, diverticulitis, peptic ulcer and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
A comprehensive Detox is the perfect way to alleviate bloating, gas, fatigue and constipation. So remember, eat simply, eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetable, whole grains, drink plenty of water, chew slowly and be good to your gut.
