7 Simple Ways to Improve Your Digestion
1. Add peppermint essential oil to the water
You need to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day in order to keep your body hydrated enough. In some of these glasses (preferably before meals) add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil. Not only will your water have a fresh taste and smell, but you will no longer feel bloated after eating.
2. Avoid foods that can stimulate bloating
Foods as soy, wheat, corn, dairy and eggs can cause allergies because of the way they have been cultivated or because they are genetically modified (GMO). The consumption of these foods, which are often difficult to digest, can exacerbate other diseases and increase physical discomfort. If you can’t say “goodbye” to these foods, try to at least get GMO-free organic products.
3. Increase hydrochloric acid levels
Eating highly processed foods, large amounts of meat and sugar, and living under stress damage the gastrointestinal tract. These foods are low in hydrochloric acid, which is needed to break down food. When hydrochloric acid levels are low, you can experience all kinds of problems with the digestive system.
To increase the levels of HCL in the stomach in the long term, you can drink celery juice on an empty stomach every morning. You can use Himalayan salt, drink a spoonful of apple cider vinegar diluted with water after waking up as well.
4. Add some enzymes
Taking enzyme tablets after consultation with your doctor can help improve digestion, help the body absorb more nutrients and reduce unpleasant symptoms of the gastrointestinal tract such as bloating and gas. You can focus on raw foods as well.
5. Anti-stress program
Prolonged stress leads to overproduction of cortisol. Increased levels of cortisol for long period of time can adversely affect the body. When you are in a stressful situation, a physiological changes can occur – including indigestion, spontaneous diarrhea and constipation. Reading good books, walking in nature, taking a hot bath, meeting loved ones, watching comedies, meditating can help you cope with the stress.
6. Consider probiotic supplements
Gastrointestinal microorganisms are essential for digestion, but sometimes (mainly due to the use of antibiotics) they disappear. This can allow “bad bacteria” to thrive in the gut (such as candida). Overgrowth of this bacterium can upset digestive balance. Therefore, the addition of “good bacteria” is strongly recommended.
7. Include herbs in your diet to benefit gut health
Mother Nature offers a number of natural remedies to soothe digestive problems. Organic herbs can be added to soups, desserts, baked goods, tea and even chewed (such as ginger). Some of the best herbs to treat the gut are: ginger, turmeric (curcuma), dill, cumin, garlic, cinnamon, rosemary, mint, allspice.