DIGESTIVE HEALTH
The digestive system consists of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine. The liver, pancreas and gallbladder are also part of the digestive system. Your digestion is important because your body needs nutrients from food and drink to work properly and stay healthy.
Sometimes one or more parts of the digestive system don’t work properly. Some common digestive system problems include: acid reflux, gallstones, hemorrhoids, gas, flatulence, constipation.
Some of the following steps may help you keep your digestive system healthy: eat more fruits and vegetables, eat whole-grain breads and pastas, avoid processed meats, exercise regularly, and use probiotics from time to time.
MICROBIOTA & PROBIOTICS
Microbiota are the microflora of the gut. The gut microbiota of each individual is unique. These are important because they contribute to how a person fights disease, digests food, and even affects their mood and psychological processes.
The human body contains trillions of microbes, or bacteria. These include harmful bacteria that can cause local infections of the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Reinforcing your diet with prebiotics, probiotics, and other supplements might help to keep your digestive system healthy.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. You can find probiotics in food supplements and some foods, like yogurt. Probiotics help balance your “good” and “bad” bacteria.
ENZYMES AND DIGESTION
Enzymes are produced naturally in the body and are required for proper digestive system function and a healthy body. They work with other chemicals in the body, such as stomach acid and bile, to help break down food into molecules for a wide range of bodily functions.
A lack of digestive enzymes can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, for example, bloating, excessive gas and diarrhea.
Digestive enzymes are mostly produced in the pancreas, stomach, and small intestine. Enzymes can be found in certain foods such as avocados, bananas, ginger, honey, kefir, kiwi, mangos, papayas, pineapples. They are also produced as food supplements for certain digestive conditions.
DIGESTION: FIBERS
Fibers play an important role in our digestive health. Fibers are non-digestible carbohydrates. They are components of plant foods, fruits, vegetables, dried beans and peas, lentils, nuts and seeds. Some fibers are prebiotics.
Foods containing fiber may help maintain a healthy weight and lower the risks for diabetes or heart disease. High fiber diets may also normalize bowel movements, helping maintain bowel health and lower cholesterol levels.
INDIGESTION PROBLEMS
Indigestion, also called as an upset stomach, is a discomfort in your upper abdomen. People who consume too much alcohol, use certain drugs that irritate the stomach, or experience emotional problems, such as anxiety or depression, may be at risk for Indigestion.
Some actions that prevent indigestion include eating small portions at meals; eating slowly; and reducing caffeine consumption. Quitting smoking and reducing your alcohol consumption may all help reducing indigestion.
Stress is an important trigger of indigestion: learning to diagnose and manage your stress levels is vital for better digestion and better wellness overall.
