Indigestion is a common problem that affects most people. It usually presents itself as pain or discomfort in the abdomen or stomach area. Here are simple ways to help your body and aid in digestion.
1. Drink plenty of water
Taking water at least 30 minutes before meals and one hour after meals is very useful. Water helps in breaking down food into smaller particles which can be easily digested and absorbed, according to Maria Adams, RD, MPH, a nutrition consultant in Marblehead, Massachusetts.
2. Eat slowly and in a regular pattern
This will also aid smooth digestion. The process starts in the mouth and therefore slow eating allows for better chewing and absorption as food transit down the gut.
3. Consumption of pro-biotics, fibre and fermented food
Making these part of your meals will play an important role in digestion. Fibre can be found in foods such as carrots, fruits like bananas, beans among others.
"A high-fiber diet helps to keep food moving through your digestive tract, making you less likely to get constipated," Adams says. She also adds that probiotic help keep the body healthy by combating the effects of a poor diet, antibiotics, and stress.
4.Exercise
You will need to have regular body exercises. Adams recommends that; "regular exercise helps keep foods moving through your digestive system, reducing constipation."
Cardiovascular exercise such as walking and running helps in strengthening musculature of the abdomen, this improves the abdominal muscle power that helps in digestion. Exercise also relieves stress, a stress-free body is useful in aiding digestion.
5. Identifying your food allergies and intolerance
Having to not foods that do not go well with your body is helpful. A most common type of intolerance is lactose intolerance where the body cannot digest the sugar found in milk leading to indigestion. Identifying such conditions and avoid such kind of foods for affected individuals is very important.