8 healing foods to aid digestion and calm your gut
Gut health is central to the body's overall well-being; it dictates digestion, immunity, mental clarity, and mood.
An unhealthy gut may result in several problems, from constipation and bloating to acid reflux and inflammation.
The good news is that nature has several foods that can help your digestive system function normally and keep your gut microbiome healthy.
The following are some of the best gut-friendly foods and why they work in restoring balance to your digestive system.
Yogurt: A natural probiotic
One of the simplest sources of probiotics is yogurt—live cultures that promote healthy gut bacteria to thrive. Consume yogurt on a regular basis in order to maintain digestion; it also improves lactose digestion as well as treats constipation.
Consume plain and unsweetened yogurt to avoid extra sugar, which destroys gut bacteria.
Kiwi: A comforting solution for constipation
Abundant in actinidin enzymes and fibers, kiwi is an excellent herbal treatment for constipation. Studies have shown that two kiwis a day can improve the frequency and quality of stools in IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) patients. Its anti-inflammatory properties and water content also make it a gentle fruit for irritable stomachs.
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Ginger: Anti-Inflammatory agent for bloating
Ginger has been used for centuries to relieve nausea, bloating, and indigestion. It is a digestive enzyme stimulant, gastric motility stimulant, and also soothes the intestinal tract. Drinking ginger tea after meals reduces fullness and prevents bloat due to slow digestion.
Turmeric: Relieves gut inflammation
Curcumin, the turmeric's active ingredient, is highly anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Curcumin is utilized to soothe inflammation in the gut, particularly in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Turmeric also stimulates the release of bile, which aids in fat digestion and nutrient absorption.
Banana: Aids digestion and acid reflux
Bananas are a highly digestible fruit with a dual advantage: their fiber regularizes bowels, and their natural antacid effect counteracts stomach acid, so they are beneficial to relieve acid reflux. Fruits that are high in pectin, like bananas, also firm loose stools in diarrhea attacks.
Papaya: Enzyme-Rich Fruit
Papaya contains papain, a proteolytic enzyme that aids in protein digestion and eases digestive upset.
It is especially useful after consuming high-protein foods and soothes bloating and indigestion. Its fiber and water content also enhance smooth bowel movement.
Digestive Enzymes: Assisting in nutrient absorption
Where the body is not effectively capable of making enough digestive enzymes, consuming natural enzyme-rich foods like pineapple (bromelain), papaya (papain), and fermented foods can enhance nutrient absorption and ease digestive stress.
Fermented food (Idli, Kanji and dosa)
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Regular consumption of naturally fermented foods can improve digestion, reduce bloating, and strengthen the immune system
A healthy gut starts with a healthy body. Incorporating gut-friendly foods like yogurt, kiwi, ginger, turmeric, banana, and papaya into your daily diet assists you in naturally balancing common digestive issues and sustaining long-term gut health.
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