27/04/2026
Think your gut might be causing you some discomfort? Try these easy tips.
Chew Properly: This often-overlooked aspect of digestion triggers saliva secretion and releases essential enzymes. Proper chewing aids in breaking down the food we consume, enhancing absorption. If you’re not chewing thoroughly or enough, this crucial process may not occur effectively. Aim for 20 chews per mouthful.
Manage Stress: There’s a well-documented relationship between stress and gut health. When we’re stressed or in ‘fight or flight’ mode, our body directs energy away from digestion towards essential processes and perceived threats. This can result in bloating, sluggish digestion, incomplete bowel movements, and other digestive issues. Managing stress allows us to shift into the parasympathetic mode, also known as the ‘rest and digest’ state.
Avoid Trigger Foods: If you’re aware of foods that trigger digestive issues, steer clear of them. When aiming to support gut health and recovery, it’s best to avoid irritants that can prolong the healing process, such as inflammatory foods. This may include alcohol, coffee, fried foods, and refined sugar during the healing stages.
Choose Simple Foods: Sometimes, simplicity is key, especially when your gut isn’t feeling its best. Focus on incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and slow-cooked meals into your diet to promote easier digestion. If tolerable, consider adding bone broth to your diet, as it contains amino acids that can help ‘seal’ the gut lining.
Treat the Cause: Instead of guessing, it’s best to consult with a trusted healthcare practitioner and consider further testing if necessary. Diagnostic tests can provide insights into inflammation, parasites, viruses, fungal overgrowth, or the presence of pathogenic bacteria. With this information, a targeted treatment plan can be developed to address the root cause of your digestive issues.
