Three ways to improve digestion
Try to eat without distraction
When we eat in front of the television, while working, reading, flicking through our smartphones or while on the run, we’re distracting our body from preparing for the food it’s about to receive. This includes affecting saliva and stomach acid production, both of which help to break down our food ready for our gut bacteria. Try your best to plan proper meal breaks into your day.
Avoid drinking with food
Water and other liquids have the potential to dilute our stomach acid which in turn affects our body’s ability to break down our food. We need all of the digestive power we can muster to get the maximum nourishment out of our food and the best out of us. In an ideal world, you wouldn’t drink anything for 30 minutes either side of eating. Many people use their meals as a reminder to drink water and it can be a challenging habit to break, but it’s worthwhile for all aspects of our health!
Chew your food well
Remember that our oesophagus is not lined with teeth! Many of us are in such a hurry with our meals, or so excited by the flavour of our food, that we might be lucky to chew each mouthful four times. This alone can be the basis of digestive problems such as bloating. Chewing signals to our brain that it needs to communicate to our stomach to let it know that food is on its way. You want your food to be mush before you swallow it.
Nutrients are essential for life, and the way you are eating – let alone the foods you might be choosing – may be robbing you of some of the goodness your food provides, which can have an impact on every body system, including your energy. Give yourself the best opportunity to absorb as much goodness out of your food as possible by applying the tips above. It may add energy to your years, and years to your life.
Dr Libby is a nutritional biochemist, best-selling author and speaker. The advice contained in this column is not intended to be a substitute for direct, personalised advice from a health professional. See drlibby.com