Top 5 Foods For Improving Your Digestive Health

Digestive health plays a vital role in maintaining your overall well being. Your digestive tract is responsible for eliminating wastes out of the system and absorbing the required nutrients. If your digestive system isn't sufficiently healthy, it might result in numerous health problems.

With our changed lifestyle and unhealthy food habits, problems like bloating, diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain, and constipation have become a common phenomenon. Moreover, severe conditions like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, and heartburn are also becoming more common.

Thus, it's pivotal to be mindful about your food intake to prevent you from such severe problems. We bring you some of the most healthy Asian food items which are readily available and will enhance your digestive health.

●      Yogurt

Yogurt is prepared by fermenting the milk. Subsequently, lactic acid is produced which gives yogurt its distinguished texture and taste. It has been consumed by mankind for centuries. It is loaded with nutrients and has been found very effective in maintaining your digestive health.

Yogurt is full of protein, calcium, Vitamin B, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients essentially take care of your bone health, protect you against heart diseases and regulate blood pressure and metabolism. Yogurt also contains probiotics which improve your digestive system by reducing the symptoms for gastrointestinal disorders.

●      Fennel

Fennel is a plant with long green or white stalks and crunchy pale bulb, used to enhance flavor in food. It is highly packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, manganese, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients are great for your immunity system, metabolism, bone development, and enzyme activation.

Fennel also possesses a decent dose of antioxidants. It significantly reduces the risk of heart diseases, cancer, obesity, and neurological diseases. Fennel seeds not only add taste to your diet but also help curb your appetite. It is also suggested to aid digestion by relaxing the gastrointestinal muscles and reduce gas, stomach cramps, and bloating.

●      Papaya

Papaya was once referred to as the fruit of the angels by an Italian voyager. This fruit is highly loaded with Vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants and offers a wide range of benefits. Along with boosting your immune health and providing protection against high cholesterol, Papaya is also a wonder food for weight loss.

Eating one papaya a day can make up for your occasional junk food consumption. This luscious fruit contains an enzyme named papain which helps in digestion. By breaking down the protein fibers, it aids in the metabolism of protein. It is majorly used as an ingredient in digestive supplements owing to its gastrointestinal capacities. 

●      Peppermint

Peppermint is an aromatic herb from the mint family which is a cross between watermint and spearmint. It's known for its distinguished taste and abundant health benefits. With its fresh, soothing fragrance and cooling properties, peppermint is a favorite in everyone’s kitchen. It is often used for garnishing juices and snacks.

Studies have suggested that peppermint prevents muscles from contracting, thus relieving spasms in your gut. Peppermint oil and tea also aid digestion and provide relief from gas, bloating, and indigestion. It can prove significantly effective in treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as well.

●      Whole grains

Whole grain is classified as the grain containing 100% of the kernel including germ, bran, and endosperm. Grains like quinoa, oats, farro and other products made from whole wheat can be put under this category.

Whole grains are rich sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins, plant-based protein and a variety of phytochemicals beneficial for your health. It protects you against bad cholesterol, high blood sugar levels and reduces cancer risk. The fiber content of whole grains helps in keeping the bowel movements regular. It also prevents diverticulosis which causes conditions like constipation, diarrhea, inflammation, and pain.