If you have ever had to deal with painful or uncomfortable digestive health issues, then you know just how disruptive they can be to your daily life. Spending more time than you might wish in the bathroom, missing events and activities, and having to avoid foods you love are just some of the sacrifices you have to make. But your digestive health is not completely out of your control, there is a lot you can do to help. Here are the three things that you can and should do for better digestive health right away.
Stay Hydrated
The first important step that you can take for better digestive health is to stay hydrated. While you probably first think about food when you are trying to improve digestive health, starting by thinking about your hydration may have some benefits. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps your body deal with digestion more effectively. It can help prevent constipation, decrease the likelihood of acid reflux, and even prevent stomach ulcers. If you suffer from frequent digestive health issues, then starting by drinking enough water during the day could be a good start for you.
Eat Key Nutrients
Another crucial step to take for better digestive health is to eat key nutrients in your diet. If your digestive health issues don’t subside with drinking more water, it may be because you aren’t getting the proper nutrition your gut needs. A high-fiber diet can help you avoid digestive problems. Fiber is a critical type of carbohydrate that our bodies cannot break down themselves. But these fibers serve two important functions, feeding your healthy gut bacteria which aids in breaking down food, and in providing bulk for your stool making it easier to go to the bathroom. Make sure you are eating enough fiber in your diet.
See a Doctor
The final thing that you can do for better digestive health is to visit a doctor about your issues. If neither of these solutions works for you, you may be struggling with a more serious medical issue. Whether struggling with IBS, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, or any other issue that affects GI health, a doctor’s opinion is going to be necessary. Schedule a visit with your doctor to discuss any digestive health issues that have lasted longer than a week or two and have not improved with at-home remedies.
Your gut health is critical for your general well-being and ability to enjoy your life. Fortunately, you have a lot of control over your gut health. If you can do these three things, you can solve your digestive health issues once and for all.
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