10 Everyday Habits for Your Digestive Happiness

We all want to feel our best, and great health starts with a happy digestive system! No matter what your eating style is, there are simple habits you can incorporate for optimal digestion.

1. Slow down when you eat. Your brain needs time to catch up with your stomach. Aim to spend 20 minutes at the table per meal, taking breaks to assess how full you are.

2. Chew your food thoroughly. Chewing is the first step in breaking down your food, making your digestive system's job easier. Aim for each bite to be almost liquid before you swallow.

3. Move your body daily for 10+ minutes. Exercise has a multitude of benefits, including supporting healthy digestion. It helps you manage stress and promotes regularity.

4. Get enough sleep — at least 7 hours a night. Your body uses sleep for essential repair and renewal processes. Adequate sleep helps manage everyday stress and supports digestive health.

5. Fill up on fiber (found in plant-based and functional foods). Fiber is your digestive system's best friend! It keeps you feeling full and promotes regularity. Women need around 25 grams daily, and men need 38 grams. Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

6. Manage everyday stress. Your gut and brain are in constant communication. Stress management techniques like meditation, exercise, or journaling directly benefit your digestion.

7. Pay attention to when and how you go to the bathroom. "Normal" digestion varies, but track your bathroom habits. Are you going less than three times weekly, or several times a day? This can point to potential sensitivities.

8. Notice which foods give you trouble.
There's no single perfect diet. Start tracking when you feel discomfort (gas, bloating, etc.) and see if there's a pattern with certain foods.

9. Know your prebiotics from your probiotics. Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut, while probiotics are the good bacteria themselves. Both are crucial for digestive health.

10. Get to know digestive enzymes. Your body produces digestive enzymes to break down food. Specialized enzyme supplements can help with problem foods – lactose, gluten, beans, you name it!

Listen to your body and find what works for you. These small changes can make a big difference in your digestive well-being!