The Importance of Good Digestion

The importance of an efficient digestive system cannot be overestimated. The symptoms of constipation can range from gastrointestinal pain and discomfort to lethargy, headaches, irritability, feelings of depression, and lack of appetite.

There are many causes of constipation which include a low-fibre diet, lack of fluids, lack of exercise, change of routine, pregnancy, menopause and menstruation, stress, ageing, medicines, and irritable bowel syndrome which often alternates with diarrhoea. The general guide for fibre intake is 25g to 30g each day so eat more fibre whenever you can. My philosophy is that if you want to feel great you need to eliminate every day.

Increase Your Dietary Fibre

The intestines and bowels work in a rhythmic action, called peristalsis, moving food through the body to eliminate waste.  To support this system in its action we need plenty of dietary fiber.  Over-processed “junk food” is low in fibre and results in a sludgy, fatty or creamy mass that cannot be moved easily through the body.

Choose From the Following Foods

We need plenty of plant foods that contain fibre; our main sources are whole grain cereals, vegetables, fruits, pulses, nuts and seeds.  Most cereal fibre is found in the outer layer of grains which are removed when grains are refined, and this is why a refined diet often results in constipation.  Choose instead brown rice, nuts, and wholemeal bread, which all add bulk to stools which in turn helps stimulate bowel contractions.

Increase Your Fluid Intake

If you do not drink enough fluids, you may well become constipated.  Fluids soften food which makes it easier for waste to leave the body naturally. Two-thirds of the body consists of water and we lose about a litre each day through the skin, lungs and stomach and via the kidneys as urine, therefore health needs to drink plenty of good fresh water.

Next Time – How to Avoid Stress This Christmas!

Live with joy and health 💚

Elizabeth Beetham