Your digestive system has a big impact on how you feel. While it might not be the most fun to talk about in polite company, everyone has a digestive system, and it’s not uncommon to have issues. Problems with nausea, gas, bloating, and more can make life stressful, and no one wants to feel unwell. The truth is that some digestive issues can be embarrassing to address, especially if they arise while you’re around other people. So, if you’re looking to feel healthier and improve your digestive system, you can change your routine, including your diet and exercise levels. Get some tips on how to improve your digestive health in this guide.
1. Don’t Forget About Fiber
Most of us know that fiber can help regulate the digestive system, but it’s easy to forget about adding it to your diet. Many people are eating meals on the go, and many of these fast and convenient options don’t contain enough fiber. So, it’s wise to add more options like whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables to your diet. Ask your physician for advice if you have questions about how much fiber you need.
2. Make Your Bathroom Habits Better
While you might think it makes sense to put off going to the bathroom when you’re in public, this can actually be bad for our digestive health. You want to listen to your body’s signals and go when you need to go, even if this means going number two. And, if you find even at home you don’t feel comfortable in your own bathroom, you can make it a more comfy space by using a bidet.
3. Remember Hydration
When it comes to health advice, you might start to feel like every article says to drink water. While it might be standard advice, hydration is essential to many bodily functions. If you aren’t drinking enough water, you may get constipated more often. On the other side of common digestive problems, if you have a bout of diarrhea, remember to drink enough water to ensure your body doesn’t get dehydrated.
4. Incorporate Exercise
Just like with drinking enough water, exercising regularly is an overall way to improve your body’s health. This also applies to your digestive health. While for more consistent or severe stomach or digestive issues, you should speak to a doctor; gentle exercise can help with specific problems. If you’re mildly bloated or constipated, try going on a walk to get your body moving.
5. Work On Stress Levels
Stress can impact your body in many ways, and your digestive system definitely isn’t immune. In fact, there are likely many connections between your brain and gut health, even if all the specifics still aren’t known. If you’re stressed, you might notice more nausea, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. So, working on your mental health can impact your bodily health, too. Try working with a therapist for more chronic or concerning mental health issues. For daily stressors, do health coping mechanisms like exercise, meditation, or general self-care. Overall, these tips can help improve your overall digestive health and your general health. But, if you have issues that aren’t resolving or just need specific health advice, reaching out to a physician is your best and safest option. Your doctor is your best resource for your health problems.