Healthy digestion depends on interconnected organs that work together to breakdown the food you eat into nutrients that are used by the body for energy, repair, and growth.
According to research studies, about 70 million people experience problems with digestion such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, heartburn, and IBS. The problem lies in the western diet that contains too much of processed foods that are low in nutrients and high in empty calories as well as a sedentary lifestyle.
While medication can help relieve digestive problems, a more lasting solution may be achieved by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes diet and exercise. Exercises that help with digestion do not have to be very intense or time-consuming to have a positive effect. Let’s look at some simple examples:
- Walking: A short 15 to 20-minute walk after a meal can do wonders for digestion. Walking stimulates the midsection and speeds up the rate at which food passes through the digestive tract speeding up the digestive process.
- Yoga: Regular practice of yoga exercises, which includes breathing exercises, helps reduce stress levels which improves your digestion. Certain yoga poses may also help stimulate and massage the organs in your stomach promoting better digestive function.
- Core strengthening: Strengthening the core muscles with bodyweight exercises such as pushups, planks, or other abdominal exercises will have a long-lasting positive effect on your digestive system.
- Cardiovascular exercise: When done in moderation, jogging, biking, or aerobics help improve blood flow which is an important aid to the digestive process.
Following the above-mentioned tips will not only help improve your digestion but your overall health and wellbeing as well. GI Alliance provides specialized services and treatments for a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions in The US. Call us today for an appointment.
