BY CLAIR WHITTY
Stress is part of everyday life and it’s important to keep you alert and aware of your surroundings so that you can avoid danger. But unfortunately, excess stress is not good for your digestive system. It can have a negative effect on your gut because stress affects the production of digestive enzymes and the numbers of good gut bacteria. I know it’s difficult to avoid stress, life is busy and most of you are on the go the whole time. You can only do your best.
Symptoms of digestive problems can include bloating, sluggishness, constipation, heartburn, or you might even have episodes of diarrhoea. Eating while stressed, on the go, or when you’re angry is not helpful either. When you are eating try to be relaxed and calm, chew your food well, and avoid reading or watching electronic devices. Focus on the meal in full and be aware of what you’re eating, the smell, the colour, the taste, this is an important part of the digestive process.
It is important to look after your digestive system as long-term stress can also cause problems with absorbing nutrients from the food you eat. As well as digestive problems you may notice changes in your energy levels, mood, your hair, or skin. So, looking after your gut is crucial.
Fermented foods to support the digestive system include kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, miso, tempeh, natural yoghurt, apple cider vinegar. Herbal teas containing milk thistle, yarrow, dandelion, fennel or peppermint are ideal to promote healthy digestion.
There are supplements that you can take supplements to help support your digestive system. It can be difficult to figure out if you need digestive enzymes or if you need to replenish good gut bacteria, sometimes you need both.
You could start with digestive enzymes; they will help you to digest the food you eat so that you can absorb the nutrients you are eating. Digestive enzymes like Udo’s Choice Digestive Enzymes can help digest most food groups including bread, meat, vegetables, and dairy products. You simply take one with each meal, they work throughout the entire digestive tract. Over time, this will help you to get the benefit from the food you eat and an improvement in your symptoms.
Don’t let stress impact on your digestive system. Talk to us today.
Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
