Chewing: First Digestive Step
Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing food thoroughly reduces digestive work later. Saliva's enzymes start breaking down food, signaling the stomach to prep for digestion. Aim for 20-30 chews per bite.
Mindful Eating Habits
Eating mindfully improves digestion. Concentrate on your meal, chew slowly, avoid distractions. This ancient practice enhances nutrient absorption and digestion by reducing stress, which can otherwise hinder the digestive process.
Hydration's Digestive Role
Traditional advice urges drinking warm water to aid digestion. It helps break down food, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients. However, limit water during meals to avoid diluting stomach acid.
Fermented Foods for Gut
Fermented foods like kimchi, yogurt, and kefir are centuries-old staples for gut health. They introduce beneficial bacteria to the digestive system, aiding in food breakdown and nutrient absorption.
Herbs Improve Digestion
Herbs such as ginger, peppermint, and fennel are traditional digestion aids. Ginger stimulates saliva flow and bile production, peppermint soothes the stomach, and fennel prevents gas.
Fasting Resets Digestion
Intermittent fasting, a practice with historic roots, gives the digestive system a rest. Periods without food intake enable repair and maintenance of the digestive tract, potentially enhancing gut function.
Posture Affects Digestion
Ancient practices suggest sitting upright or walking post-meal. Slouching or lying down can compress the stomach, slowing digestion. Movement helps food travel through the digestive system efficiently.
What initiates digestion?
Stomach acid secretion
Chewing in the mouth
Bile production
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