Foods That Improve Digestion

Your digestive tract is an important factor in your general health. It is responsible for the absorption of nutrients and elimination of waste. Many people suffer from digestive issues such as cramping, bloating abdominal pain, gas, constipation, and diarrhea for multiple reasons. Fortunately, you can eat your way to a healthier digestive tract by eating foods that improve your digestion:

Yogurt

Yogurt is produced by fermenting milk with lactic acid bacteria. It contains friendly bacteria known as probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria that reside in the digestive tract where they work to improve digestion and keep your gut healthy. Not only do probiotics improve your digestive health, but they also improve upon a wide range of digestive issues such as, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. They occur naturally in your gut, but you can add more of them through eating yogurt.

Apples

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, or in this case, keeps stomach pains away. Apples are an amazingly rich source of soluble fiber and protein. Apples are also a good source of pectin, a compound that increases the bulk and volume of your stool. That’s why apples are commonly eaten as a cure for diarrhea. Pectin has also been shown to play a role in decreasing intestinal infections and the inflammation in the colon.

Fennel

Fennel, is a plant that comes complete with long green stalks and a pale bulb. It is primarily used as an additive to increase the flavors of food. While it is utilized for its flavor enhancing properties, it also has a prodigious fiber content. Fiber helps to prevent constipation and improve the regularity of the digestive tract. Fennel also possesses an antispasmodic agent that helps to relax the smooth muscles in your digestive tract, and can reduce flatulence, cramping, and bloating.

Kefir

Kefir is a cultured dairy product similar to yogurt. Instead of fermented milk though, it is made by adding kefir “grains” to milk. The bacteria that arises as a result of the culturing process helps with the digestion of lactose and reduces some of its negative consequences, such as cramping, gas, and bloating.