Your digestive system is responsible for providing your body with all of the nourishment and energy it needs in order to function. That said, it’s incredibly important not to neglect your stomach, intestines, or the delicate balance of your digestive system in general.

 

The good news is that taking charge of your digestive health once and for all is easier than you might think. Making just a few smart, simple changes in the way you approach your lifestyle can make a world of difference when it comes to all aspects of your overall health. Let’s take a closer look at some excellent places to start.

 

Make sure you’re getting enough fiber

 

Fiber is absolutely essential when it comes to maintaining optimal digestive health. Fiber doesn’t just keep you regular either. It helps maintain intestines that are free of toxic build-up, prevents constipation, and helps you feel full on fewer calories. It also helps to lower your overall blood cholesterol levels.

 

Doctors and health experts recommend adding fiber to your diet at a ratio of 14 grams per 1000 calories ingested. Foods that contain natural fiber include fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains. Combine both insoluble fiber (found in foods like whole grain products) and soluble fiber (found in foods like beans) in order to maintain the optimal level of digestive health.

 

Stay hydrated

 

It’s also important to consider factors that may alter the amount of daily water intake that would be right for you as individual. These factors include what you weigh, how active you are, and what the climate is like where you live. If you’re the type that doesn’t like plain water, try adding lemon or cucumber to yours for a refreshing change. You can also up your intake of foods that are high in water content, such as soup or herbal. A good rule of thumb for your daily intake of water is 30ml per kg of body weight.

 

Stay active and calm

 

We all know that exercise is good for the muscles, circulation, and respiratory system. However, it’s important to understand that getting plenty of physical activity is important to your digestive system as well. Medical experts recommend getting at least half an hour of exercise daily. It can be any type of activity that you really enjoy, including light walking or aerobics.

 

Stress is another factor that can really affect digestive health, so it’s also important to keep stress levels to a minimum. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep at night and taking care of your emotional wellbeing. Downtime is important, as is time spent doing things you enjoy.