4 Simple Tips to Improve Digestion

May 1, 2011

"quinoa veggies"

1. Chew your food, this seems basic enough, yet people often eat so fast that they forget to chew. Remember, your stomach doesn't have teeth and chewing food completely, gives your enzymes more surface area to work with.

2. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day, but limit liquid intake with meals. Drinking at meal time dilutes your “digestive fire” otherwise known as HCL (Hydrochloric Acid). The PH of the stomach is 2, which is an extremely acidic environment. This is necessary to rip minerals and proteins apart to be sent to the small intestine for absorption.

3. Eat cultured and fermented foods each day. They are a rich source beneficial bacteria and enzymes which are crucial for optimal digestion. Sauerkraut, miso, kefir, tamari, kombucha, natto-K, and pickled vegetables are all excellent sources.

4. Eat your veggies, nuts, seeds. and whole gluten free grains! They are a rich source of fiber which is necessary for proper elimination which reduces the body's toxic load and keeps the system clean.

photos: Megan Pru and Nooschi

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