Good digestion is often an overlooked aspect of health, but it plays a crucial role in overall wellness. Even if you’re eating healthy food, improper digestion can lead to a range of issues—from indigestion to more serious conditions like nutrient deficiencies and chronic inflammation. In this blog, we’ll explore some practical tips for strong digestion in Winter.
The Importance of Proper Digestion
Poor digestion can prevent your body from creating clean blood and absorbing essential vitamins and minerals. For example, a study published in “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” found that digestive dysfunction can negatively impact the absorption of nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12, even when you’re eating nutrient-rich foods.
This means that, without proper digestion, you might still feel fatigued, weak, or ill—even with the healthiest food.
The Role of Hydration: Sip, Don’t Gulp
One common mistake people make during meals is drinking large gulps of water. While staying hydrated is essential, excessive water consumption during meals can dilute the stomach’s digestive enzymes, impairing your body’s ability to break down food properly. Stomach acid and digestive enzymes are critical to the initial stages of digestion, and when they become too diluted, it can lead to indigestion and bloating.
To avoid this, try sipping small amounts of water throughout the meal rather than drinking large quantities all at once. This ensures that your stomach has enough digestive power to break down the food effectively. Ideally, aim to drink water about 15 minutes before 60 minutes after a meal.
Spices for Digestion: November Chai Spices
November is the perfect time to incorporate warming, aromatic spices into your diet. These spices include ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
Together, these spices form the perfect combination for a warming, comforting chai tea, which is an excellent way to boost digestion during the colder months. They also help to relax the digestive muscles and reduce any cramping or discomfort.
A Yoga Pose for Digestion: The Seated Twist
One of the best poses for digestion is the Seated Twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana), a powerful twist that targets the spine, abdomen, and digestive organs.
Here’s how to do Seated Twist:
- Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you.
- Bend your right knee and place your right foot outside your left thigh. Keep your left leg extended.
- Inhale and lengthen your spine, and as you exhale, twist your torso to the right, bringing your left elbow to the outside of your right knee.
- Gently press your palm into the floor behind you to deepen the twist while keeping your spine straight.
- Hold for 5-10 breaths, then slowly release and repeat on the other side.
Lifestyle Tips for Strong Digestion
In addition to practicing mindful hydration, incorporating digestive-supporting spices, and doing yoga, there are a few lifestyle changes that can further support your digestive health:
- Eat slowly: There are a portion of digestive enzymes that’re made from chewing, ensure you always chew each bite.
- Incorporate fiber: A diet high in fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is important for digestion.
- Limit processed foods: Processed foods can disrupt your gut microbiome and contribute to digestive issues. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods instead.
- Reduce stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system, leading to issues like indigestion and heartburn. You’ll have a hard time digesting food if you’re stressed.
—
Remember, without good digestion, even the healthiest food can fall short in promoting your well-being. So, take time this November to nurture your digestive health 🙂
Love,
Check out my other blogs about ayurveda and remember to check my Instagram and Facebook for website updates.
- Chitturi, S., & Farrell, G. C. (2008). *Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: The most common cause of chronic liver disease in the world*. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 23(6), 828-836.
- Zick, S. M., et al. (2011). *The effect of ginger on nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: A systematic review*. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 45(8), 649-655.
