Tips to Help with Digestion

Digestion is the cornerstone of all traditional Chinese medicine.

We often say that if you have any complications in your body, first begin with digestion. If things are not moving through the gut with ease, then everything will be affected. 

If there are big emotions, then the liver will often disrupt the bowels first by shifting the frequency, consistency, and comfort of the individual. Some people are blessed with good digestive function, but most of us suffer with stress, travel, or changes in schedule.

Hydration plays a huge role in our digestive system.

We are always told to stay hydrated, and if we are thirsty then we are already dehydrated. This is true. Try and stay ahead of water consumption by setting reminders to get your water in.

We recommend room temperature water to support the best digestive function. It is always important to keep hydrated. You’ll know you are getting enough water if your urination lightens in color throughout the day.

If you have difficulty passing stools, make sure you are getting enough fiber - both soluble and insoluble. I like to do a 50/50 mix of ground flax seed and psyllium. Store it in the fridge and use 1 tsp water and then take it at bedtime. 

Focus on getting water, tea, or fermented drinks like kombucha or kefir. Eating for the season is always important too. Eating warm cooked food, fiber, and herbs. These foods are not only for help with constipation, but in helping you stay regular as well. 

Other things to remember with digestive function is to switch to warm temperatures in cooked foods that are easy to digest. If you have diarrhea, painful gas, or an upset stomach - avoiding raw foods is a great place to start to warm up your system and keep you pain free.

Do you have anything that helps you with digestion?