5 Easy Habits to Support Better Digestion Daily

Digestion is a complex and vital process that fuels every cell in your body. It’s an intricate system that relies on the harmonious interaction of various organs, enzymes and beneficial bacteria, all working together to ensure your body receives the nutrients it needs to thrive.

To improve digestion naturally, it requires more than just proper elimination processes. Factors such as diet, hydration, stress levels, sleep and an optimised gut microbiome play crucial roles. 

By taking a holistic approach to daily gut health, you can support both your digestion and your overall wellbeing in one. 

Try our top 5 tips below to cultivate better digestion habits, daily! 

1. Prioritise Hydration

Your body is naturally dehydrated upon waking, so aim to drink a 500ml glass of water to kick-start your digestive system and boost your hydration for the day. 

Many start their day with coffee on an empty stomach in an effort to improve regularity. Whilst coffee can give the digestive system the extra boost it may need, it can also be incredibly dehydrating. The bowels require enough water to eliminate effectively. 

If you’re looking for something with more flavour, try adding citrus or berries to your water, or sip on a caffeine-free herbal tea. 

2. Eat Fibre-Rich Foods Daily

Fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains are fibre-rich foods that support gut motility, regularity and better digestion naturally. Incorporate a variety of colourful produce into your meals to keep your digestive system thriving. 

Try sprinkling chia seeds on your smoothies, yoghurt or salads. Where possible, enjoy produce with the skin on like sweet potatoes, carrots and even kiwi fruits!

3. Stay Regular with Probiotics

Probiotics are the ultimate gut-loving allies, supporting a balanced microbiome and smoother digestion. 

By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, they help reduce bloating, enhance nutrient absorption and keep your gut feeling happy and healthy.

Enjoy naturally fermented foods like yoghurt, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh and kimchi which are high in probiotics. You can also include high-quality probiotic supplements in your daily routine. 

Look for one that offers multiple science-backed strains and 1 billion CFU per capsule. Probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis has been clinically shown to support regularity!

4. Chew Your Food Mindfully

Digestion actually begins in the mouth with your saliva and the enzymes in it! Slowing down and chewing your food can significantly improve digestion. 

This simple act allows your stomach to process food more efficiently, reducing bloating and discomfort. Plus, it gives you a moment to appreciate and foster gratitude for your food and the nutrients it provides. 

If you find this challenging, take a mindful breath before each meal or try putting your cutlery down halfway through eating to slow down the process. 

5. Manage Stress Levels

The gut and the brain are inextricably linked through the vagus nerve. So much so, that the gut has often been called the ‘second brain’. For this reason, chronic stress can disrupt the body’s natural processes and wreak havoc on our digestive system. 

Make time to prioritise rest and relaxation to better support your digestion daily. Try incorporating calming activities like yoga, deep breathing or a walk in nature. A balanced mind leads to a balanced gut!