Coming from a history of IBS, I spent a lot of time and energy figuring out ways to correct my daily nagging symptoms.

That meant not only healing my gut, but supporting proper digestion so I could better breakdown food and therefore absorb more nutrients and avoid inflammatory responses caused by a leaky gut.

Here are a few ways that I support my digestive system daily. I recommend giving all of these a try or at the very least starting with one and adding to your digestive support routine in time. These simple tips go a long way especially when practiced regularly.

5 Ways to Support Digestion

1. GINGER

• Helps to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract.
• Add a 1/2-inch piece of fresh ginger or 1/4 tsp. ginger powder to your smoothie or incorporate it into your other meals.
• Drink ginger tea in-between meals.

2. EAT/DRINK SLOWLY & CHEW THOROUGHLY

• Digestion begins in the mouth.
• Chew your food 20-30 times before swallowing.
• Sip (don’t gulp) your smoothie. Take at least 20 minutes to consume it.

3. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

• Helps prepare the gut for incoming food by releasing enzymes that breakdown food.
• Add 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar to water and consume 15-20 minutes before your meals.

4. AVOID EATING WHEN STRESSED

• Stress compromises your bodies ability to digest food properly.
• Here are some tips to help: 1. Eat sitting, not standing. 2. Take a few deep breaths before eating. 3. Avoid eating when emotions are strong (sad, angry, excited) and 1-hour before or after a workout. These tips apply to drinking your smoothies as well.

5. DIGESTIVE ENZYMES & BITTERS

• Try the above suggestions first. If you continue to deal with digestive issues I recommend trying a digestive enzyme like Digestzymes.
• Digestive enzymes are important for people who fall into one or more of the following groups: 1. No gallbladder 2. Prior use of antacids (prescription, Tums, Rolaids, etc.) 3. Older adults. 4. Chronic illness or high stress.
• Digestive bitters can be helpful as well. Just add to water and drink in-between meals.