Indigestion always sounds like such a mild word. “It’s just indigestion.” But those of you who are suffering from big digestive issues know it can be more than just a bit of embarrassing gas or irregularity. Symptoms can take over your life.
A little known fact about me: my favourite new client is one with a very difficult digestive issue. And I hope that seeing my eyes light up at hearing your symptoms isn’t offensive…I just love a good puzzle.
Two people can come to me with exactly the same symptoms, but how they got there and what they need to heal will be completely unique to them. This unfortunate truth is why so many deal with frustrating and frequently painful digestive symptoms for years before finding relief.
I’d also like to argue that mild indigestive symptoms, like gas or irregularity, also need some respect. The meaning of “indigestion” is “you’re not digesting properly”, and we are made of what we eat, digest, and absorb. Every cell is created from the nutrients we digest. A disruption in our digestion affects us at a cellular level, and I believe that the health of our digestive system is a core piece of our health puzzle.
And I’d like to add a very generous dose of hope to your day. In almost every case, balance can be found. It really can! Trial and error, a bunch of experiments, and your commitment are needed…but that’s a small price to pay when it comes to your health.
Best of all, there are few simple things you can do every day that can make a huge difference to your digestion. Spend a few weeks incorporating these digestive habits into your day and your digestive system will send you a huge thank you.
1. Be relaxed while eating. You’re either stressed or digesting. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy your meal.
2. Chew. Chew. Chew. Your stomach doesn’t have teeth. Swallowing inadequately chewed food really strains your digestive system and can be a cause of many symptoms.
3. No liquids with meals, and for up to an hour after. Liquids dilute your stomach acid and digestive juices. A small amount, ½ cup maximum, is okay. More will put out your digestive “fire.”
4. Be kind to your inner microbes. You’re 90% bacteria; most live within your digestive system, and play a huge role in your digestion. Take a good quality probiotic, enjoy fermented foods, and feed them lots of plant-based foods.
