As you start getting out more as the pandemic wanes, you might want to take special care with your diet to ensure you don’t get digestive troubles, which can reduce overall wellness.
According to Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of how to live long and be healthy, the health of the digestive system is the core of optimum health. Ayurvedic medicine asserts the digestive system is based on the strength and balance of its Agni (fire), which enables the body to absorb, digest and assimilate food. The teachings suggest an imbalanced Agni creates undigested residues, which form toxins that create imbalances and can lead to disease.
Some of the dietary guidelines for healthy digestion and strong Agni include:
- Allowing four to six hours between meals.
- Avoiding eating between meals.
- Avoiding foods with cold, wet and heavy qualities.
- Drinking ginger tea or hot water to stimulate the Agni.
- Starting a meal with pungent (hot), sour and salty flavors.
Add fiber to your diet
Plant-based foods that are high in fiber fill you up faster. That means you will be less likely to overeat. These foods also can help with digestive regularity. Increase your intake of high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.
Stay hydrated
Keeping your body well-hydrated is like making sure your car’s engine is well-lubricated. It keeps all your moving parts in sync and operating for top performance. Some fluids can also help with detoxification, which can be especially beneficial when your social calendar is full and your opportunities to overindulge are greater.
Look for teas that contain detoxifying herbs that stimulate your digestive system. Strengthening and soothing herbs are also incorporated into this balanced formula resulting in an effective yet gentle detox tea.
Slow down when eating
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to scarf down a meal in record time. But slowing down gives your body more time to process food. You’ll give your brain more time to communicate with your stomach and be more aware of when you’ve satisfied your hunger.
Manage stress
Too much stress can manifest multiple physical problems, including interrupting your digestion. Consider meditation or another method of relaxing and relieving stress. Getting plenty of rest can also help keep stress in check. If you’re looking for a good night of sleep, consider a non-caffeinated tea. Herbs for calming and relieving stress are often paired with organic, water-soluble, THC-free CBD to leave you feeling restored and rejuvenated.
Exercise
If you need one more reason to get moving, your digestive health could be it. Regular physical activity promotes better digestion. However, if you jump into a workout too quickly after eating, you could actually do the opposite. Eat lightly before exercising and then have a protein-rich balanced meal for recovery afterward.
Family Features contributed to this story. You can find more solutions for enhancing your digestive health at buddhateas.com.
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