EASY TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR DIGESTION

1. Gastric super foods
Ginger renowned for its flavour, ginger improves gut health by accelerating the movement of food through to the stomach, according to a 2013 study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Centre.

Liquorice  plant protects the oesophagus by boosting mucin production. This slimy protein substance, found in saliva, form saprotective barrier against stomach acid.

Yoghurt is full of healthy bacteria, or probiotics, that will help to balance the microflora in your gut and replenish the health of the colon.

2. Chew on this
Chewing gum after a meal can stimulate saliva production and lower the creation of stomach acid, enabling you to digest your meal before heart burn or indigestion have time to take hold.

3. Quit puffing
Cigarette smoking reduces the pressure between the stomach and oesophagus, causing acid re-flux, and is linked to inflammatory bowel conditions, stomach ulcers and many cancers, according to the Gastroenterological Society of Australia.

4. Foods to avoid
Chilli although may tickle the taste buds, it can irritate the oesophagus and lead to heart burn.

Alcohol can inflame your oesophagus and stomach lining, causing interference of normal nutrient absorption.

Acidic foods including the likes of tomatoes, citrus fruits and vinegar are known to trigger heart burn.

5. Water Balance
Drinking hot water and herbal teas is a great way to detoxify the body and improve digestive health, according to experts. Drinking eight glasses of water a day can help to improve the stomach pH. However,avoid drinking large amounts of fluid 30 minutes before a meal as it can dilute the stomach enzymes, making it difficult for your body to break down food and absorb nutrients.

6. Calm down
Stress can affect the enteric nervous system, causing bloating, constipation or diarrhoea, says the Gastroenterological Society of Australia. Stress may also aggravate peptic ulcers or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

7. Get physical
Regular exercise will help strengthen the abdomen and intestinal muscles and help push digestive contents through your body. Just 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise everyday can improve digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Brisk walking, bike riding and swimming are all great ways to do this. Given that stress can trigger IBS, yoga is a great way to keep active whilst reducing your anxiety levels. Sit-ups can also prevent you feeling bloated or gassy as they strengthen the abdominal muscles. Aim to do one set of 8-12 sit-ups and increase the number, as you feel stronger. If you suffer from bowel problems, pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen your muscles and improve digestive flow.