- By Prerna Targhotra
- Mon, 29 May 2023 08:45 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Every year, World Digestive Health Day is observed across the world to spread awareness about the importance of digestive health and how it plays a major role in determining our overall health and well-being. The special occasion of World Digestive Health Day 2023 was initiated by the World Gastroenterology Organisation to inform people about treatment, prevention and prevalence of digestive health problems.
According to the Pan American Health Organisation, digestive disorders account for around 3,75,170 deaths, 2,15,168 deaths in men, and 160,002 deaths in women. With such high rates of digestive illnesses across the world, it becomes extremely crucial to be vigilant and careful about your digestive health. By opting for minimal changes to a sedentary lifestyle, one can make a big difference. Therefore, we have brought you a list of some healthy habits that you should incorporate into your regular regime for a healthy digestive system and well-functioning gut health.
Everyday Habits For Better Gut Health
1. Balanced Diet
One of the best ways to promote a healthy gut is by incorporating a healthy diet into your regular regime. Including foods rich in fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, aid the digestion process, help in better absorption of foods, and maintain a fit body. A high-fibre diet regulates bacteria in the gut and the result is proper digestion.
2. Hydration
Drinking enough water throughout the day helps in maintaining overall health and hygiene. Hydration is one of the most important factors in improving digestion and promoting gut health. Adequate amounts of water help in regulating bowel movement, prevent constipation, and breaking down foods in combination with stomach acids and enzymes. One should at least drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily.
3. Regular Exercise
Along with a healthy diet and enough hydration, practising regular physical exercise can also enhance your gut health and promote better digestion. Regular exercise helps the body in digesting foods that may take longer to digest and stimulates your gut. At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise such as jogging, swimming, and cycling et regularly can strengthen your digestive system and improve its functioning.
4. Stress Management
Brigham Young University states that if the stress response is triggered too often, the body has a harder time recovering. This impedes the flow of digestion and can cause stomach upset. It can also contribute to the development of irritable bowel syndrome and/or ulcers. The digestive system cannot function properly with too much stress or stimulation. According to Healthline, reducing stress can lower inflammation in the gut, ease GI distress, and keep you nourished, since your body can focus on absorbing the nutrients you need.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)