NUTRITION

FOODS THAT AID Digestion Digestion By Amber Arevalos

Digestion is crucial to our overall health. As we age, our bodily functions start to slow down, and we might even incur several digestion issues such as constipation, diverticulosis, polyps, GERD, and IBS. There are various ways to keep our gut intact, and one, in particular, is by consuming digestionpromoting foods.

Some of the more common foods we consume that may help with your digestion are pineapple, apples, beans, broccoli and bananas. These are simple healthy foods we often associate with health. Pineapple is delicious and supports our gut by providing digestive enzymes such as bromelain. This enzyme assists in the breakdown of proteins in food and eases the digestive process, which can help reduce bloating and prevent gas buildup.

Andrew Akhaphong, M.S., RD, LD states that apples contain a fiber called pectin, which is very subtle on the gut compared to others like chicory root or inulin, which may cause excessive bloating or abdominal discomfort in those with existing digestive conditions. Pectin has also been associated with helping to protect the lining of the gut and may help with nutrient absorption.

Leafy greens are packed with nutrients that help with digestion. Research done by Johns Hopkins Medicine shows that leafy greens contain high amounts of folate, vitamin C, vitamin K and Vitamin A. This study also found that leafy greens also contain a specific type of sugar that helps fuel the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Leafy greens also provide an insoluble fiber that aids in the digestion process.

Some more adventurous options are fermented foods such as sauerkraut, yogurts, kefir and other probiotic products. These products contain live bacteria that help digest foods and keep the gut healthy. These probiotic foods may ease symptoms of bloating, stomach pain, diarrheas, and constipation.

Consider adding some or all of the foods mentioned above to your diet plan. To help prevent many of the digestive issues most people face when over the age of 50 follow these tips. Check your medications, as some medications can cause digestive problems; exercise regularly, drink plenty of fluids and eat foods that benefit digestive health.

No one likes that uncomfortable bloating feeling or sitting on the toilet for hours just trying to pass a bowel movement. Take care of your digestive system as it is the primary system that breaks down and absorbs nutrients that give us energy, immunity, repair, and growth abilities.

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