All articles tagged with #digestion
Fiber is essential, but increasing intake too quickly can cause bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and even blockages. Aim for 25–38 grams daily (the typical target range), but only gradually raise intake by about 3–5 grams at a time, giving the body 1–2 weeks to adjust, stay hydrated, and diversify fiber sources to include both insoluble and soluble types.
A dietitian commits to eating a banana daily for a week to test practicality and health effects. She reports easier meal planning, steadier energy, fewer cravings, and improved digestion, highlighting bananas’ key nutrients—potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, antioxidants, and hydration. The piece also notes that moderation matters (one to two per day is generally safe) and offers easy ways to incorporate bananas (smoothies, toast, desserts, baking). It concludes that bananas are convenient, budget-friendly, and nutritious, but variety remains important for a balanced diet.
A health journalist challenges herself to meet the recommended 25 grams of daily fiber for a week, detailing how she boosted fiber with chia-oatmeal breakfasts and fiber-rich foods like beans, nuts, fruits, and vegetables; she notes feeling fuller and experiencing smoother digestion, while experts explain fiber’s broad benefits and warn to increase intake gradually and stay hydrated.
Caffeine can stimulate gut motility and help some people digest after meals, but it can worsen digestion for those with irritable bowel syndrome. Regular coffee intake is linked to a healthier gut microbiome and polyphenols, though caffeine's long half-life can disrupt sleep, which harms gut health. Experts advise caffeinated coffee before noon and switching to decaf or herbal tea later in the day.
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University reviewed bamboo’s health literature and found it may help regulate blood sugar, improve gut health, and bolster anti-inflammatory responses, aided by its high protein content, fiber, and vitamins, though they caution that more high-quality human trials are needed before firm recommendations.
A Vogue health feature explains that gut health influences immune, brain, and metabolic health, and outlines a five-step, personalized approach—remove triggers, replace digestive factors, reinoculate with beneficial bacteria, repair the gut lining, and rebalance lifestyle factors—guided by professionals and sometimes stool testing, with emphasis on consistency over quick detoxes.
A traditional drink made with sattu and cinnamon can support weight loss, improve digestion, and reduce bloating when incorporated into a balanced routine, but it is not a magic solution and should be complemented with healthy lifestyle habits.
A gastroenterologist explains that enjoying mutton biryani is safe if portion size and frequency are controlled, highlighting that moderation can help avoid health issues like glucose spikes and inflammation, especially for those with metabolic concerns.
Taking a gentle walk after Christmas dinner, dubbed 'fart walking,' can improve sleep by aiding digestion, reducing stress, managing blood sugar levels, and regulating body temperature, making it a beneficial post-meal activity especially during the holiday season.
To combat Christmas bloating, incorporate fermented foods for gut health, use ginger to stimulate digestion, eat oats for fiber and stability, enjoy papaya for enzyme support, and snack on apples for regularity, all while maintaining hydration and sleep to enjoy the festive season comfortably.
A gastroenterologist shares ten simple, sustainable habits to improve gut health, including mindful eating, regular walking, fermented foods, adequate sleep, and stress reduction, emphasizing consistency over strict diets for long-term benefits.
Recent research suggests that moderate caffeine intake from coffee can help relieve constipation by stimulating bowel movements through increased colonic contractions and supporting gut microbiota diversity, especially in younger and middle-aged adults. However, decaffeinated coffee does not have the same effect, and the benefits may diminish with age. To maximize digestive benefits, it is recommended to consume coffee in moderation, at appropriate times, and with proper hydration, while considering individual tolerance and health conditions.
Dr. Vatsya from Fortis emphasizes that eating late at night disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm, increasing risks of blood sugar spikes, diabetes, high blood pressure, and belly fat, and advocates for early dinners before 7 pm to promote better health and sleep quality.
Magnesium is a vital mineral with traditional and modern uses, potentially aiding sleep, stress, and digestion, especially in deficiency cases. While some studies support its benefits for sleep and constipation, evidence for stress and mood improvement is less conclusive. It is best obtained through diet, with supplements used cautiously and tailored to individual needs, following recommended doses. Overall, magnesium is beneficial but not a miracle cure, and realistic expectations are advised.
Harvard-trained gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi warns that common bathroom habits like prolonged sitting, straining, and smartphone use can harm digestion and gut health. He recommends mindful practices such as limiting toilet time, avoiding distractions, supporting natural bowel posture, and maintaining hygiene to improve bowel movements and prevent long-term digestive issues.