It is important to monitor your diet for the intake of proper nutritional value. There are certain foods that should be avoided to ensure the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. Many of these foods will even cause reactions, upset stomach, nausea, or heartburn. The following are certain substances or foods that should be avoided or only used occasionally to ensure a healthy digestive system.

Fried Food

Food that is prepared by frying is typically associated with high contents of saturated and trans fats, in addition to containing high amounts of calories. These foods should be consumed in moderation. For some, lower fat varieties exist. Some foods that are high in fat content include; beef, cheese, butter, eggs, milk, pork, oils.

The regular consumption of foods that contain high levels of saturated and trans fats are also strongly correlated with the condition of being overweight.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant located in a variety of foods that is can be addictive when used excessively over prolonged periods of time. Caffeine is associated with an array of emotional and physical negative effects, including addiction, fatigue, hormonal imbalances leading to irritability, anxiety, and mood swings. Caffeine also has marked effects on the digestive system as it increases production of gastric acid.

Alcohol

When used in moderate amounts, alcohol is actually marked with slight amount of health benefits. However, when used in excess, alcohol is cause for a variety of problems, including digestive health. Alcohol interferes with proper digestion. It is readily absorbed into the bloodstream and the liver is responsible for its prompt removal. This slows the liver from accomplishing the array of other tasks it is responsible for.

Artificial Sweeteners and Fats

The majority of artificial sweeteners or fats located in food only serve to create excess gas within the digestive system. This is associated with overall digestive problems.

Tips for Improved digestion

Decrease overall intake of these foods and increase ingestion rates of other healthier foods. Take time to read food labels (especially on processed or convenience foods), find healthy recipes, and substitute healthy options when possible. It is important to “give in” to cravings on occasion in moderate amounts. The following is a list of several things that typically enhance the overall digestive process.

• Eat for nourishment: Proper nourishment is essential for all biological systems, eat to provide nourishment.
• Eat slowly: Chewing is the first part of digestion; this breaks food into sizes that are more easily digested.
• Limit portion intake: Large portions tend to aggravate the digestive system.
• Eat healthy: This especially includes fruits and vegetables that contain high amounts of natural digestive enzymes.
• Drink Water: Water is necessary for all biological systems.
• Relax: Remember to take time to relax in your day. Eating should never be a race.
• Moderation: Moderation is the golden key. By eating foods moderately, it is possible to eat all foods.
• Reward yourself: Find ways to reward yourself for a good day that doesn’t involve food.

Find additional solutions for your digestive system here.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/Intestinal-gas/DG00048
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-system

Written by Lillian Taylor for MicroNutra Health™

This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 30th, 2008 at 4:46 am and is filed under Digestive Enzymes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.