Drink Water
Yes, I know—this is as original as saying, “Breathe more!” But seriously, drinking 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day is one of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your health and energy. Just try not to chug it right before, during, or after meals, as it dilutes those all-important digestive juices! Aim to drink about 20 minutes before or after eating for the best results.
Oh, and if you’re constipated (we’ve all been there), try avoiding tobacco, coffee, sugar, and alcohol. They can mess with your gut and make things… sluggish.
Chew, Chew, Chew!
Your teeth aren’t just for smiling; they’re your first line of defense in digestion! So whatever you eat, chew it well—don’t inhale it. If it barely touches the sides on the way down, your stomach won’t be ready, and then… well, digestive chaos might ensue.
Also, make sure to sit down to eat. Yes, that means no scarfing down your lunch while running errands or hunched over your desk. Sit up straight! Shoulders back! This makes it easier for your stomach to do its job, and it’ll help you avoid that post-meal food baby. After eating, give yourself at least five minutes to digest before rushing off—it’s not a race! ♂️
Exercise—But No Need to Become a Marathoner!
Exercise regularly, but don’t feel like you have to start training for a marathon. Even gentle activities like walking, yoga, or cycling will do wonders for your health and digestion. Just keep moving, that’s the key! ♀️♂️♂️
Remedies for Poor Digestion
If your digestion is out of whack, taking supplements might not be the best first step—your digestive system may struggle to break them down. I recommend tinctures (except for constipation, which needs something that works its way through the gut). Liquid supplements can be super helpful, and once your digestion improves, you can graduate to tablets.
Bitter Herbs: Your New Best Friend
Now, don’t turn up your nose at the word “bitter.” Bitter herbs can be your digestive system’s best ally! A little bitterness on the tongue kick-starts the production of stomach acid (hello, hydrochloric acid!), which helps break down proteins and keeps pesky bugs like Helicobacter pylori at bay. Plus, it gets your liver and pancreas in on the action too—meaning better food absorption and fewer cravings. ️✨
Bitters work fast and should be taken before meals, but you can take them after if needed. If you struggle with acid reflux, heartburn, food intolerances, or cravings, look into adding more bitter foods and herbs to your diet.
Liver Love: Protecting Your Detox Hero
Bitter herbs like dandelion and artichoke are famous for liver support. If you tend to feel bloated or nauseous after fatty meals or suffer from general indigestion, your liver might need some TLC. Symptoms like skin issues, poor memory, or a metallic taste in your mouth could all be signs that your liver’s waving a little white flag. ️
Dandelion is packed with nutrients that support bile production, which helps break down fats. Artichoke also supports healthy cholesterol levels and fat digestion. And then there’s milk thistle—the liver’s bodyguard! It’s known for protecting the liver from harmful substances like alcohol and medications, while also helping liver cells regenerate.
If you’ve been a little “naughty” to your liver lately (no judgment!) or you anticipate some upcoming indulgence, milk thistle is a great addition to your regime. It’s perfect for when you’re making amends or, shall we say, “retoxing” with enthusiasm!
For more info, or to book a coffee enema along with your colonic (your liver will thank you!), contact us at ask@completehealthclinic.com.
To kick start your health routine, why not start with this delicious tomato soup with basil, so easy to make!
Healthy Benefits of basil – May improve the following:
- skin health
- digestion
- help with kidney stones
- fight range of infections
- aid in blood sugar regulation
- support liver health
- eye health
- reduce inflammation