Our digestive systems are responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients that we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. You cannot take care yourself if you don’t take care your digestive system. Our vital organs will not work efficiently if we do not absorb nutrients properly. Your gut is the best place for you to start if your goal is overall health.
Ten tips are recommended to help improve and maintain the digestive system. By taking the right steps to improve digestive health, you will be able to enjoy a healthier life in many ways.
Fiber, your best friend
Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes are all part of a high-fiber diet. Fiber is important for a healthy digestive system. It helps to prevent constipation and ensures that food moves through the body more quickly. Fiber is not only good for keeping your system running smoothly but also helps treat and prevent diseases such as IBS (irritable intestinal syndrome), diverticulitis, and hemorrhoids. Fiber also helps you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
Two types fiber
It is important to consume both types of fiber – soluble and non-soluble – because they play different roles. Insoluble fiber, or roughage, cannot be digested and adds bulk to the stool. Wheat bran, whole grains, and vegetables are good sources. The soluble fiber can help prevent watery stools by drawing in water. You can find soluble fiber in legumes, oat bran and seeds. It is important to balance both types of fibre in your diet because they play different roles.
Limiting the fat
Constipation is more common when eating fatty foods. We need fat to stay healthy, so it is not a good idea to eliminate all of it from our diet. Fats slow down digestion and also remove the healthy ingredients. Before we can break down the fats the carbohydrates or proteins will already have begun to ferment. It is best to combine high-fat foods with foods rich in fiber to make them easier to digest.
Lean meats
Our bodies require meat to provide protein. However, fatty cuts of meat are bad for digestion and can make it more difficult. Choose lean cuts of meat when you buy it, such as skinless chicken or pork loin. Red meats are more fatty and harder to digest, even though they taste great. Inability to digest red meats may increase the risk of colon cancer.
Add Probiotics
Probiotics are the same friendly bacteria already present in your gut. They are essential for the efficient digestion of food, so keeping their number high is ideal. Gut flora can be affected by stress, antibiotics and poor diet. We are then at risk of exposure to harmful bacterial strains which can lead to disease. Dr. David Kahana is a board-certified pediatrician and gastroenterologist by the American Board of Pediatrics. He says that probiotics are not only needed to fight pathogens, but also for the absorption of nutrients. They can also help treat IBS, boost your immune system and break down lactose.
Plan your meals
Your digestive system should have a regular routine to help it process food. Keep your digestive system on track by eating your meals and snacking on a regular schedule. Plan your meals to be at the same time every day, and your snacks at equal intervals. It is best to allow your stomach 3 to 4 hours to digest each meal. You should also eat your last meal at least three hours before going to bed to ensure that it is digested.
Hydration is essential
Fiber pulls water into the colon and creates softer, bulkier stools. It is important to ensure that stool moves easily and regularly. Constipation is not only uncomfortable, but also unhealthy when caused by dehydration. The stomach acid becomes less acidic when there is not enough water in it. This can affect digestion. Drink water throughout the day.
Stop the bad habits
In general, smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming excessive caffeine are all bad for you. These factors can cause stomach ulcers, heartburn, and other digestive problems. It has been proven that smoking can cause bile from your intestines and stomach to flow together. This can be dangerous, especially if the acid flows towards your esophagus. Heartburn will result.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps keep food moving in your system, reducing the chances of constipation. Maintaining a healthy body weight is also beneficial to digestive and overall health. Stick to your daily or weekly exercise schedule. Keep going even if you find it difficult at first. Your body will thank you.
The Source of Fiber
2) Fiber and Prebiotics – Mechanisms and Health Benefits
Insoluble vs. soluble fiber
Choose Healthy Fats
(5) 5 Exercises to Promote Digestive Health
Alternative Medicine Magazine published the article How to Improve Your Digestive Health first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. This is not a substitute for standard treatment. Rather, it is an option that allows patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare.
Naturopathy, on other hand, is used as a complement to conventional medical treatments. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are many differences between naturopathic medicine, CAM, and other modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths work with the patient’s family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one’s life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don’t get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
- The belief that illness is due in part to an imbalance between the individual (and his/her environment)
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use natural products over synthetic chemicals
- A healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some therapies can have side effects that need to be considered in order to maximize their potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe natural remedies are more effective.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They want to spend less.
- Natural products make them feel safer.
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They desire less stress in their life.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children receive a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They need safe and effective medications.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What should I look for when looking for a qualified holistic doctor
How to find a doctor who practices holistic medicine?
The best doctors are those who specialize in the field they practice. Holistic medicine is what we are referring too. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. You should be able to explain your holistic health to them and why you would like to see a holistic physician.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. The NBOHMCA provides certification in many areas, including naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, herbalism, and aromatherapy.
You can search our directory for holistic practitioners in your local area. You may be able search online to find a holistic physician near you if there aren’t any listed.
Contact your local hospital or medical center to confirm whether they offer holistic healthcare.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: jbenson@innovisionhm.com
Title: How to Improve Your Digestive Health
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/conditions/gut-health/digestive-issues/how-to-improve-your-digestive-health/
Published Date: Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:15:28 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Naturopathic Medicine & Holistic Medicine.
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine is based on surgery and drugs as the primary treatment. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. This is not a substitute for standard treatment. Rather, it is an option that allows patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare.
Naturopathy, on other hand, is used as a complement to conventional medical treatments. It addresses the whole body and mind as well as the soul. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.
It is important for you to know that some CAM modalities can overlap with conventional medicine. Doctors and naturopaths can both prescribe herbal remedies. But, naturopaths are more concerned with lifestyle changes than prescribing medications.
Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” as it works in conjunction with conventional medicine and not to replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.
There are many differences between naturopathic medicine, CAM, and other modalities.
- Naturopaths do not usually prescribe medication or diagnose illnesses.
- Naturopaths work with the patient’s family physician and may refer outpatients to specialists if necessary.
- Naturopathic physicians are regulated by provincial licensing boards, whereas CAM practitioners are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy focuses on prevention and wellness and offers education about diet, exercise, and nutrition.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists can provide personalized care, based on the individual needs of each patient.
- Naturopaths are licensed by regulatory bodies like the College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario.
- Naturopatrists can be licensed by the provincial regulatory agencies.
- Naturopaticians have been registered with The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
- The College of Naturopaths of British Columbia is responsible for licensing Naturotherapists.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners is authorized to license Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency licenses homeopaths.
- Holistic refers to the belief in all aspects of one’s life, including spiritual, physical, and emotional. Holistic doctors will take into account all aspects of life, rather than focusing on one.
What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?
Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don’t get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines and mind-body therapies, such as acupuncture or massage therapy, homeopathy (traditional Chinese medicine), chiropractic care, biofeedback and hypnosis. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies incorporate elements from conventional medicine. Some forms of acupuncture use needles while others use acupressure and moxibustion with heat.
Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. They may improve your general well-being as well as reduce fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.
There is no definitive definition of CAM. However, most definitions include at a minimum one of the following:
- A holistic perspective that looks at the whole person, including body, mind as well as spirit and environment.
- The belief that mind and body interact with each other and have an influence on one another
- The belief that illness is due in part to an imbalance between the individual (and his/her environment)
- A treatment that focuses on the whole person instead of just the symptoms
- Combination of Eastern philosophy and Western science
- Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
- Use natural products over synthetic chemicals
- A healing touch
- Mindfulness
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Herbal remedies
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Hypnotherapy
- Spiritual healing
- Biofeedback
- Nutritional counseling
- Energy healing
Certain CAM therapies have potential dangers, as well as their potential benefits. Some therapies can cause serious harm or even death if practiced incorrectly. Some therapies can have side effects that need to be considered in order to maximize their potential benefits. If you are considering using any CAM, discuss these issues with your doctor before deciding whether to try them.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They want to avoid harmful drugs and surgery.
- They believe natural remedies are more effective.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They want to spend less.
- Natural products make them feel safer.
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They desire less stress in their life.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children receive a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They need safe and effective medications.
Statistics
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- Holistic medicine – PubMed
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING FOR TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE–PubMed
- A Randomized controlled trial to determine the effect of foot reflexology on depression and anxiety in older women: PubMed
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
How To
What should I look for when looking for a qualified holistic doctor
How to find a doctor who practices holistic medicine?
The best doctors are those who specialize in the field they practice. Holistic medicine is what we are referring too. Doctors must be able to treat patients holistically. This includes treating the whole person and not just the symptoms. You should be able to explain your holistic health to them and why you would like to see a holistic physician.
The doctor should be able to understand holistic health as well as complementary and alternative therapies (CAM), such chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Holistic health practitioners will also be able, in most cases, to diagnose and discuss your condition.
Ask if your doctor is certified by professional organizations such as the American Holistic Medical Association or the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. The NBOHMCA provides certification in many areas, including naturopathic medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, herbalism, and aromatherapy.
You can search our directory for holistic practitioners in your local area. You may be able search online to find a holistic physician near you if there aren’t any listed.
Contact your local hospital or medical center to confirm whether they offer holistic healthcare.
Your local library has books and resources that can help you with holistic health.
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