“The best and most efficient pharmacy is within your own system.” ~Robert C. Peale
Photo courtesy of Chris Bentley
I recently had the wonderful opportunity to attend a day-long lecture on Digestive health. Well, that may sound a little boring, but a healthy digestive tract is the basis for a healthy disease free body and I find that fascinating! There are many factors that need to be examined when you are trying to create a healthy gut, and no two people are alike in this area, but here are the main standouts.
Eat a balanced intake of vital nutrients in the form of healthy protein, fat and carbohydrates.
Chew your carbohydrates and starches! The saliva in your mouth breaks down the starches into simple sugars that are taken up by the cells and used as energy. 20- 30 chews per bite full is adequate for most people.
Protein is digested by the stomach, pancreas, liver and small intestines. If you have low levels of stomach acid you will not be able to break down the protein to get the essential amino acids from protein that you need. Stomach acid also acts to sterilize your food and protect you from harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that tag onto your food.
Fats are digested by the liver, gall bladder, pancreas, and small intestines. The bile from your gallbladder emulsifies the fat, which is then broken down by enzymes from the pancreas.
We need fiber in our diet to move the digestive process along in a timely manner. Having 2-3 good bowel movements a day is healthy.
If you have a history of chronic bloating, burping, acid reflux, diarrhea, or constipation, these are not normal! And you do not need to suffer. These are issues that can be addressed in sessions with me and I would be happy to help!