A well-balanced diet is one of the most essential aspects to maintaining a healthy gut. It is crucial to prioritize planning your meals to better understand the vitamins you are consuming. In regards to gut health, there are certain kitchen staples you should consider keeping on your grocery list. Some contain digestive enzymes, while others simply prepare your digestive tract to properly absorb nutrients and reduce complications.
Why You Should Not Underestimate The Benefits That The Herbs In Your Kitchen Can Offer
Herbs are small but mighty; they can offer a wide variety of benefits for your gut. Let’s dive into the different benefits of herbs and which ones you should keep an eye out for at the grocery store.
Benefits of Herbs
- Inflammation can negatively contribute to digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Luckily, herbs contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help to keep inflammation at bay and in turn reduce the chances of experiencing more health ailments.
- Certain herbs also help to soothe your body and relieve you of digestive complications such as stomach pain or uneasiness. Chamomile is especially relaxing and easy on the stomach. Consider adding chamomile to your night time routine as a way to soothe your stomach before bed.
- Herbs such as dandelion and garlic contain substances that work like a prebiotic. A probiotic for bloating and gut health is extremely important, but also requires prebiotics to truly thrive. Prebiotics help to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, and consuming these herbs can be an easy way to increase your prebiotic intake.
- Ashwagandha and licorice root have adaptogenic properties that can help your body better adapt to any stress you might be experiencing.
- Some herbs also contain essential vitamins. For example, chives are delicious and can offer you a boost of vitamin C and vitamin A. Sometimes, getting your necessary daily intake of essential vitamins can seem challenging and overwhelming. Adding nutrient-dense herbs to your meals can be an easy way to help you reach your vitamin goals for the day with little to no effort. Parsley, basil, thyme, and mint are all great examples of nutrient-dense herbs!
While herbs do not directly contain digestive enzymes, they can help prepare the body to properly utilize the digestive enzymes that are consumed. So the next time you are headed to the grocery store, be sure to not overlook the herb aisle!
How Fruit Can Help You Boost Your Digestive Enzyme Levels
Not only is fruit delicious, but many fruits contain digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes help your body properly break down macronutrients and allow you to properly absorb and use these nutrients to their highest potential. Here are some fruits and the digestive enzymes they contain:
- Papaya - Papaya contains the digestive enzyme called papain which falls under the umbrella of enzymes called protease. Protease enzymes help the body properly digest protein. Papain is also known to help heal wounds. Papayas are generally in season during the months of May to September, making it a wonderful fruit option in these coming months.
- Pineapple - Pineapple, which is actually native to the Americas, contains a digestive enzyme called bromelain. Bromelain is known to help break down protein when it enters the digestive tract. Pineapples also contain antioxidants that can support your bone health, immunity levels, and gut health.
- Avocado - Avocados contain the digestive enzyme called lipase which is responsible for helping the body break down fats. Avocados are extremely versatile in the kitchen and can pair wonderfully with many different cuisines.
- Mango - Mango is a powerhouse for digestive health. Mangoes contain amylases which help your body break down carbohydrates and proteases.
While your body naturally produces digestive enzymes, sometimes it can struggle to maintain a healthy supply. As a result, your digestive health can be negatively impacted. Adding these fruits to your grocery list can help you maintain your digestive enzyme levels. A digestive enzyme supplement can also help you maintain your enzyme levels. Sexy & Slim is a great bloating supplement option as it contains a digestive enzyme complex!
The Power of Whole Grains and Their Impact On Your Digestion
Whole grains contain all the different parts of the grain kernel including the endosperm, germ, and bran. In comparison, refined grains only contain endosperm due to the process they undergo that removes the germ and bran. Whole grains tend to contain more fiber and help slow the absorption of food in the body. The true key for a healthy digestive process is fiber, which is what makes whole grains amazing for gut health.
Fiber helps to increase the weight and size of your stool which can alleviate issues such as constipation or irregular bowel movements. However, it is important to note how much fiber you are consuming as too much fiber can actually cause digestive complications.
Listed below are some whole grains to consider adding to your shopping cart!
- Brown rice contains insoluble and soluble fiber. Its high fiber content leaves you feeling full for longer. It is a wonderful alternative to white rice due to its higher nutrient content.
- Quinoa, which is gentle on the stomach, not only contains fiber but also protein! It is a great way to get some extra protein into your diet, and can be especially beneficial for someone who sticks to a plant-based diet.
- Whole wheat bread and pasta can be great alternatives to their generic counterparts. If you are finding ways to make your meals more nutrient-dense, then making the switch over to whole wheat pasta and bread might be the right option for you.
- Oats are high in soluble fiber which helps to promote bowel movements and moves any trapped stool that might be stuck in your digestive tract. Oats can be extremely versatile in the kitchen and can act as a blank canvas that you can make sweet or savory.
These foods can help you on your journey to better digestion! Remember, consistency with your meals and nutrient intake is essential.