Tips for Better Digestion :: Environmental and Health Concerns

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Tips for Better Digestion
by author Ruth Yanor-McRae, MH

Most of us have suffered from one of the following: heartburn, sour stomach, ulcers, overproduction of stomach acid, bloating and gas pains.

If digestive troubles occur more frequently than occasional celebratory overindulgences, there are a few simple but effective solutions.

Most importantly, consider the foods and drinks that you consume. You can probably resolve most of your digestive troubles by skipping the strong acids–coffee, pop, chocolate, alcohol, black tea and smoking. Eliminating fried foods also reduces a lot of the workload for your stomach and will benefit your arteries. Choosing simpler meals–one protein, one starch (rice, pasta, potatoes or bread) and some vegetables makes the digestive process easier still.

If you’re not a vegetarian, consider trying some vegetarian meals. Meat is often the most difficult food to digest.

Besides over-eating, the most powerful threat to happy digestion is the stress that we serve up with our meals. How many of these scenarios are you guilty of? Eating standing up, on the run, in your vehicle, while on the telephone or while working at your desk. Eating when under duress is a huge no-no. When you are feeling anxious, angry, hurried or under pressure, your body responds as though you were under attack. (Imagine stopping to eat while being chased by a mugger.)

Your body doesn’t differentiate between physical threats or imagined ones--it merely responds to your feelings. When you react to stress, your digestive system shuts down. Blood is shunted away from your digestive organs and instead is pumped into your arms and legs (to fight or run more effectively). Your bowels and bladder are signalled to empty themselves (so you can run faster). When your body is set to fight or run away, food is an unwelcome burden.

Handle this one by ensuring that the time you have allotted for eating is ample. Take a few deep breaths before beginning your meal. Reassure yourself that you are safe and all is calm. After eating, allow yourself time to "let your food settle." Your meal will be digested much easier.

Over-Active Acid

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Ruth Yanor-McRae is a master herbalist, iridologist, speaker and writer from the Stony Plain, AB, area.

Source: alive #211, May 2000

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