10 diet tips for digestive problems
Most women have probably suffered with digestive problems at some point throughout their life and most will agree that it is an uncomfortable condition, and one that needs to be resolved before it causes too much disruption to daily life. Fortunately, for most, it won’t happen too regularly, and it is easy to treat. However, the bad news is that once a woman hits the inevitable stage in life known as menopause, digestive problems are likely to become more common. Digestive problems come in an array of forms during menopause, but all can be triggered by the imbalance of hormones.
So, how can you prevent these digestive problems from arising in the first place? There are various ways of treating an imbalance of hormones in menopause, but the most important step to take is to eat the right foods in the first place. By doing this you will be preventing further hormone imbalance, and therefore preventing the likelihood of more digestive problems.
10 tips about what foods to eat and what foods to avoid to prevent digestive problems
Eating certain foods and avoiding others can be imperative to preventing future digestive problems. All food begins in the mouth, passes into the stomach, enters the small intestine and finally waits in the large intestine and colon until it is expelled as feces. Estrogen and progesterone help to regulate this complex process so when levels of these hormones fall the system can dysfunction, causing anything from cramps and gas to constipation or diarrhea. What foods will encourage the digestive system to function properly? Read on for diet tips, although be aware that advice may vary for the different problems.
Drink plenty of water
Hydration is essential for good digestion because it discourages water retention which can cause bloating. Drink 8 to 10 glasses a day.
Consider your fiber intake
Fiber encourages healthy digestion but should be eaten in moderation. It will add bulk to stool allowing them to move quickly, but eating too much can cause gas. Don’t overdo your bean consumption. They contain an indigestible sugar.
Eat more rice
Rice doesn’t produce any gas and is brilliant for digestion. Swap potatoes for wholegrain rice.
Cook with herbs
Herbs such as thyme, sage and fennel seeds are good for digestion. Add these for flavor instead of salt which can cause bloating.
Eat fruit and veg (but in sensible proportion)
Without a doubt, fruit and vegetables are vital for your diet, and can help reduce digestive problems because of their soluble fiber. But, don’t eat in excess, especially cruciferous vegetables like cabbage that cause gas. Eating raw vegetables is always better you.
Avoid processed foods and fast-food
These foods are high in both salt and sugar which hinder your digestive system if eaten too much. They are considered bad for all aspects of your health so should just be avoided as much as possible. You will feel much healthier.
Be careful about dairy
Dairy is, of course, an important part of your diet but be careful not to consume too much. You may be suffering with lactose intolerance which makes it difficult for the digestive system to work efficiently, triggering intestinal diseases. Limit your consumption to see if this makes a difference. Maybe try alternatives like soy milk which will also aid hormone rebalance.
Avoid citrus
Citrus fruits or drinks are high in acid which can cause digestive problems. Go easy on the consumption of citrus fruits like orange, lemon and grapefruit.
Cut back on spicy food
Spicy food can trigger heartburn so you should cut down the amount of spicy food you eat if you want to avoid future problems.
Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
Unfortunately, these two types of drink can have a very negative impact on your digestive system so you should try to cut down. Doing this will also help to rebalance your hormones which will make the chances of suffering with digestive problems, or any menopausal symptom, less likely. The sacrifice will be worth it.
Recommendation
Making the right lifestyle choices will help you alleviate any digestive problems you have suffered with during menopause. Eat a well balanced and healthy diet, exercise regularly and find the time to de-stress. You will find that a lot of the symptoms you suffer with are reduced in severity. Follow this link about the other changes you can make to your lifestyle for treating menopausal digestive problems.
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How to Choose Fiber-Packed Foods at the Grocery Store
Yoga for Your Constipation
How Fiber Can Cure Your Constipation during Menopause