Are you suffering from digestive health issues such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, burping, heartburn, etc? As a decade-long IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) sufferer myself, I know how miserable it is. These symptoms can range from mildly uncomfortable to downright debilitating. I understand that fear of not wanting to leave the house because you’re afraid to not be near a bathroom. I had years of anxiety and panic attacks that went along with my IBS symptoms. I’ve had to run to the bathroom sooo many times that I felt like public restrooms were my second home. There were so many days where I truly thought I was literally going to shit my pants in public. Thankfully, those days are behind me now. I haven’t worried about having to run to the bathroom for a few years now and my anxiety is at an all-time low; especially considering I’m just starting my own nutrition practice. My IBS is not completely fixed yet, but it has dramatically improved.
In addition to following a paleo-style diet, I’ve compiled 15 “superfoods” for healing your digestive tract and taking your life back. Keep in mind that we are all different and there’s no one-size-fits-all diet; it takes trial and error to build your own personalized diet. The following foods are known to aid in healing the digestive tract:
- Bone Broth: Bone broth is loaded with minerals, gelatin, and collagen which help to repair the GI lining. (It’s also great for skin, joint, and immune health) For more on bone broth, click here.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar lowers the pH of the stomach, making it more acidic. In order to properly breakdown and digest our food we need adequate stomach acid. To learn more about why stomach acid is so important click here.
- Dandelion Root: Dandelion root is great for the liver and gallbladder. It increases the production and flow of bile from the gallbladder, and releases stored bile to aid in fat digestion. It also contains inulin, which assists in the growth of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium (aka probiotics) for a healthy gut flora. Dandelion root also helps with liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice.
- Ginger: Ginger relieves gas, soothes/calms the digestive tract, stimulates digestion, and is anti-inflammatory.
- Beets: Beets support liver and gallbladder function due to their high levels of folate and manganese.
- Garlic: Garlic is a natural anti-parasitic.
- Apple/Beet/Carrot/Lemon Juice: Assist in digestion & promote liver and gallbladder health.
- Fennel: Fennel is an intestinal antispasmodic and contains the anti-cancer compound, coumarin. It relieves gas, stimulates digestion, and is a natural pain reliever. It’s also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and trace minerals.
- Pineapple: Pineapple contains bromelain which helps breakdown proteins and is an anti-inflammatory enzyme. It’s especially good for the small intestine and pancreas.
- Lemon Water: Drink warm or room temperature lemon water, NOT cold. Lemon water helps stimulate stomach acid production.
- Cabbage Juice: Cabbage juice is helpful for healing stomach and duodenal ulcers. It’s also loaded with sulfur, which is great for killing parasites.
- Chard/Kale/Spinach: The fiber content helps moves bowels along and prevents constipation (along with adequate hydration).
- Jerusalem Artichokes: Jerusalem artichokes contain inulin for a healthy gut flora.
- Psyllium Husk: Psyllium husk contains lots of fiber which helps to move bowels along and prevent/relieve constipation.
- Radish: Radishes contain sulfur and help to remove gallstones by releasing bile. They’re also loaded with vitamin C, which can be used as a laxative.
- Papaya: Papaya contains an enzyme, called papain, that helps with protein digestion and helps to get rid of parasites and intestinal worms. It’s most potent in under ripe papayas and their seeds.
Was this information useful for you? Let me know in the comments!
See Also:
The Truth About Stomach Acid
The Problem With Grains (& how to properly consume them)
Stress Got You Down?
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