As people age, they start to suffer from digestive problems, including constipation, indigestion, ulcers, and diverticulitis. This is due to a reduced digestive ability, as well as other age-related factors including tooth decay, gum disease, medications, and more. How do you keep your digestive tract healthy so you don’t suffer from discomfort and pain? Here are some tips on improving digestion as you age.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is incredibly important for the health of your digestive tract. Water as well as other fluids, such as juice, can help to prevent constipation by softening stools so they can pass through your body much more easily. You should drink eight glasses of water a day. Additionally, reduce or avoid consumption of tea and coffee, as the caffeine content within them can dehydrate you and worsen your digestion.
Eat Healthily
Overeating and overloading on unhealthy junk food can be taxing on your digestive system, especially if you’re not active. For example, you might feel pain and discomfort from indigestion or heartburn due to eating fatty foods. Make sure to watch your portion and reduce fatty foods so you can maintain a healthy weight and keep your digestive tract healthy. Try to avoid spicy food as well to avoid irritating your digestive tract.
Instead, you should consume lots of high-fiber foods such as seeds, nuts, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Try to get five or more servings of vegetables and fruits a day. This will make your digestion process smoother as fiber softens your stool and makes it easier to pass. It will also help to prevent diarrhea and maintain bowel health. You can also eat probiotics, such as yogurt, to enjoy better metabolism and healthy digestion. With a healthy diet, you’ll be able to boost your immune system too.
Stay Active
Staying active is a great way to ensure a healthy digestive system. Aerobic exercises, such as swimming, biking, or dancing can improve your blood circulation. This will not just improve your digestive processes, but it will also prevent high blood pressure and heart disease. Exercising regularly will also help you to stay in shape.
Reduce Stress Levels
High levels of stress can be terrible for your digestive system by increasing the production of gastric acid. Too much gastric acid will lead to indigestion as well as cause heartburn symptoms. In addition, stress can also result in digestive disorders such as irritable bowel disease and ulcers worsening. Try to schedule self-care and exercise since it will release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that will help you to feel better. Other methods of reducing stress include getting proper sleep, yoga, and meditation.
Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums
If your teeth and gum are in poor condition, you’ll have difficulty getting proper nutrition as chewing and eating will be uncomfortable and painful. If your food is not properly chewed, you’ll suffer from indigestion and your body will have difficulty absorbing the nutrients. You should take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing properly. Mouthwash can also help. Make sure to schedule regular dental appointments to take care of the health of your mouth.
