lifestyle and diet tips

food and drink

Many gastric episodes, including heartburn, stomach-ache and nausea, can be traced back to what we eat and drink. Everyone’s constitution is different, so everyone reacts in different ways, but here are a few general guidelines to follow:

• Try to cut down on alcohol – it can affect the balance of your system
• Try to cut down on too much starch, fatty foods and red meat – these can all be hard work for your digestive system to break down
• Aim to get those five fruits and vegetables every day – a smoothie can count as one
• Cut down on sugar and salt
• Drink plenty of water – aim for at least eight glasses a day – rather than tea, coffee and fizzy drinks
• Finally – try and get plenty of fibre into your diet, as this will help your digestion work smoothly
• Keeping a food diary can be an effective way to monitor what you eat and help you to identify any foods that may trigger your symptoms

exercise

The better shape your body is in, the healthier your digestive system is likely to be. Carrying too much weight can put an extra burden on your organs, and may show your diet is not that great either. So figure out an exercise routine and stick to it. You should aim for at least three 30-minute sessions of moderate exercise per week. Try walking, swimming, jogging, cycling, join a gym or take exercise classes. You’ll soon feel the effects – and so will your digestive system.

lifestyle

Given the busy lives that so many of us lead, the odd stomach upset may seem inevitable. Well it doesn’t have to be. Pay attention to your body and its natural rhythms. Try and eat small meals at regular times – don’t skip breakfast, for instance. And when you do eat, take your time – give yourself a chance to chew your food properly, don’t just bolt it down. Look at your work life balance to try and reduce stress – see if you can work from home sometimes, for instance, to save on commuting. Be good to your body – and it will be good to you.