Believe it or not, nutrition and digestive health go hand in hand. The makeup of your diet often triggers certain reactions in your digestive system. So, if you find that you’re experiencing digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, or general stomach discomfort, it may be time to take a hard look at your diet. With help from the family doctors at MediCenter in Kenai, AK, you’ll have the opportunity to examine your food choices and make dietary changes for the future.

In fact, here are four simple things you can do right now to boost your digestive health:

• Eat More Fruits & Vegetables: Plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, which is the key to keeping your digestive health in order. Foods that are rich in fiber not only keep you regular, they also help you feel satiated for longer periods of time.
• Drink Plenty Of Water: Achieving digestive balance requires adequate fluid intake. Liquids help break down food so your body absorbs the nutrients it needs to function. Staying hydrated also softens stool, which can prevent constipation.
• Learn To Manage Stress: When your stress levels are high, your digestive health suffers. High levels of emotional or psychological stress may trigger certain responses in the body. For instance, many individuals complain of abdominal pain during stressful events. To prevent this from happening, try to adopt relaxation and stress management techniques.
• Exercise Regularly: Exercising on a regular basis has a very positive impact on your digestive system. Regular physical activity can improve your digestive system’s efficiency as well as help you maintain a healthy weight.

To learn more about health and nutrition, contact MediCenter at (907) 283-9118. For more information about the services offered at this family medicine clinic, you can also visit their website.