Every time you eat, your body works hard to break down food so that you get the nutrients necessary to stay energized and support overall health. But sometimes, the digestive process experience complications, causing uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and constipation. Fortunately, there are several tasks you can do to prevent symptoms like these from ever occurring. Providing preventive care services in Mid-Willamette Valley, OR, Santiam Hospital highlights three important ways to change your nutritional habits and improve digestive health.

Preventive Care Tips to Help Your Gut 

1. Fine-tune Your Fiber Intake

Fiber is a substance that occurs naturally in plants and is found in a variety of foods—such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Fiber itself cannot be broken down by the human body, but it still plays an important role throughout the digestive processes.

Regular fiber consumption keeps food moving through the digestive tract at a normal pace. Without enough of it, people experience constipation and irregular bowel movements. Fiber also slows down the rate at which the body absorbs nutrients from food. As a result, it stabilizes sugar absorption, which in turn, prevents blood sugar spikes.

2. Discover the Good Side of Bacteria

People often assume bacteria are bad, but there are plenty of these microscopic organisms that help with digestion. Known as “probiotics,” good bacteria support a healthy gut and improve digestive processes. For example, Harvard Medical School recognizes probiotic consumption as a good way to support preventive care by improving nutrient absorption and enhancing the breakdown of fats and protein. Probiotics can be consumed as supplements but are also found naturally in foods like yogurt and tofu.

3. Be More Mindful During Meals

Today, most Americans lead a hectic lifestyle that can be detrimental to digestion. For example, eating too fast is a major cause of indigestion, while having meals at inconsistent times causes irregular digestive processes.

To help prevent health problems, set a mealtime schedule and stick to it as best as you can. Chewing slowly and focusing on the flavors gives your body more time to register feelings of fullness and reduce the risk of overeating.

Although following these tips will greatly improve digestion, there may be times when problems don’t ease up. If you’re experiencing unusual changes or troubling symptoms, the specialists at Santiam Hospital will help. Utilizing the latest tools and treatments, this primary care clinic offers the highest level of service to patients in Mid-Willamette Valley. This compassionate preventive care provider will address dietary concerns quickly and effectively to help you embrace a healthier you. Learn more about their comprehensive services online or call (503) 769-2175 to schedule an appointment.