2017 is here, and with it, a whole slew of New Year's resolutions. Yay but nay. Don’t get me wrong, I am all about self-improvement, goals and the implementation of better habits.
What I’m not about is being hard on yourself for failing to achieve your unrealistically high expectations within the short amount of time you’ve allowed yourself.
What if your SOLE resolution for this year was simple - better digestion. It doesn’t have to be huge, but maybe small and subtle changes that result in you feeling a little leaner on a day to day basis, NOT because you lost weight (although if you did high-five), but because you’re just not filled with as much gas .
So here are your 5 quick-read tips that could make a world of difference.
1) CHEW YOUR FRIGGIN FOOD.
A lot of people don’t realize that carbohydrates (fruits, veg, grains, breads, etc.) start their digestion in the mouth! If you miss this step, it means more fermenting and gas down the chain of digestion. Chew until your food is a liquid, then swallow.
BONUS - you may also start eating less.
2) Start incorporating Apple Cider Vinegar Daily
I say this a lot, but using organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar daily can be a game changer for digestion as well as cravings. One shot (1 tbsp. ACV with water) following each meal will spark digestion, boost liver health and improve skin. Try at least 2 - 3 times per day.
3) Take a probiotic daily
Take with food. You’ve heard this is good for you long enough; it really does help.
4) If you’re prone to bloating, eat fruit on its own.
This is a food-combining principle. The Cole’s Notes is that fruit digests quickly compared to other food. Eat fruit either 30 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after to avoid the fruit sitting around in your gut fermenting, waiting for the other food to digest.
5) Buy a Squatty Potty
Pooping is part of the digestion process too. The affordable addition of a Squatty Potty (or low stool) to your toilet will put you in the more natural squat position resulting in a better, more efficient poop - and waste won’t sit in your colon longer than it should!
And DONE - 5 Things you can easily do this year.
To a happy tummy in 2017!