It seems as though digestive health has come to the forefront of the wellness world in the last few years. Now more than ever, people are looking for ways to take control of their digestion. It can be confusing or overwhelming with dozens of mixed messages about what to eat for your digestive health. So what exactly are some of the best foods for digestion, and how can you incorporate them into your diet? We recommend starting with some of the foods listed below as your baseline. As you begin your digestive health journey, experiment with these food selections. Based on your unique preferences and digestive reactions, adjust accordingly. Over time, your digestive health may improve significantly.

The Best Foods for Your Digestion & Why

Yogurt and Kefir

Yogurt is undoubtedly your ally when it comes to digestion. Made from fermented milk, yogurt contains millions of friendly probiotics to keep your gut happy.

The same goes for kefir – it is a cultured dairy product that aids in healthy bacterial growth. Kefir also reduces the effects associated with lactose intolerance like bloating, cramping, or gaseousness.

If you’re going dairy-free, you can opt for coconut yogurt or kefir.

Papaya

The silky smooth and supple tropical fruit possesses a digestive enzyme called papain. Papayas will help your digestive system process protein fibers, and help you maintain healthy bowel movements. Papayas are equally as delicious as they are nourishing, so enjoy them regularly!

Avocado

This yummy superfood is packed with potassium. Potassium is an essential nutrient for healthy digestion, and one avocado alone contains 364 mg of potassium. Not only does avocado possess digestive superpowers, but it also is low in fructose.

Beets

Beets are an excellent source of fiber and are also rich in vitamin C, folate, manganese, and other essential nutrients. Additionally, beets promote healthy digestion by increasing the number of positive bacteria in the colon. Beets are wonderful cooked, raw, or incorporated into smoothies.

Lean Protein

Those with gut sensitivity can stick with lean proteins that are lower in fat content. Fat can upset the digestive process, and leaner proteins will therefore be easier to digest. Think chicken breast, turkey, salmon, or white fish. Pairing lean protein with whole grains and vegetables also makes for a completely gut-healthy meal!

Fermented Foods

There’s a reason nutritionists promote fermented foods for gut health. They are your best friends when it comes to healing digestive issues. Packed with probiotics, fermented food advocates for healthy bacterial growth and even prevents bad bacteria from forming. Kombucha, sauerkraut, sourdough bread, kimchi, kefir, and miso are some great examples of healthy fermented products.

Whole Grains

Choosing whole grains like brown rice or whole-wheat bread provides the gut with an excellent source of fiber. Opting for whole grains instead of refined or processed carbohydrates will create better gut flora. Whole grains even contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for the brain and gut alike.

Bone Broth

Warm, nourishing, filling, and tasty, bone broth is one of the best things you can consume for optimal digestive health. The gelatin found in bone broth will bind fluid in your digestive tract and improve symptoms of a leaky gut. You can make your own, or purchase pre-made bone broth and sip away.

Digestion 101: Make the Right Choice

The overall well-being of your digestion starts with making the right food choices. Z.E.N. Foods is here to support you in your digestive health journey. With farm-to-table, whole, and hand-crafted meals delivered straight to your door, you can achieve optimal gut health. We work closely with our clients to ensure that all of their nutritional needs are being met tenfold. To get a taste of what we offer, check out our sample menu. You can also speak with a Z.E.N consultant to get started today at (310) 205-9368.