The digestive system plays a crucial role in breaking down foods that are consumed on a daily basis into nutrients through a process known as digestion, which allows the body to absorb these nutrients to carry out its core functions.

The digestive system consists of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract (the mouth, the oesophagus, the stomach, small intestines, and the anus) and other organs such as the liver, tongue, pancreas and gallbladder.

When the digestive system is not able to carry out its core functions this may result in health complications such as bloating, cramping, heartburn, fatigue, constipation and diarrhea.

Each year, World Digestive Health Day is observed on May 29 globally to spread awareness of the importance of good digestive health and promote healthy habits among individuals to boost their digestive health.

This year, World Digestive Health Day is being championed under the theme “Your Digestive Health: A Healthy Gut From the Start,” which aims to educate individuals on how to make better decisions about their digestive health.

Ways to maintain a healthy digestive system

Eat a balanced diet

An important step in maintaining a healthy digestive system includes eating foods from the five food groups which include fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains and dairy products.

According to an article published by John Hopkins Medicine titled Your Digestive System: 5 Ways to Support Gut Health, other foods that build a healthy digestive system include kefir (a fermented milk drink that’s similar to yogurt and is rich in probiotics) and other fermented or pickled foods (such as kimchi, sauerkraut and pickled ginger).

Eat on time

While it is important to maintain a healthy diet that is rich in nutrients, it is equally important to eat on time to promote regular digestion.

Eating at least three meals per day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) helps to sustain the metabolism rate in the body, a process by which the body converts food into energy. It is also important to not skip meals as this will lower the body’s metabolism.

Hydrate

Drinking adequate fluids can help to keep you hydrated throughout the day while assisting the kidney and the bladder to carry out their core functions which are to flush toxins from the body.

It is recommended that women consume 11 glasses of water per day and 15 cups for men to replace the fluids lost from the body through perspiration.

Exercise

Participating in regular physical activity is also a great way to promote good heart health to increase the blood flow around the body.

Medical professionals recommend regular physical activity because it helps to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Exercise also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which is a great way to relax after a hectic day.

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