Conscious Digestion

It is not just what we eat but how our bodies metabolize (digest, absorb and assimilate) vital nutrients from our food that nourishes us.

When we are experiencing stress, our body is in a constant state of fight or flight, shutting down digestion. Because of this stress, food is incompletely digested. This can lead to allergies, abdominal discomforts, bloating, indigestion and flatulence. Fewer nutrients are absorbed for vital metabolic functions such as tissue repair and brain function. We can enhance our digestion quite easily with a little conscious effort.

  • Anticipation of food cues the nervous system to switch on digestion - secreting saliva in the mouth and hydrochloric acid in the stomach, prepares the pancreas and gall bladder and activates peristalsis (muscle contractions) to efficiently move food through the intestines.
  • Experience the textures and the tastes - sweet, salty, sour, bitter and pungent each stimulate different organs and functions in the body. i.e. historically bitter herbs have been used to revitalise a sluggish liver.
  • Chew thoroughly - chewing incorporates enzyme rich saliva to assist with digestion. It also begins the break down of food for better nutrient absorption.
  • Limit fluids during meals - especially ice cold, as they can dilute digestive juices. If you must drink something while eating sip a small glass of warm water (or wine).
  • Listen to your body- stop eating when you feel satisfied. Over eating kills digestion, it is like putting a large log on the fire.
  • Eat small nutrient dense meals - make an event of eating, sit down, relax and take your time. Sit for a moment after eating and enjoy the feeling of being nourished.

  

Foods and herbs to aid digestion

  • Lemon, ginger and cayenne stimulate stomach juices to break down protein.
  • Ginger, cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon and turmeric added to meals assist digestion and reduce gas.
  • Bitter tasting foods such as endive, dandelion greens, artichokes and parsley stimulate bile secretion, essential for fat metabolism.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice in warm water or a tablespoon of cider vinegar before meals stimulates stomach acid for protein digestion.
  • Ginger, peppermint and licorice tea soothe digestion. Make a brew after a heavy meal to ease digestion.