Nutrition, food or nourishment is the supply of important nutrients from food to cells and organisms, to support life.

The digestive system in the body breaks down the food we eat, turning it into the nutrients the body needs. Neglecting digestive health can cause digestive problems and difficulty absorbing those nutrients from food.

There are many simple things that anyone can do to help a digestive tract such as:

• Eat high-fiber foods.

• Limit high-fat foods.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Avoid smoking, excess alcohol and caffeine.

• Exercise regularly and

• Manage stress

When all of the above is not enough, we can turn to nutrition to help a digestive system even more effectively. All of the above (and the following) also play an important role in healthy weight loss or body weight maintenance.

Ginger herb: “Since low gastric motility has been associated with digestive symptoms for which ginger is frequently used, if ginger improves the movement of food through the upper digestive tract in people with digestive problems, this could help explain how it exerts its benefits,” said Dr. Rebecca Chollet, a naturopathic physician practicing in New Hampshire and Vermont. It can be taken as a tea (made by simmering chopped ginger root in a covered pot), tincture , spice or in capsules.

Probiotics: Years ago, scientists discovered and demonstrated that taking certain “friendly” bacteria could help clear up digestive problems like gas, bloating, and indigestion. Later, new research revealed the role of different strains of beneficial bacteria in optimal health, supporting important biological functions, including assisting with digestion, keeping other harmful bacteria at bay, and boosting the immune system. Probiotics are readily available and can be taken in capsule, liquid, powder, or tablet form.

Raw foods – Because they are rich in enzymes, necessary for the functioning of the digestive system. Heating and processing food causes enzymes to break down quickly.

Some of the most common digestive enzyme supplements: amylase, bromelain, HCL (hydrochloric acid), lactase, lipase, ox bile, pancreatin, papain, pepsin, protease.