What really is digestion? Many of us have experienced indigestion or at least something we call indigestion. Digestion is the process of converting the food we eat into substances that the body can use at the cellular level. Our bodies use the food we eat for fuel. So, digestion is the process by which the body uses the food we eat as raw materials as the fuel needed to repair and build new tissue.
For many people today, eating or after eating is not always a pleasant experience. These people suffer from digestive disorders. There are many others who are suffering but do not know that the root of the problem is in the digestive system. Poor digestion affects energy, healing and repair, and general well-being. Our bodies cannot use the nutrients in the food we eat unless it is properly digested. Take for example lunch time. This is you? You are short on time and stop at a fast food restaurant. Eat fast… maybe even while driving so you can get back to work or to get to your next appointment. It should come as no surprise that a few hours later you feel sluggish, bloated, or have heartburn. Eating processed foods under stress is a recipe for digestive system malfunction.
How to know if you have a digestive problem? Some of the symptoms of the inability to properly digest food can be:
- excessive belching
- Gas
- occasional diarrhea
- Constipation
- swelling
- Acidity
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, what can you do to correct the problem instead of just masking the symptom? The first thing you can do is chew your food well (each bite should be chewed about 20 times before swallowing). Digestion begins in the mouth. Then take your time to eat and relax… stress while eating makes the digestive process difficult. Also, don’t wash your food down with liquids. Store drinks for 30 minutes before or up to 2 hours after a meal. Liquids during a meal can dilute the acid (digestive juices) needed to break down food in the stomach. Lastly, eat smaller meals… Putting too much food in your stomach overloads your entire digestive system.
If you still suffer from chronic digestive problems, stop taking antacids and see someone who specializes in digestion and nutrition to help you find the cause of your problem.