Our digestive system affects the well-being of every single cell in our bodies. And, if you suffer from heartburn, constipation, pain in the intestines, gas or diarrhoea – these symptoms show that your digestive system is crying out for help! As well as being uncomfortable, a poorly working digestion leads to tiredness, poor sleep, low moods, and greasy or dry skin problems. Do you regularly consume grains, vegetable oils, processed foods, caffeine, soda and alcohol? Truth be told, these are a few of the worst foods for our digestive tract. They cause inflammation, destroy the gut lining, offload toxins and feed the microbes in our digestive systems that lead to a leaky and painful gut.

A healthy digestion will contribute to boosted energy levels, gorgeous skin, happiness, and rejuvenating sleep! Simply eliminate the unhealthy, gut destroying food from your diet and begin introducing a few or all of the foods stated below, and your gut health will flourish!

1. Kale

Another reason why we love kale is for its fiber content. Its rich source of fiber boosts digestion and promotes the elimination of toxins in the digestive tract. Reap in the health benefits of kale by eating this Vegan Kale Waldorf Salad, this comforting Kale and Mushroom Gratin, or this super sweet Strawberry + Kale Smoothie!  

2. Chia Seeds

An amazing source of fiber, protein and minerals, chia seeds are perfect for decreasing cholesterol, boosting bowel function and reducing inflammation in the body. You will find 10 grams of fiber in just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds – a third of your recommended daily intake! Load up your fiber and protein at breakfast by soaking chia seeds overnight in your favorite nut milk, you can add so many great tastes and flavors like this Banana + Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding and this funky Tropical Coconut and Passionfruit Chia Pudding.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is chock full of acetic acid, an acid which increases your digestions ability to absorb those all-important vitamins and minerals, particularly, the absorption of calcium. Apple cider vinegar also has the ability to inhibit digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates into sugar, which prevents our blood sugar from spiking after a meal – the perfect concoction for diabetics and for those who are insulin resistant.

One of the best ways to take apple cider vinegar is by drinking a tonic after meals. Mix one part apple cider vinegar to two parts water, and drink! The taste will take a lot of getting used to at first, but, after a while, you will grow to love it. You can also add apple cider vinegar to make your salad dressings tangy and super nutritious.

4. Coconut Oil

Do you suffer with bloating after meals? Or maybe, you feel as if your body doesn’t digest food that well? Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids which have excellent anti-microbial properties which will ease the effect of candida, toxins, bacteria, or parasites that have a bad effect on your digestive system. Coconut oil will also promote the absorption of nutrients from our food, boost our metabolism and energy levels, too. Cooking with coconut oil will help; try replacing your usual cooking oil or butter with coconut oil!

5. Zucchini

Zucchini is incredibly high in fiber, which means it cleanses the digestive tract and stops toxins from embedding into the colon. And, as zucchini has a high water content, it makes the vegetable super hydrating!

6. Avocado

A rich source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats – eating an avocado is an amazing way to cleanse your digestive system. In just one avocado you will find 54 percent of your recommended allowance of fiber that will look after your colon. Avocados’ high levels of potassium and magnesium will prevent constipation by attracting water into your digestive system.

Eating to improve your digestive health doesn’t have to be difficult. Try eliminating the unhealthy foods from your diet one by one, and replacing them with healthy, nutritious ones. And, within no time, you will feel the benefits of a fully-functioning happy gut!

Image source: Kale and Mushroom Gratin