Post date: 27.12.2010 9:22 AM

“We are what we eat.”

This is one phrase most of us are familiar with. However, this statement doesn’t give the complete picture. To be effective, the above statement needs to be elaborated upon a little. That is, we are what we eat and what we absorb.

You may eat nutrient-rich diets or take food supplements, but they may fail to make you healthier if essential nutrients are not being absorbed properly into your bloodstream.

In short, to maintain good health, you need nutrient-rich foods and a healthy digestive system.

Different nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, and proteins require different conditions to be absorbed properly into our bloodstream. Here’s a look at some methods that help you absorb essential nutrients:

Iron – A little meat helps in the absorption of iron, while caffeine obstructs the absorption of iron. That is why you shouldn’t drink too much coffee when you are following an iron-rich diet.

Amino Acids - They should be taken on an empty stomach.

Vitamin A, E, and K - Fat helps in the absorption of these essential vitamins.

Calcium - Avoid taking calcium with iron supplements.

Chromium - Do not take antacids.

B Vitamins – Avoid alcohol intake if you are taking Vitamin B supplements.

Five tips to improve digestion naturally

Shared below are five tips that help in improving digestion:

Don’t drink water during meals

It is necessary that you drink lots of water daily. However, gulping down too much water just before or during meals is counterproductive. Water intake during meals weakens the digestive system, and that is why you should restrict your water consumption to only a few small sips while having a meal. Ideally, you should not drink water 15-20 minutes before a meal and 60 minutes after consuming food.

Eat natural and wholesome foods

Avoid eating foods that are laced with preservatives or chemicals. Instead, eat whole and natural foods. This will allow your digestive system to focus only on absorbing nutrients rather than doing the dual job of eliminating harmful chemicals and then absorbing whatever nutrients are left behind.

Eat some raw foods daily

Include raw foods in your diet, as they provide natural enzymes and essential nutrients which may get denaturized by heat.

Increase your intake of good bacteria

Many of us think that all bacteria are harmful, but this is not the case. Some bacteria such as Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophillus are probiotic or ‘good’ bacteri since they boost intestinal health.

Avoid Stress

Stress doesn’t augur well for your digestive system. Stress cuts off blood circulation to the digestive tract and weakens the ability of your body to utilize the nutrients you eat properly. In case you suffer from weak digestion, it is a good idea to spend a few minutes daily doing exercises that promote relaxation.