Digestive therapy includes methods that improve digestion as a means of promoting regular, normal bowel movements and prevention of constipation. Digestive health is very important to quality of life and prevention of health issues. Appropriately managing stress, participating in exercise and eating correctly are key elements of digestive therapy.
Diet for Improved Digestion
Appropriate diet choices improve digestive health. Diets low in fiber, high in protein and low in carbohydrates are particularly bad for digestion as they promote constipation. Diets high in fiber with inclusion of a variety of foods are recommended for digestive improvement. Fiber intakes of 25 to 35 g is recommended by the Harvard School of Public Health. Fiber does not complete the entire picture as adequate fluids are needed at a minimum of 2 liters daily. For people who struggle with constipation despite fiber and fluids, morning coffee is recommended since coffee is a colonic stimulant, according to the book "Gut Insight: Probiotics and Prebiotics for Digestive Health" by Ann Hattner. Other liquids that are beneficial to relieving constipation are plum juice, prune juice and pear juice.
Exercise Benefits to Digestion
Exercise is beneficial for digestion in some people, especially in comparison to low levels of activity. Studies are few on exercise and digestion, and the ones completed have shown mixed results. A study in the December 1989 "Gastroenterology" journal explains that exercise slowed digestion for nine people and improved digestion for five other people. In conjunction with other recommendations for improved digestion in addition to the array of benefits surrounding exercise itself, it is difficult to discourage exercise as a part of therapy for improving digestion.
Stress and Digestion
Depending on the type of stress dictates the effects seen on digestion. Some types of stress, such as public speaking, nervous situations and school exams, can actually increase transit time and contribute to diarrhea rather than constipation, explains the National Digestive Disease Clearinghouse. However, other stressful situations cause one to overlook the sensation of needing to have a bowel movement, which in turn contributes to constipation. These are types of stress that need to be dealt with ahead of time and effectively in order to promote digestive health. Dealing with stress can involve yoga, talk therapy, massage therapy and taking breaks or vacation to relieve stress.
Identification of Triggers
Beyond diet, stress and exercise, other things can trigger constipation, which may be out of your control. Triggers of constipation may include age, sex, genes, digestive enzymes, food intolerances and gastrointestinal conditions, medications and personality, explains "Today's Dietitian." In this case, a dietitian can assist with making individualized diet and lifestyle recommendations to assist with improving digestive health.
