Can you actually help move things along smoothly?
Digestion is a complicated business.
However, the good news is that it happens automatically anytime you consume food.
This means your body knows what to do, even without you thinking or controlling it.
When the process goes smoothly, you barely notice it.
In fact, we want food and nutrients to take the time they need for proper absorption!"
However, very generally, there are a variety of ways to support your digestion.
Here are some tips.
Choose Appropriate Portion Sizes
“Work on eating appropriate portion sizes for your body,” says Finkel.
Note that “needs can look different for everyone,” she says.
Incorporate Mindful Eating
“Eating mindfully can help improve digestion,” says Finkel.
Additionally, slowing down can help you increase your awareness of hunger and fullness and increase satisfaction from eating.
Each portion of the digestive tract has different functions.
Waiting 30 minutes and then going for a walk can also help.
Sitting in an upright position can also support faster gastric emptying before bed.
Digestion time can vary greatly depending on the makeup of the meal and the individual’s metabolism.
Liquids and soft foods tend to move faster than high-fat and high-fiber meals.
In general, larger meals and high-fat, high-protein or high-fiber meals take longer to digest.
However, certain medications, as well as diagnosable GI motility issues, also slow down digestion.
