Eat more fibre

Fibre helps to maintain regular bowel movements by adding bulk to stools and drawing water into the digestive tract, says nutritionalist Kate Butler from Holland & Barrett. It also stimulates the nerves in the intestine, causing contractions of the colon that help to move waste through quickly.

Hit the gym

Increased blood flow results in increased oxygen circulation in the whole body. This in turn improves cell efficiency in the digestive system.

Drink more water

It’s a fact that drinking more water is one of the quickest ways to improve health, so do it!

Cut back on alcohol

Drinking more than two units of alcohol a day will expand your waistline and wreak havok on your digestive system. Research has found that excessive alcohol impairs muscle movement in the small and large intestines. Bloating, stomach aches and diarrhoea are your body’s way of telling you to lay off the liquor.

Grow some good bacteria

Prebiotics stimulate good bacteria in the colon and prevent bad bacteria from taking a hold. A study in the Journal Of Clinical Gastroenterology found that foods rich in prebiotics such as artichokes lead to the increased growth of gut good guy lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Enliven your liver

Your liver keeps your body healthy by breaking down toxic substances such as caffeine, alcohol and additives. Nutritionalist Lucy-Ann Prideaux says ‘If your liver isn’t functioning properly, your ability to process and excrete these toxins is reduced.’ Keep it working smoothly with a diet full of whole foods, fruit and vegetables.

Thanks,