Sluggish digestion, slow metabolism, and weight gain are all signs of an unhealthy body, but the good news is that by improving digestive efficiency through diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplements, you can effectively shed extra fat and support overall health.
Good digestion leads to better health
Good digestion is at the very center of our core health. It sets the foundation for health, happiness, and well-being. Optimizing digestion improves our immune system, hormone balance, mental and emotional health.
Nutrients and metabolism
When your digestive system is functioning optimally, it breaks down food properly, absorbs the right nutrients and eliminates waste. However, we need energy to perform these functions, and this energy comes from the nutrients we consume.
Unhealthy dietary habits, such as eating too many processed foods, hinder our digestive system by depleting enzymes, probiotics, and other factors critical for strong digestion. Refined sugars, for example, can spike blood glucose and insulin, leading to inflammation and slow metabolism.
On the other hand, a nutritious diet has a direct relationship with a healthy body weight. Nutritious foods give our digestive system the building blocks it needs to function efficiently.
Mitochondria and digestion
Our cellular engines, known as mitochondria, create energy for the body and play an essential role in our metabolism and digestion. When our mitochondria are inefficient, we store glucose as fat.
Herbs and supplements for better digestion and metabolism
Certain nutrients, herbs, and spices aid digestion and increase metabolism by promoting mitochondrial function and nutrient breakdown. Some of the most effective ones include:
- Black pepper and other spices: These stimulate the production of digestive enzymes for better food breakdown. Black pepper has been found to block the formation of fat cells, helping to control weight.
- Probiotics: These friendly bacteria help break down food into essential nutrients and efficiently eliminate waste. Research has shown that one probiotic species, Lactobacillus gasseri, reduces visceral fat (the fat around your midsection) by up to 9% after three months.
- Medicinal mushrooms: Hericium, maitake, and poria mushrooms support nutrient absorption and mitochondrial energy.
- Cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger: These herbs improve digestive capacity, support metabolism, and reduce inflammation.
- Chromium polynicotinate: This essential trace element supports energy production, fat metabolism, and digestion.
Stress relief and healthy habits for better digestion
Taking a holistic approach to supporting digestion and metabolism includes regular exercise, stress relief, and good eating habits. Don’t skip breakfast, as it can throw your metabolism out of balance and cause extra fat storage. Practice thorough chewing and eating at a relaxed pace to better break down food, absorb nutrients, and avoid overeating.
With improved digestive function, you will experience increased energy, less bloating, more efficient elimination, and better overall well-being.
