We’re constantly bombarded with the importance of gut health and proper digestion from the time we wake up in the morning until our heads hit the pillow at night.

Yogurts, teas, supplements, vitamins, and special diets all claim to give you the world’s best digestive tract overnight. But what exactly is digestion and why is it so important?

These key questions “break down digestion” (pun intended).

 

What is digestion?

Digestion is the process of breaking down the food we eat into nutrients. These nutrients are then used in the body for various functions such as growth, energy, and cell repair. The body breaks down these nutrients from food and drink and metabolizes them into protein, fat, vitamins, and carbohydrates. Your digestive system consists of your salivary glands, mouth, esophagus, stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, intestine, colon, and rectum. Many people are surprised (and a little grossed out) when they learn that the act of chewing and breaking down food with teeth and saliva is the first step of digestion!

Why is digestion important?

Digestion is an incredibly important process necessary for sustaining life. Without it, our bodies wouldn't have the nutrients that are essential to function. No digestive systems means no bottomless mimosas at brunch or cheat meals! Not only is digestion one of the most crucial physical processes our body goes through, it’s also a profound ritual for your mind and spirit. Your digestive system processes your food but also your daily emotions and experiences. Our emotions and physical health are not separate, but very much intertwined with one another. It’s important to absorb not only healthy nutrients, but positive and healthy energies that contribute to overall mental health!

Why is digestion important for weight loss?

Now that you know a little more about digestion, it makes total sense that it’s the key for achieving your weight loss goals. Think about it, if you’re consuming foods that are difficult to break down or overeat, your digestion slows down and this waste becomes compacted in the body. This leads to feeling bloated, constipated, and just all around pretty lousy. Over time, this buildup leads to weight gain.

How can I improve my digestion?

Keeping your digestive system balanced and in harmony is simple but requires long-term commitment. Remember the phrase “you are what you eat?” This is especially true for the digestive system.

Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids to aid in digestion, and eat “whole” or “clean” foods that are easier for the digestive system to break down and absorb.

Eat sweets: Here’s another pro-tip: satisfy your sweet tooth! Smart sweets such as dark chocolate have a knack for harmonizing your mind and body. Your body will love the antioxidants in high-quality dark chocolate, and your mind will feel satisfied and not deprived of all that chocolate-y goodness.

Increase physical activity: Exercise burns calories, and gets your digestive tract moving along, leading to more frequent…elimination. More elimination, more weight loss! (Gross, but true.)

Fiber: Fiber, fiber, fiber. Loading up on dietary fiber is the key to successful elimination and keeping your digestive system happy and healthy. Aim to eat between 25-40 grams of fiber each day for the utmost benefits.

Supplements: To keep your digestive system a well-oiled  and maintained machine, it’s crucial to take a daily supplement to give your body the fuel and nutrients it needs. Nutrii ORGANIC Premium Super Greens + Digestion is packed with organic superfoods, probiotics, and enzymes that reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion. Now available in a delicious, easy to drink lemon and mint flavor.