Stomach Pain, Indigestion, and Constipation, Oh My!

How we eat can matter as much as what we eat.  That’s a big statement, but it is true.

In a world where our schedules are packed full of things to do and places to go, nutrition can often look like eating on the run, fast convenience foods gulped down on our way out the door and on to the next activity. This dysfunctional way of eating can lead to dysfunction in our digestion. 

Digestion starts in the brain. When you see a juicy piece of fruit and smell it’s sweetness, your mouth begins to salivate. This saliva has digestive enzymes that help to break down carbohydrates. What happens when we stuff food in our mouth, without thinking about it, or even properly chewing it? We miss the first stage of digestion. The body then has to work harder to break down your food to extract all the nutrients from it. 

Simply slowing down, carving out 5 extra minutes to sit and eat can have profound benefits.

Here is my challenge for you: Every meal you eat today, I want you to sit down and take three deep clearing breaths before starting to eat. Feel how your body relaxes. Try to maintain that relaxation as you eat your meal. Taste your food, chew your for. Be grateful for the meal nourishing your body, then let me know what you noticed. Did your afternoon burps go away? Did you feel the difference in your body before and after your meal?

Are you interested in more big and small changes that can cultivate wellness?  Join our Greenhouse family, we’re ready to get started.