10 foods to boost your digestion

Healthy digestion is a cornerstone of good health but what is the key to good gut health? Bacteria – millions of which inhabit the digestive tract breaking down food for digestion, helping to propel food through the digestive tract and providing protection against harmful invading organisms.

Foods that are high in fibre, rich in nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, or that contain live probiotics, will encourage the growth of health-promoting bacteria colonies and support overall equilibrium balance in the digestive tract.

Here are 10 foods that can promote good gut health.

1 Old-fashioned sauerkraut

As cabbage is shredded, salted and left to ferment for a period of time, acid-loving bacterial species start to multiply and grow. During this process, total dietary fibre increases, as does the vitamin C, and B vitamin content. Look for brands that are unpasteurised and don't contain vinegar (which inhibits fermentation). Alternatively, make your own pickled vegetables.

2. Chia seeds

Chia seeds are among the highest plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants and fibre. The fibre found in chia seeds is 80 per cent insoluble meaning it does not dissolve in water and provides roughage as it passes through your digestive tract, to help keep you regular.

3. A handful of berries

Berries are an excellent food for digestive health. They provide a good source of fibre, antioxidants, and polyphenols, which can selectively favour beneficial colonies of bacteria in the digestive tract.

4. Bone broth

Bone broth has long been considered a traditional remedy for soothing digestive complaints and improving ailments. An article appearing in a 1938 medical journal on the benefits of gelatin claimed "the most important piece of equipment in any kitchen, is the stockpot". and sooth gastric inflammation.

5. Seaweed

Seaweed is rich in trace minerals and is a good source of fibre. Brown varieties also contain a high fibre compound known as alginate. Look for seaweed found in the kelp family (kombu, sea palm and wakame).

6. Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables (kale, cabbage, broccoli and silverbeet, to name just a few) are excellent foods for gut health; they provide various phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals, as well as a good source of fibre. Phytonutrients can benefit the gut by increasing the balance of good bacteria and also contain anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

7. Sour-tasting yoghurt

Yoghurt should always taste sour, not sweet. The sourness is a reflection of the lactic-acid bacteria that have developed during the fermentation process in the milk.

8. Grandma's chicken soup

There is nothing quite as nourishing as a bowl of "Jewish Penicillin" or "Mama's Perfume" for a stomach ache, cold or flu. ), it also contains well-cooked, easily digestible vegetables and plenty of fluid, which helps hydration.

9. Oily fish

Oily fish – such as salmon, sardines and mackerel are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA, and DOHA. These fatty acids can play a vital role in healthy bowel function. They can work to lubricate the digestive tract and keep digestion flowing smoothly. They can also help to reduce inflammation and strengthen the intestinal lining, which can help to protect against gastrointestinal diseases.

10. Fresh ginger

Ginger is a traditional spice, revered throughout Asia for its ability to relieve gas and reduce abdominal bloating. In herbal medicine, it is considered to be an "intestinal spasmolytic" – in other words, a substance that can relax and sooth the digestive tract.