For many years, I have been struggling with digestion issues – I would constantly feel bloated after meals to the extent that if I had an important occasion coming along, I would try to limit my food intake as much as possible. I tried every “Googleable hack” to get rid of the bloat such as cutting carbohydrates, taking probiotics (which are great for you), and carrying a bottle of water with me at all times… and guess what? I’m still suffering from digestion problems.
One unpopular tip I have heard from a health expert is what’s called “mindful eating”. You have probably heard the term “mindful” plenty of times till now because of how increasingly popular the wellness niche is becoming – and bloggers and preaching mindfulness and becoming more present. But, how does this concept apply when it comes to food?
At its core, mindfulness means that you’re in touch with the present moment. You’re present and aware. Mindful eating is what reconnects us human beings to our hunger cues, which we’re born with. Our bodies have built-in mechanisms to help us know when we have had enough food, but it’s our habits that have swept us away from the superpowers we’re naturally born with.
One of the many habits that disconnects us from our hunger cues that the majority of us do is eating while watching TV. A few minutes in, and you find yourself with an empty plate wondering where all the food went and why the heck is your stomach growling? That’s because you have been disconnected from your hunger signals, which leads to overeating and upsetting your stomach.
But, no worries, you’re not alone. We have all been there, done that. There’s still hope to get back what you have lost and reconnect with your naturally built-in hunger cues. Like with everything else, practice will get you where you want to be – a mindful eating state of mind. Every meal you eat with intention, with mindfulness, brings you a step closer to a present state of mind – and a happier digestive system.
But what are other facts that affect digestion?
Don’t get me wrong. Of course, mindful eating isn’t the only thing that affects our digestive system. There are many other factors that as gut health, our microbiome, and the food we eat. If you have been suffering from digestion problems for some time, you should consult with a specialist. Mindful eating is an underrated part of the healthy digestion equation that plays a huge role – among other things.
One of the major connections there is to our digestive system is our nervous system. Both are highly interrelated, and why when you’re feeling stressed, you’ll more likely experience digestive problems and an upset stomach even if you have been eating well. When you’re relaxed and not in survival mode (flight or fight mode), your digestive system is at its peak – your gut is flowing in its natural state.
Unlike when you’re stressed or have a dysregulated nervous system. Because when this happens, your nervous system takes over and drives things, leading to slower digestion. That’s when mindful eating comes to save the day. Eating mindfully is just as critical for your digestive health as the nutrients you give to your body, supplements you take, and activities you do. It’s not a magic answer – it needs to be implemented among other things, but it sure makes a world of a difference.
Make a conscious decision to become present before eating any meal. Understandably, this isn’t practical with every single meal you eat, but it’s good to start somewhere and work your way upwards. So, here are some things to do before starting your next meal:
- Make sure you’re sitting in an upward position (no laying on your stomach or your back)
- Get rid of any distractions such as the TV or your phone
- Close your eyes. Inhale and exhale while feeling every breath entering and leaving your body
- Take a few breaths as deep as possible and exhale slowly
- Open your eyes and start eating
As someone who has been practicing mindful eating for some time now, I can guarantee that doing these simple steps before eating is extremely powerful and make a huge difference in the long run. Of course, don’t expect to feel the difference right away especially if you’re someone who has been eating mindlessly for a long time but stick to it and you will surely get there.
Long story short: it’s not always about seeking an external solution or a quick fix such as digestion supplements. Sometimes the solution is right within you, only if you listen well enough.