Improve your digestion this winter with these tips

The winter months can wreak havoc on your digestion for several different reasons. First off, you may be exercising less because it’s way too cold outside or you’re so busy planning parties and preparing gifts. Second, holiday parties! They seem to be every week, sometimes even twice a week. You eat too much, you eat unhealthy foods, and let’s not forget about the booze either.

Lastly, lower temperatures mean slower metabolism. With this in mind, there’s no wonder that you not only gain weight this winter but experience stomach and digestive issues too.

But you don’t need to fall victim to the winter and its effects on your digestion. There are simple things you can do to promote a healthy digestion and not feel bogged down or sluggish until the spring.

Tips to improve digestion in the winter

Winter greens: Even though snow may be covering the ground, you should still seek out greens in the winter. Eating a variety of seasonal winter greens is a great way to improve digestion. Greens, in general, are packed with fiber that help to bulk up your stool along with keeping you regular. Furthermore, eating fiber makes you feel fuller for longer so you won’t be as tempted to over-indulge at those holiday parties. With a variety of winter greens available, you can use them in several different ways including in soups, wraps, broths, and salads.

Ghee: If you’ve never heard of ghee, let us explain what it is. Ghee is clarified butter made from butterfat, milk solids, and water that stems from India. Ghee has not only been found to improve digestion, but also boosts the immune system, which is necessary for the colder months when it’s far easier to catch a cold or flu. It promotes healthy gut bacteria, which is how it works to improve digestion. Ghee can be a substitute for refined oils to make dishes healthier.

Herbs and spices: Herbs and spices have been known to boost digestion along with your immune system. Furthermore, they can easily be added to soups, beverages, and main entrees like meats and vegetables. They’re a great way to reduce your salt intake as they flavor your food far more than salt.

Fiber: Fiber is key to healthy digestion. As mentioned, fiber promotes bowel regularity, it bulks up stools, and it prevents overeating. High-fiber foods have been shown to benefit heart health as well as they can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Staying hydrated: Instead of opting for another mixed drink or wine, drink water to stay hydrated. Being hydrated prevents bloating and helps flush the body of toxins. Water can also help you feel full. Lastly, being well-hydrated aids in digestion and makes sure things keep moving along so you don’t end up constipated. Drinking warm water is also another good way to promote digestion.

Related: 7 winter foods that can improve your health