The pandemic brought a shift in our daily lives and a heightened awareness of family health. From better meal choices to more physical activity, the focus has shifted to immunity and overall well-being. Growing up, I observed my grandparents follow certain habits, rooted in the Sattvic diet and traditional practices, that supported digestive health and built immunity naturally. Today, these practices form the foundation of my family’s health routine. Below, I share five tried-and-tested habits that keep our digestive systems functioning smoothly.

1. Prioritize Oral Hygiene

Image Source: Creekside.com

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential not only for fresh breath and healthy gums but also for a healthy digestive system. Poor oral hygiene can lead to bacterial buildup in the mouth, which can enter the digestive system, causing various health issues. Here’s what we follow for optimal oral health:

  • Daily Flossing: Regular flossing is a must to remove food particles and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Oil Pulling: This ancient Ayurvedic practice involves swishing sesame or coconut oil in the mouth for a few minutes each morning. These oils contain healthy fats that trap and remove toxins, helping improve oral health and supporting digestion.

Good oral habits create a clean gateway for food to enter the digestive system and play a role in preventing unwanted bacteria from disrupting gut health.

2. Practice Yoga Asanas for Better Digestion

Image Source: lukecoutinho.com

I began practicing yoga to regain fitness, and I soon discovered it offered benefits far beyond weight management. Yoga asanas have significantly improved my body’s digestion and metabolism while also helping reduce stress.

  • Yoga for Mind-Body Balance: Practicing yoga has given me mental clarity, reduced my stress levels, and helped me feel energized.
  • Specific Poses for Digestion: Asanas like Pavanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose), Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) promote digestion by stimulating abdominal organs, enhancing circulation, and improving metabolism.

Whether you’re new to yoga or experienced, incorporating poses that specifically target digestion can lead to noticeable improvements in gut health.

3. Include More Fiber in the Diet

Image Source: helpguide.org

My mother always emphasized the importance of dietary fiber, and now I myself find it essential for sustained energy, healthy digestion, and regularity. Fiber-rich foods are incredibly beneficial, and here’s how I ensure my family gets enough:

  • Incorporating Whole Grains: Whole grains, which are rich in fiber and complex carbs, were a staple during my childhood. They provide long-lasting energy, which is especially important for women juggling multiple roles.

For more variety, I also use Multigrain Atta to make nutritious recipes like multigrain bread, dosas, cookies, and energy balls, ensuring my family gets ample fiber every day.

4. Embrace Regular Fasting

Image Source: Reddit.com

Incorporating a fasting period each day gives our digestive system time to rest and rejuvenate. Regular fasting has become an essential practice in our family routine for maintaining healthy digestion and metabolism.

  • Avoid Late-Night Snacks: Many of us indulge in late-night snacks, but it’s essential to give the body a break. We aim to finish dinner early and allow for a 12-hour fasting window overnight. This simple routine helps the digestive system recuperate and can improve overall metabolism.
  • Benefits of a 12-Hour Fast: Fasting gives our digestive organs time to cleanse and repair. It’s a habit I’ve followed for years, and I’ve found it greatly enhances my energy levels and digestion.

This form of intermittent fasting is effective, easy to adopt, and doesn’t require drastic lifestyle changes—just a bit of consistency.

5. Satisfy Sweet Cravings with Jaggery-Based Treats

Image Source: aazol.in

If you have a sweet tooth like my family does, you know how tempting dessert can be after a meal. Instead of processed sweets, we’ve switched to jaggery-based treats, which not only satisfy our cravings but also support digestion.

  • Jaggery as a Superfood: Rich in antioxidants, iron, vitamins, and minerals, jaggery is a nutritious alternative to sugar. It helps boost immunity and improves digestion.
  • Homemade Jaggery Treats: I prepare healthy sweets at home using jaggery, such as mini granola bars, dry fruit balls, and sesame laddoos. These treats curb sweet cravings while enhancing digestive health naturally.

Incorporating jaggery into our diet has been a game-changer, offering both health benefits and a way to enjoy sweets guilt-free.

Wrapping Up: Make Digestive Health a Family Priority

The practices listed here are simple yet powerful ways to support your family’s digestive health. From maintaining oral hygiene to incorporating fiber-rich whole grains, these habits nurture and strengthen the digestive system. I’d love to hear your digestive health practices! Let’s share tips and learn from each other.