Digestive health

A healthy digestive system starts with the right foods. Good options include those high in fibre, such as wholemeal bread, brown rice and other wholegrains, which help keep your gut healthy.

It is also good to cut down on processed foods and focus on whole foods for good gut balance. Whole foods include fruits and vegetables, pulses like chickpeas and lentils, and foods with healthy fats like nuts and seeds.

Probiotics and prebiotics like natural yoghurt, kefir, kimchi and sauerkraut can also support digestion by providing beneficial ‘friendly’ gut bacteria. Probiotics are also available as supplements.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps keep digestion working smoothly.

Find out more in this article about how to maintain a healthy gut.

Improving your digestive health naturally is all about creating healthy habits. Discover more in this article about how to maintain a healthy gut.

Digestive disorders can affect how your body processes food and absorbs nutrients. One of the most common conditions is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, cramps, and sudden diarrhoea following a meal.

Other digestive disorders include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which causes chronic inflammation of the gut, and coeliac disease, which is an adverse reaction to gluten.

Some people may experience food intolerance, where symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach ache, bloating or wind appear a few hours after eating certain foods.

There are a range of options for bloating, constipation and diarrhoea relief.

If you have any concerns about your gut health, speak with a doctor.

Yes, certain drinks can support a healthy digestive system. Herbal teas like peppermint and ginger are often used to soothe the stomach and ease bloating. Drinks containing probiotics, such as kefir or some natural yoghurt drinks, can also help maintain a healthy balance of ‘friendly’ gut bacteria.

Staying hydrated with water is essential for digestion and cutting back on sugary or fizzy drinks may reduce discomfort like bloating or indigestion.

Find out more on eating for gut health in this article about how to maintain a healthy gut.

There are several supplements that may help support digestion. Probiotic supplements are one of the most popular, as they can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut. Digestive enzyme supplements may help some people break down food more easily, particularly those with certain food intolerances. Fibre supplements, such as psyllium husk, can support regular bowel movements if you’re not getting enough fibre from your diet.

It's always a good idea to speak to a doctor before starting any new supplements.

For a convenient way to help support digestive health, explore the Pharmacy2U range of supplements.

Poor digestion can show up in a number of ways. Common signs include bloating, wind, constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort and heartburn. You might also feel overly full or sluggish after meals, or notice changes in your appetite or bowel habits. These symptoms can affect your daily life, but many digestive issues can be managed or improved with the right advice and lifestyle changes.

Find out more on eating for gut health in this article about how to maintain a healthy gut.

If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, speak with a doctor.