From fennel to flaxseeds: Beat acidity, bloating, and constipation the natural way

Digestive problems like bloating, gas and constipation are becoming more prevalent due to junk food diets and lack of exercise. Irregular diet, processed foods and fiber deficiency all cause havoc in the digestive system and gut. Medications can provide relief in the short run but more long-term solution to all these lies close to our heels. Fennel, ajwain and bananas are just a few kitchen staples and simple ingredients that have been employed for centuries in old systems of medicine like Ayurveda to enhance digestion and avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.
Let us see how a particular food may address these common digestive issues naturally

If there is frequent burning in the chest or particularly after eating, it may be caused by acid reflux or hyperacidity. Fennel seeds are perhaps the best natural treatment. Fennel seeds contain volatile oils and antioxidants, which reduce inflammation of the stomach lining, aid digestion, and prevent the accumulation of excess stomach acid. Swallowing a teaspoon of fennel seeds after meals can solve the problem.Ginger: A strong digestive herb that assists in calming down the muscle groups in the gastrointestinal tract and decreases acid from moving back into the esophagus. Sipping warm ginger tea, incorporating a new piece of grated ginger with meals can significantly relieve acidity and nausea symptoms.
Bananas: Rich in alkaline naturally and packed with potassium. They line the acidic stomach lining and helps neutralise the acid, making a soothing, fruit for anyone suffering from a reflux.

Bloating and gas can be painful and humiliating at times. Tendency to be caused by weak and poor digestion or high fermentation in the gut. All these problems can be relieved with some easy home remedies.
Carom seeds (ajwain): An extremely stimulating gut digestive enzyme, a pinch of ajwain in warm water can ease gas, ease heaviness and bloating.
​Raisins: Soaked overnight and consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, they work as a mild laxative. They also supply major minerals such as potassium and magnesium

Constipation occurs frequently due to inadequate fiber consumption, lack of fluid or sedentary lifestyle, adding fiber-rich foods to diet can be a game changer.
Flaxseeds: Both soluble and insoluble fiber content is high in flaxseeds, adding bulk to stool and regular bowel movements. Soaking flaxseeds overnight then grinding them into smoothies and adding them to yogurt bowls is an excellent option to add them to our diet.

Oats: Daily use of oats encourage healthy digestion and facilitates softening of stool, making elimination easier

​Ghee: A kitchen staple and recognized constipation reliever. One teaspoon of warm ghee added to milk at bedtime serves as a natural lubricant for the intestines and ensures regular elimination.

Including these natural and easy foods in our regular routine can provide long term advantages. Conscious decisions, whether it is drinking a warm ginger tea or chewing fennel seeds can yield large digestive advantages.