The digestive tract plays a vital role in your health. However, there are too many things that may cause bowel problems starting from gastrointestinal infections to more serious digestive conditions. Many people around the world suffer from gut problems. However, even a healthy person may experience bowel discomfort due to an improper diet. Here are ten of the best foods that can help improve your digestion and prevent bowel problems.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is an amazing spice that has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Turmeric contains curcumin that may decrease your risk of the gastrointestinal lining. Curcumin also positively affects gut bacterias and may also relieve symptoms of gastric disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. You may add turmeric to your salad or even tea. 

2. Chia seeds

Chia seed is a superfood that is rich in fiber and may relieve bowel conditions like constipation. When soaking seeds in water, they become mucilaginous and this may smooth your digestive tract. Chia seeds contain Omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for both overall and gut health. Chia seeds are also a good source of magnesium. This nutrient helps relax intestinal muscles and boost healing processes.

3. Ginger

Ginger contains a compound called gingerol. Gingerol eliminates compounds that cause inflammation and has a pain-blocking effect. Ginger may help you relieve nausea and gastrointestinal upset. It also boosts your immune system and prevents gut infections.

4. Mint

Mint may help relax intestinal muscles, relieve spasms, or bloating. Mint diminishes symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Mint has amazing antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help relieve indigestion. It is easy to incorporate mint in your diet. You may eat fresh or dried leaves and take mint supplements with food. Consult your gastroenterologist before taking mint supplements. 

5. Fermented foods

Fermented foods are one of the best foods for your intestines. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics that are favorable for your gut and help to fortify the intestinal lining. Fermented foods also beneficially affect irritable bowel syndrome and gastrointestinal infections caused by pathogens. Since our immunity is closely related to our diet, fermented foods may also boost your immune system.

6. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are rich in vitamins of group B, vitamin D, and fiber that are good for gut health. Beta-glucans that persist in mushroom strengthen the gut barrier and positively affect immunity. Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties and prevents many gut conditions. You may eat mushrooms as a garnish or add them to your salad. 

7. Sweet potato

Sweet potato is delicious food that is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants called anthocyanins. Vitamin A helps repair the intestinal barrier and promotes good immunity. Antioxidant anthocyanins may decrease your risk of colon cancer. Sweet potato boosts the production of gut enzymes that positively affect your digestion. 

8. Salmon

Salmon is a great source of proteins, Omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. Proteins and Omega-3 fatty acids boost the healing processes and reduce inflammation in your gut. Vitamin D is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. Salmon positively affects your gut microbiome. This may help relieve constipation and improve digestion.

9. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is considered a healthy cooking oil. Coconut oil is easy to digest and incorporate into your everyday meal. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Thus, coconut oil can prevent harmful bacteria from growing in the digestive tract. You may also use it as a salad dressing. 

10. Banana

Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, thus promote good digestion. This fruit helps restore normal bowel function, especially if you have diarrhea. A banana may help replenish electrolytes that you lost when you had a runny stool. It is a smooth food that won’t irritate your gut.