5 New Year’s Resolutions for Digestive Health

family juicing and eating salad around a table

The state of your digestive system can significantly affect your overall health. Since many people make New Year’s resolutions this time of year, we’re focusing on lifestyle changes that could substantially impact your health. These are resolutions to keep this year and beyond.

New Year’s Resolutions for Digestive Health

Drink more water. Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your digestive health. Aim for six to eight glasses of water daily, and keep a water bottle with you when you’re on the go. According to new research, it could also help you live longer!

Stay on track with all of your necessary screenings. For example, everyone over 45 should be screened for colorectal cancer. Colonoscopies, which are hailed as the gold standard, have a high success rate in identifying colon cancer, which can save your life. Click here for more information on colorectal cancer screening and who should get screened.

Eat more fiber. Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily to keep your digestive system moving. Starting the day with a high-fiber breakfast – such as oatmeal, fruits, nuts, and bran cereals – can go a long way toward regulating bowel movements.

Slow down when eating. Your digestion can be impacted by how relaxed you are at mealtimes and how quickly you eat. Never rush at mealtime. Take the time to chew your food thoroughly.

Get moving. Regular exercise is good for your digestion and your overall health. Try to get some form of activity daily, even if it involves chores such as walking the dog. Signing up for an exercise or dance class is another fun way to get your exercise!

The bottom line is that you can improve your digestion and overall health by making a few long-term changes. But chronic digestive issues can be a sign of deeper health problems. If you’re experiencing frequent discomfort or pain, it’s best to see your physician.