Why Vidya Malavade’s hacks for improving digestion are worth noting

Most of us, owing to our busy schedules, often end up indulging in (a lot of) junk food and, as a result, experience sluggish/slowed digestion. This, in turn, not only affects our health in the long term but also our mood and productivity. But worry not, as fitness enthusiast Vidya Malavade has a few tips that she swears by to improve digestion.

“Just five minutes before you eat your food, have the juice of one lemon or a tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar in one cup of water. You can also have ginger tea. Boil ginger in water for 10-15 minutes and sip it. You can have it multiple times a day – like five minutes before food or one-hour post food,” she shared on her Instagram.

But does this tip work? To learn more, we turned to Dr Pratik Tibdewal, consultant gastroenterologist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, and Sushma PS, chief dietician, Jindal Naturecure Institute to understand how each of these ingredients helps better digestion and if it is suitable for all. “Digestion ‘hacks’ like consuming lemon water, ginger tea, or apple cider vinegar before meals are often recommended to aid digestion, but their effectiveness varies among individuals and lacks extensive scientific backing,” said Sushma.

Lemon juice

Consuming a glass of lemon juice (squeezed from one lemon) before meals is believed to aid digestion. Dr Tibdewal said that lemons are rich in vitamin C and citric acid, which can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and enhance the breakdown of food. “Additionally, the acidity in lemon juice may help regulate stomach acid levels, promoting a more balanced digestive environment. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of this hack may vary from person to person,” said Dr Tibdewal.

Organic apple cider vinegar

Taking one tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar diluted in water before meals is thought to improve digestion. According to Dr Tibdewal, apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which has been shown to enhance the digestion process by promoting the activity of digestive enzymes. “It may also help increase stomach acid production, which aids in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. However, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before regularly incorporating apple cider vinegar into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions,” said Dr Tibdewal.

Do you have apple cider vinegar in your diet? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Ginger tea

Having a cup of ginger tea before and after meals is a popular remedy for digestive issues. Dr Tibdewal elucidated that ginger contains compounds like gingerol and zingerone, which have been associated with anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

“It can help stimulate saliva, bile, and gastric juice production, thereby promoting digestion. Additionally, ginger possesses carminative properties, meaning it may reduce bloating and gas. However, individual responses may vary, and if you experience any discomfort, it’s best to discontinue use,” said Dr Tibdewal.

 

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While these hacks have been suggested to support good digestion, Dr Tibdewal stressed that it’s essential to remember that everyone’s digestive system is unique. “Experimentation and consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine the suitability and efficacy of these methods for improving digestion,” said Sushma.

Remember that habits like eating slowly, chewing food thoroughly, and staying hydrated also play crucial roles in maintaining good digestion overall, added Dr Tibdewal.

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