Open your ears and hold your noses, people. We’re about to hit you with a topic we ladies have been brought up never to discuss, but one that is inextricably linked to our diet, exercise and overall health. This is something we do—or should do—at least once every day. And if we’re not, then the question is, why not? Oh yes. Today, we’re getting down and dirty, with talk of poop—and more specifically, how to stay regular. And as a nutritionist and gluten-free expert, I’m here to help get you keep things moving right along.
HERE’S THE SCOOP ON YOUR POOP
The Guide to Regular Stools
Remember we aren’t what we eat; we are what we absorb! So if you’re not digesting and eliminating properly, that can wreak havoc on your immune system and energy level. That’s why we all need simple digestion fixes. They make a huge difference in how we feel. So how can learn to regulate yourself? Check out the Bristol Stool Chart, a medical aid designed to help you diagnose your poop on a scale. Then read on for solutions that will tell you exactly what you can do to get your digestion on track.
I’M A TYPE 1 OR 2
Answer: You are constipated! Although you may not realize it, being unable to poop can cause decreased energy and foggy-headed feeling. Solution:
- Drink 2-3 litres of water daily and get moving. Even a simple 10-minute walk can get things moving inside you.
- Start taking 1 tablespoon of kefir daily to supply probiotics to your digestive system.
- Reduce or eliminate protein powders. These are dehydrated products that can often mess with your system.
- Add 2 tablespoons of chia or ground flax daily into your every day eating and eat 4 cups of raw or cooked veggies per day.
- If all else fails, visit your doctor for a thyroid and bowels checkup.
- Eat more high fibre fruits.
I’M A TYPE 3
Answer: You are almost there! You don’t want to have those cracks, so you are a tad dehydrated. Solution:
- Increase your water intake to 2-3 litres per day.
- Consider adding in healthy fats like coconut oil and fish oil to lubricate your digestive tract.
- Increase your intake of high fibre foods.
I’M A TYPE 4
Answer: Congrats. You’re moving at the right pace. Aim to have one of these minimal once and optimal twice per day.
I’M A TYPE 5, 6 OR 7
Answer: Warning: You have a food intolerance, parasite, imbalanced gut flora or inflammation occurring. Solution:
- Avoid common food intolerances like gluten, dairy, soy and dairy for 2 weeks and see if improvement occurs.
- Ask your doctor to test for parasites, especially if you have been travelling overseas.
- Considering taking a high quality probiotic available in a health food store in the cooler section.
- Decrease foods that may be causing inflammation. Common triggers are gluten and dairy.
Got your own tips or tricks to get things moving? Please, do share.
