Digestive problems are something that millions of people struggle with every single day. It doesn’t matter whether you’re reaching retirement age, or you’re in Kindergarten— digestive problems can strike anyone at any time.   Stomach troubles can be the result of many factors, from gastroenteritis to food poisoning to lactose intolerance. 

Whatever the cause, anyone who’s ever experienced a bad stomach knows that it goes beyond just discomfort— it can downright bring your plans to a halt, and can make the simple act of leaving the house complicated. 

The great news is that you don’t have to live with digestive discomfort forever. There may very well be a solution to your tummy woes,  that doesn’t require a visit the doctor. Take a look at some of the best tips for better digestion.

Eat In The Right Order

Recent research shows that the order in which you eat your food can have a significant impact on how well you digest it. Nutrition experts recommend eating vegetables first which will coat the lining of your stomach, followed by your proteins, fats, and lastly carbohydrates. 

Doing so won’t just help use your digestion, but it will also slow your glucose spike.  if you’re someone that gets particularly tired after eating, has stomach aches, or gets intense sugar cravings, then you should seriously consider changing the order in which you eat your foods.

Take Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is one of the best remedies for an upset stomach. Unlike Maalox or similar competitors, activated charcoal absorbs the toxins in your tummy, and provides instant relief from cramps and bloating. It can be a lifesaver if you bring it with you to a third-world country that is known for upsetting tourists’ tummies. Although the dosage can vary, typically you can take up to six capsules a day to soothe your digestive discomfort.

Know What Foods Set You Off

If there are certain foods in particular that you know will upset your gut, it’s better to leave them alone. Despite how much you might love that BLT followed by a coffee, is it really worth the stomach ache that follows? 

Sometimes avoiding digestive problems often comes down to self-control. By observing your body and its reaction to certain foods, you can avoid many digestive issues.

Wash Up

One of the biggest causes of an upset belly is consuming bad bacteria. One of the most straightforward ways to avoid this is by washing your hands regularly. This also goes for your vegetables and fruits. Make sure that they are properly rinsed and washed before you even consider putting them into your mouth. The simple act of washing your hands and food can save you a lot trouble with your stomach down the road.