Digestive upsets like stomach pains, nausea, gas, heartburn, or constipation are often uncomfortable, stressful, and, let's face it, a real mood-killer. Poor gut health is often the cause, so in this Blended For Wellness we're sharing tips on ways to keep yours happy.

7 Best ways to Improve Digestion

• Skip Processed Foods

Diets high in refined carbs, saturated fats, and food additives have been linked to increased risk of digestive disorders and gut inflammation.

• Fibre-Load

Fibre helps to keep your digestive tract moving along and cleans your GI (gastrointestinal) tract. It also promote regular bowel movements, and in turn reduces the chance of constipation. Your BFY blends have a 10 to 17 grams of fibre (about 1/3 to 1/2 of the daily recommendation).

• Get Your Healthy Fats

Healthy fats help you feel satisfied after a meal and support the absorption/body's processing of certain essential nutrients. Omega 3's have been linked to a decreased risk in developing IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Sources of healthy fats: avocado, nuts, seeds (hemp, chia, flax), omega-rich fatty fish (eg. salmon), and oils in moderation like avocado, flax, olive and coconut.

• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Not getting in enough non-caffeinated liquids is common cause on constipation. If drinking all of the 8 to 10 glasses per day isn't your thing, eating high-water content fruits and vegetables can help keep you hydrated.

• Manage Stress

The physical symptoms of stress often show up in your gut. Next time you're feeling stressed, try to be aware of whether or not you're holding your breath (a common stress reaction), which can cause stomach pains and cramping. Stress management has been shown to improve IBS symptoms. Incorporating deep belly breathing or yoga is good for your mind and gut health.

• Get Moving

LIGHT movement and gravity help move food through your GI tract. Feel like hitting the couch after a meal? Do the opposite & head out for an easy walk.

• Eat Mindfully

Slow down. When you eat too fast your mind and gut can't catch up and you can end up skipping the 'proper chewing' part (often with rushed-eating & mindless-eating), over-eating, feeling bloated and nauseous. This includes meals like smoothies, soups, and other liquid-based meals - go slow.

If you'd like recommendations on which blends are best for a healthy gut and your taste preferences, please check out the nutrition panel on each product page or email us anytime at info@blendedforyou.com.

Easy Fibre-Rich Chia Bowls

Our new Acai Organic Bowl and Chia Energy Bowl are both great for checking off the high-fibre, fruits, veggies, healthy fats boxes. Hack them with these really easy chia/smoothie bowl recipes:

1. Choose either pack, soften partially
2. Blend with 1/2 cup coconut milk + 1/4 cup baked, gluten-free, refined sugar-free granola (we like ones that have nuts add for texture)
3. top blueberries, raspberries, coconut yogurt or flakes. Serve into a bowl or jar and get spooning.

Happy Spooning!