Seven ways to improve your digestion

Eat your probiotics

Supplements are great, but the real deal is even better when it comes to these mighty micro-organisms. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract; they relieve bellyaches and bloating. Look for lactobacillus strains in yogurt and fermented milk such as kefir.

Bonus: Recent studies suggest probiotics may also lower blood cholesterol and help fight the common cold!

Soak up some calm

Did you know there's a strong connection between the state of your mind and the health of your gut? So strong, in fact, that Harvard researchers say anger and stress can trigger digestive discomfort. "Limiting stress is as important for the gut as for the mind," confirms Dr. Kevan Jacobson, a gastroenterologist at the University of British Columbia. "I wish I could prescribe time off. We often underestimate the power of relaxation."

Try it now: If a break isn't in the cards, visit calmradio.com for an instant hit of bliss.

Enjoy more apples

This wonder fruit is packed with soluble and insoluble fibre for a combined total of over 5 g per serving. And this powerful duo is your BFF for digestive health, say Harvard researchers: Soluble fibre acts as a sticky gel to attract waste, and insoluble fibre acts as a broom to clear it away. Sure you can get fibre in bread and bran, but we're partial to crispy bites of apple to help move food quickly through your system.

Bottom line: Aim for 25 g of fibre a day (with at least 10 g of soluble) to eliminate constipation.

Put the kettle on

So long, soda! Bubbly beverages wreak havoc on our bellies, resulting in gas and that awful tight-jeans feeling. Instead, go for peppermint or ginger tea: A few sips will soothe upset stomach and relieve nausea.

Sweat it out

Get everything moving (literally!). Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or climbing stairs, boosts your heart rate and increases blood flow to your digestive organs, stimulating normal contractions of the intestines.

Love your liver

Research shows a good tummy rub can re-energize and cleanse the liver, improving digestion.

Try it today: Place the heel of your right hand on the right side of your stomach below the rib cage but above the hip bone. Point your fingers straight across your body, pressing firmly, while moving your hand slowly across to the middle of your abdomen. The heel of your hand should stop over your navel. Repeat 10 to 20 times.

Change your habits

Stubborn tummy troubles could signal a food allergy or intolerance. Try removing common culprits (dairy, wheat and sweeteners) from your diet for three days and note any changes in your digestion and energy levels. If you find you feel better, you may want to cut out those foods permanently.