Simple dietary and fitness tips for improved gut health

Gastrointestinal conditions include functional constipation or frequent acidity, to more serious, chronic conditions such as metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. If not treated effectively, such conditions can increase the risk of complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as per MayoClinic.org. In order to tackle these conditions, a holistic disease management approach that includes diet and lifestyle modifications is necessary. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

As the season is hot, one should avoid sour, salty, and pungent foods which increase pitta dosha (heat in the body). Rather we have consumed food having the following properties- Sweet- those which are naturally sweet such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Bitter that is sharp and pungent taste. Astringent food that makes the mouth feel chalky and cooling food are not necessarily colder in temperature rather they should have cooling effect post digestion. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Frequency and size of meals: The recommended frequency can vary widely as per individual requirements. For instance, roughly 5-6 small meals are recommended for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, while three meals a day are suggested in the case of patients with hyperlipidemia or hypertension, as per Indian Clinical Dietary Recommendations (ICDR), Nutrition Society of India, 2020. Overall, maintaining a regular schedule is vital, and can be helpful in curbing acid production and reflux. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Cooking methods: Yes, whether you boil, steam or sauté your food does matter! For instance, deep frying food should be avoided by patients with diabetic gastroparesis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and functional constipation. And broadly speaking, it is a good idea to avoid peeling vegetables before cooking. Once rinsed and cleaned, vegetable peels are excellent sources of nutrients and fibres that are key to maintaining a healthy gut. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Probiotics for gut health – The ‘good bacteria' in our digestive system determines how the body processes nutrients as well as harmful bacteria, making probiotics one of the strong supporting pillars for immunity. Good gut health is extremely important for immunity, and yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut are some delicious options for maintaining our gut health. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

“ That one hour of exercise in the morning is not enough, our body needs movement throughout the day. Going for short walks, taking calls while you walk, doing five squats every hour, doing backbends and forward bends, standing up and touching your toes are some movements which can help.” he says. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

The lymphatic massage that a facialist does helps to detox your skin and improve the firmness of your skin. So, keep that going by continuing to detox your skin by drinking plenty of plain water or fruit-infused water to deliver antioxidant protection to your skin. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Sleep: Some conditions necessitate specific sleeping habits. Patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) are advised to raise the head of their bed while sleeping, as well as to avoid sleeping within one hour of eating dinner. Quality of sleep is also essential, with improved sleep being a key lifestyle-based treatment goal across some conditions. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Dr Srirupa Das, medical director, Abbott India added, “Personalised counsel that includes India-specific dietary recommendations tailored to individual preferences can ensure better treatment adherence and improved health outcomes, so that patients can make lasting changes to live fuller, healthier lives.” (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

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