Digestive Health 101

Digestive Health 101: How to Improve Digestion Naturally

Digestive health plays a vital role in how your body functions every single day. From how well you absorb nutrients to how energised, balanced, and comfortable you feel, your digestive system influences far more than just your stomach.

Yet many people experience digestive discomfort — bloating, heaviness after meals, irregular digestion, or feeling like food just “sits” in their gut. These issues are increasingly common in modern lifestyles and often signal that the digestive system needs additional support.

This guide explores how digestion works, what disrupts it, and how you can support digestive health naturally — including when a digestive supplement like Intact Digest may be helpful.

Why Digestive Health Matters

Digestion is the process by which your body breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and eliminates waste. When digestion is functioning well, your body can efficiently extract vitamins, minerals, and energy from the foods you eat.

When digestion is compromised, even a healthy diet may not deliver its full benefits. Poor digestive health is commonly linked to:

  • Bloating and gas
  • Stomach discomfort after meals
  • Irregular bowel movements
  • Low energy levels
  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Weakened immune response

Your gut is also closely connected to your immune system and nervous system, making digestive health foundational to overall wellbeing.

How the Digestive System Works

  • Digestion Begins in the Mouth — Chewing breaks food down while enzymes in saliva begin digestion.
  • Stomach Breakdown — Stomach acid and enzymes break food into smaller components.
  • Nutrient Absorption in the Small Intestine — Most vitamins, minerals, fats, and proteins are absorbed here.
  • Gut Balance & Elimination — The large intestine supports gut bacteria and waste removal.

When any part of this process becomes inefficient, digestive discomfort and poor nutrient absorption can follow.

Common Factors That Disrupt Digestion

  • Highly processed foods
  • High sugar intake
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Antibiotic use
  • Age-related enzyme decline
  • Mineral deficiencies

Over time, these can weaken digestive efficiency, leading to symptoms like bloating, heaviness, or irregular digestion.

Signs Your Digestive System May Need Support

  • Bloating after meals
  • Gas or abdominal pressure
  • Feeling overly full after small meals
  • Irregular digestion
  • Fatigue after meals
  • Poor tolerance of certain foods

If these symptoms occur frequently, supporting digestion at a foundational level may help restore balance.

How to Improve Digestion Naturally

  • Eat Mindfully — Slowing down and chewing thoroughly supports enzyme activity.
  • Prioritise Whole Foods — Nutrient-dense foods are easier for the body to process.
  • Manage Stress — Chronic stress directly impacts digestion.
  • Stay Hydrated — Water supports digestion and nutrient transport.
  • Consider Digestive Support — Supplements can help digestion and gut comfort.

When to Consider a Supplement Like Intact Digest

Even with a healthy lifestyle, digestion may struggle due to stress, ageing, or modern diets.

Digestive supplements are designed to support:

  • Efficient breakdown of food
  • Nutrient absorption
  • Gut comfort and balance

Unlike single-function products (enzymes or probiotics), Intact Digest supports multiple stages of digestion with a holistic formula.

Always consult your GP before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medication.