Ayurveda, the traditional wellness system, recommends specific foods to support women's gut health. These foods have the ability to maintain the balance of the three energies (dosha) of the body, improve digestion, and nourish the digestive system. Dr Uma V, Assistant Research Officer & Physician, AVP Research Foundation shares a list of 10 superfoods that helps promote gut health of women.
Ghee
Ghee is revered as the most nutritious form of edible fat. It stokes the body's inner fire, enhancing the digestion, absorption and utilisation of nutrients. By coating the digestive tract, ghee minimises the risk of ulcers and cancer. Additionally, ghee's ability to boost metabolism makes it a valuable ally in weight management, acidity, bloating, and ulcers and helps alleviate menstrual problems linked to metabolic imbalances in women.
Cumin seeds
According to Dr Uma, “Cumin seeds have warming properties and stimulate the digestive fire, which speeds up digestion. This can lead to improved energy levels, enhanced nutrient absorption, and a reduced risk of digestive disorders. Cumin seeds offer a powerful solution in regulating the menstrual cycles, effectively relieving cramps, bloating, and other premenstrual woes.”
Grapes
The black-seeded grape variety is viewed as the superior choice, and they possess natural cooling properties. These improve bowel movements, relieve constipation, purify the blood, and are stomachic. They prove beneficial for individuals experiencing gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux, and can help alleviate bleeding disorders and heavy menstruation in women.
Also Read: Exploring the Benefits of Probiotics and Prebiotics For Gut Health
Garlic
Garlic, referred to as ‘Rasona’ in Ayurveda, is a remarkable spice that offers numerous benefits for women's health by stimulating the digestive system, thereby enhancing digestion. Garlic also helps to address gut health issues such as bloating, irregular bowel movements, menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhoea, and polycystic ovarian disease by improving the overall metabolism of the body.
Ash gourd
Ash gourd is known for its ability to nourish and balance the digestive system, which is often disrupted in women due to hormonal changes, stress, and poor diet. It is particularly beneficial in alleviating PMS symptoms like bloating, cramps, and mood swings. “The properties of ash gourd, such as its cooling and calming effects, make it an effective remedy for soothing the digestive system and alleviating symptoms like indigestion, which are common during menstruation,” shares Dr Uma.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk, a digestive drink aids in digestion and promotes lightness in the body. It is light, tangy, and warming, helping to alleviate bloating, cramps, haemorrhoids, spleen problems, and anaemia. Buttermilk improves digestion, reduces inflammation, and manages various digestive issues like poor appetite, irritable bowel syndrome, and diarrhoea.
Also Read: From Digestion To Immunity: 7 Amazing Health Benefits Of Drinking Buttermilk
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is known to gently soothe and calm the digestive system. Dr Uma explains, “Having a sour and astringent taste and anti-inflammatory characteristics, this fruit offers relief from the disruptive symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other common digestive concerns faced by women, making it a valuable addition to a woman's holistic health journey.”
Coriander seeds
Coriander seeds known as Dhania have a profound impact on maintaining a healthy gut in women as they are a natural carminative and hence alleviate symptoms of bloating, gas, and cramps in women. Additionally, these seeds are believed to aid in digestion, alleviate nausea and vomiting, and regulate bowel movements. Furthermore, they balance the female reproductive system, helping alleviate symptoms like menstrual cramps, hot flashes, nausea, and vomiting during pregnancy.
Also Read: Probiotics Guide: Know When and How To Take Them To Avail Best Benefits
Ginger
Ginger provides relief from digestive problems like bloating, gas, and indigestion in women. The warming nature of ginger may assist in boosting the digestive process and enhancing gut movement. Adding ginger to one's diet can help maintain overall digestive health and foster a balanced gut ecosystem, which is crucial for women's overall health and vitality.
Amla
Amla is excellent for women's digestive health in all ages. It is rejuvenating and balances the three dosha, supporting the body's natural detoxification and boosting energy levels. Amla is particularly effective in addressing common gut health issues in women, such as cramps, hyper acidity and bloating, due to its cooling and soothing effect on the digestive system.