Many people struggle with digestive issues. Whether they are small ailments or more significant ones, digestive problems prevent those who suffer from them from living their lives to the fullest.
The good news? There is a lot you can do to relieve some of the discomfort that stems from poor digestion. You may integrate digestive supplements into your daily routine, incorporate regular exercise, and even reduce the amount of stress you experience on a day to day basis.
~~~One of the greatest changes many people choose to make to relieve their digestive issues is within their diet and the foods they choose to eat~~~
Although there are countless diet changes you can make when it comes to your digestive health, one of the key players is Alfalfa. Packed with a ton of essential nutrients and minerals, Alfalfa may be just the food your body is needing!
A Little Information on “The Father of All Food”
Alfalfa is often referred to as “The Father of All Food” and for good reason! Alfalfa has one of the greatest root systems which allows for the plant to soak up several of the key vitamins and nutrients found within the soil from which it grows. Vitamins B, K, A, D, E, iron, potassium, and magnesium are just a few of the essentials you will find in this nutrient-dense plant! Alfalfa has been known to help with not only digestive ailments but also inflammation, tooth decay, and aid in the clotting of blood. It also has very high levels of chlorophyll which increases oxygenation throughout the body. With all of these benefits from this nutrient-packed plant, is it any wonder why so many are going to it in order to find relief from their digestive issues?
Digestive Enzymes
Alfalfa contains a high ratio of digestive enzymes that help the body digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. How does this aid your digestion? Simply stated, alfalfa helps reduce indigestion and gas by assisting the body in properly digesting the other foods you may have recently consumed. Sounds ideal, right? When taking alfalfa on a regular basis, your body does not need to work as hard to breakdown the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that may otherwise cause your intestines and stomach grief.
Power of Potassium
Alfalfa is packed with potassium which can do wonders for your digestive health! The potassium found in alfalfa is known to reduce water retention within all parts of the body and decrease constipation. As an essential electrolyte, potassium aids in the process of eliminating water retention found within the body. This not only reduces swelling caused by water retention, but it also supports the process of digestion. When combined with the minerals found within alfalfa, potassium serves as a diuretic. This function of potassium ultimately promotes digestive regulation especially for those who suffer from constipation.
Alkaline Food
Alfalfa is also considered an alkaline food. Alfalfa may help to relieve the symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers due to its ability to regulate the stomach’s pH levels. When your body struggles to digest food properly, the stomach has to create more acid to help breakdown the foods consumed. When this occurs, you may suffer from the symptoms noted above such as heartburn. However, alkaline foods help reduce the stomach’s acidity and thus brings the pH levels back into balance and ultimately minimizes the symptoms caused by high concentration of acid in the stomach. Combine the benefits of being an alkaline food and the others listed above, and alfalfa truly serves as an excellent digestive aid!
How Should You Incorporate Alfalfa into Your Diet?
Alfalfa is a very versatile plant and can be consumed in a variety of ways. However, most experts recommend taking alfalfa supplements in order to ensure accurate and consistent application into the body. Supplements that specifically state the leaves of the alfalfa plant were used in creating the capsule ensure the greatest efficacy with relieving digestive discomfort. You may also consume alfalfa alone, in tea form, or in a soup or salad.
If you're the adventurous type, you can sprout your own alfalfa. Check out the sprout bags here and get yourself some alfalfa seeds here and you are on your way. Spring is the perfect time to start your sprouting journey.
A Word of Caution
This information is not to treat or diagnose any medical condition. Although consuming alfalfa is relatively safe, it is important to discuss your digestive health with a medical professional if you are suffering from digestive issues. It is also important to consult your physician if you are pregnant, allergic to certain dietary foods, or if you are on any medication. Also keep in mind that any supplement should be taken in moderation and only to be incorporated into your lifestyle after consulting an expert.
1 comment
I have been taking alfalfa pills for a month now. 2 in morning, 2 in evening. It does everything you say. My IBS constipation has gotten so much better. My bloating is now non existent. I suggest anyone with problems give it a try.