It has been shown that on average the population of a First World country such as New Zealand
only eats 72% of its RDA for fibre. Not surprising, then, that digestive problems are one of the
main causes of illness.
5 Signs All is NOT well:
1) Re-occurring sudden and severe constipation or diarrhoea.
2) Diarrhoea that lasts for more than 48 hours and is accompanied by stomach pains.
3) Nausea that lasts more than 24 hours, especially if it is accompanied by vomiting.
4) Re-occurring and persistent reflux.
5) Blood in your poo or on the toilet paper.
Please note if any of the symptoms above do not subside after 24 hours, and especially
if they are re-occurring, then a doctor should be urgently consulted.
ACTION:
First remove some of the irritants so cut down, even when you feel fine, on all of the following:
a) Caffeine
b) Alcohol
c) Smoking
d) High in fat and fried foods. You do need some oil so use avocado (the fruit and oil) and extra
virgin oils sparingly on salads. If possible avoid heating/cooking with any oil as most of the good
properties of any oil are destroyed on heating.
e) Try and lower your stress levels and get more rest. Ongoing stress is one of the main causes
of digestive upsets and diseases of the stomach and bowel.
FOODS that will help:
1) Natural yoghurt and pro-biotic supplements.
2) Start eating natural low-fat starchy foods such as:
a) Cold cooked potatoes. If you make a potato salad use a yoghurt-based dressing or simple
lemon juice and olive oil or Manuka Honey and Cider Vinegar.
b) Oats, especially for breakfast
c) Firm bananas as snacks.
d) Chickpeas, lentils or any type of dried bean. Also all legumes are high in protein so you can
cut down on the higher-in-fat meat products.
e) Eat red meat only twice weekly and use only high-quality, low-fat cuts in small amounts.