5 foods that speed digestion for a lightning-fast metabolism

A proper diet can help improve and speed up your digestive system and lower the risk of developing a host of illnesses. Check out five foods that can improve your digestion.

In Canada, digestive problems are a serious issue. According to the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, 10 per cent of all hospital visits can be attributed to such issues, and each year roughly 30,000 die due to digestive disorders. The Canadian Digestive Health Foundation also estimates that 20 million Canadians have problems with their digestive system. While certain factors can't be controlled, and many diseases are hereditary, a proper diet can help improve and speed up your digestive system and lower the risk of developing any issues. Check out five foods that can improve your digestion.

Whole grains are a great source of fibre. Consuming high-fibre foods may prevent heart disease, maintain blood glucose levels, lower cholesterol and more. Fibre also helps with bowel movements, makes your digestive system run more smoothly and may decrease the chance of colon cancer. Whole grains such as oats, wheat, barley and brown rice are great options. Many breakfast cereals are made with whole grains as well but check the package to be sure.

Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre, leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, cabbage and broccoli, aid the digestive system and may decrease the chance of cancer cells growing in the stomach. Leafy greens help your digestive system function at the highest possible level.

Considered a macronutrient, protein is a building block in the body. It's a part of every cell in your body and is vital for everything from hair growth to building muscle. It also helps the digestive system work at the proper rate. Healthy foods packed with protein, such as eggs, fish and nuts, make you feel full more quickly by slowing the digestive system and allowing it to absorb the nutrients. The key is eating the proper amount of protein for your age, size and gender and only eating small amounts of meat protein.

Yogurt is truly a superfood that may be beneficial for a range of body functions, from neurological development to helping you absorb calcium. Yogurt also has friendly bacteria, and if eaten every day, these bacteria line the intestinal wall and may keep toxins from infiltrating your bloodstream. Thus, it may help your body rid itself of toxins much faster, decreasing the chance of intestinal infection and colon problems.

Not only are lemons, oranges, limes, grapefruit and other citrus fruits tasty, they also offer many health benefits. According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, citrus fruit may help prevent the development of stomach cancer. Moreover, citrus fruits relieve bloating and gas and enable your digestive system to work more efficiently.

Improving digestion requires a healthy diet that includes these five kinds of foods. In addition, keeping a regular eating schedule, drinking plenty of water and choosing high-quality foods can help your digestive system work more efficiently.