7 Ways to Ease Digestive Problems After Going Vegan

Going vegan is one of the best ways to improve your digestion, but some people struggle with bloating and constipation after increasing their intake of plant-based foods. These digestive problems can make you conclude that a vegan diet isn’t for you, but the truth is you only need to make a few dietary changes to avoid digestive problems on a vegan diet.

Below are ways to ease digestive problems after going vegan to make the transition easier.

1. GO EASY ON VEGAN MEATS.

There are many delicious animal meat alternatives on the market. Unfortunately, these meat alternatives contain ingredients that can cause digestive problems.

To improve your digestion, you need to focus on eating unprocessed foods that contain fiber and essential nutrients. 

2. TAKE DIGESTIVE ENZYMES.

Your body may not be producing enough digestive enzymes, if you have pancreatic problems or celiac disease. Issues like stress and inflammation can also reduce the number of digestive enzymes your pancreas and small intestines produce.

If you’re struggling with any of the issues above, digestive enzymes will be handy. Your doctor can help you choose the best digestive enzymes for you.

3. EAT MORE VEGGIES.

Veggies are great for improving digestion and overall health, but you may want to avoid eating raw veggies in the first few days.

Smoothies can also ease your digestive problems. Just make sure you use digestive-friendly ingredients.

4. GO EASY ON BEANS.

If you’re not used to eating beans, chances are you’ll feel bloated after eating them. Therefore, eat small amounts and gradually increase your intake.

In fact, ensuring your beans are well cooked can help prevent bloating after meals. For canned beans, remove the liquid and rinse them. Soaking beans overnight and then rinsing them before cooking also helps.

5. ADD FERMENTED FOODS TO YOUR DIET.

Fermented foods help increase healthy gut bacteria and consequently ease digestive problems.  

6. DRINK HERBAL TEAS (AND PLENTY OF WATER).

Herbal teas can help ease constipation and poor bowel movement. For one thing, herbal tea increases your fluid intake, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Secondly, research shows that some teas relax your muscles and as a result, relieve constipation and make it easier for stool to pass.

Some of the teas that may be helpful include peppermint, dandelion, chamomile, and ginger tea. It’s also important to drink enough water. 

7. ELIMINATE HARD TO DIGEST PLANT-BASED FOODS.

Maybe you went vegan because you wanted to avoid foods that tax your digestive system, like red meat. Well, some plant-based foods are also hard to digest. Grains are the first food group that comes to mind. Cut back on grains or replace them with root vegetables until your body acclimates to a vegan diet.

Also, limit your intake of raw veggies, nuts, citrus fruits, and coconut and almond flours until you adjust to eating vegan.