The rate of digestion

Nutrients break down at different rates and at different times in the body. The digestion of different nutrients takes place in different sections of the digestive tract. If a nutrient that can be digested quickly is eaten after a nutrient that is harder to digest, it will have to wait its turn to be processed by the stomach. It is similar to a situation when you are in a hurry but there is a slower car in front of you and you must wait your turn.

It is important to consider the time it takes for certain food items to be digested when planning a meal.

Longer digestion requires more energy. Since digestion is the number one task for the body, a longer process will cause more fatigue and the body will require more sleep. In addition, more toxins will be produced during digestion.

However, if nutrients are consumed in the correct order, digestion will only require a minimal amount of energy, metabolism will be faster, and this can even cause weight loss. Consuming food items in the correct order produces layers in the stomach aiding the effectiveness of the digestion. The most optimal way of eating would be if only one kind of food was eaten during each meal. This is almost impossible and some people eat 7 to 10 different types of foods at the same time.

Make an effort to serve only 2 or 3 types of food to your child at each meal. These food groups should have similar digestive properties or be served in the correct order.

Start the meal with food that has the highest water content! Eat raw fruits and vegetables first and steamed produce later.

The meal should never end with sweets, pastries, ice cream or fruits! Desserts induce excessive acid production, since the dessert has to wait in the stomach for digestion of the main course to finish. Wait to eat dessert for an hour or so after the meal.

Children should eat protein and carbohydrates in the proper ratio every time.

One teaspoon of unsaturated fat is recommended per day. It is also advisable to eat fish 2 to 3 times per week.

If possible, consume some fruits or vegetables before each meal. The fibres loosen up the stool and clean the bowels.