However, youcanexert a little control over your breath.

And, whats more, deep purposeful breathing can improve your digestion.

Chest breathing utilizes the upper muscles of your chest to pull oxygen into your lungs, theMayo Clinicstates.

alt

When this happens, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.

Adrenaline boosts your energy, elevates your heart rate, and raises your blood pressure.

Cortisol controls (what it considers to be) non-essential activities within the body like digestion, theMayo Clinicsays.

Close-up of sliced purple cabbage,

Medical Doctor and Life Coach

Our nervous system can only be in one of those states at a time.

The parasympathetic nervous system also promotes salivation and restores normal blood flow to the organs that aid digestion.

She recommends that you sit quietly and feel your feet on the ground.

soba noodles

Hold your breath for 2 seconds if you’re free to, Dr. Tsai explains.

Exhale slowly through your mouth (count to six) as your abdomen deflates.

Repeat three to five times.

a woman pours maple syrup onto a stack of pancakes covered in strawberries

Volpe also adds that you should avoid deep breathingwhileyou eat because it can cause bloating or choking.

Before and after eating are ideal.

This is an opportunity to improve your digestion and calm your system before you eat.

Broth in Bowl on gray background, healthy food, top view.

Medical Doctor and Life Coach

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

maple syrup in glass bottle on wooden table

Protein isolate powder. Unflavored whey protein in measuring scoop and drinking glass in bright sunlight.