Want to know one of the best ways to stave off stomach problems and keep your digestive system running properly? It's as simple as fueling your body with the right kinds of foods. Heavy, high-fat meals force your digestive system to work harder than normal, which may cause discomfort. But by maintaining a healthy, well-rounded diet that includes plenty of produce, whole grains and lean protein, you can help prevent stomach problems before they start. Here are ten of our favorite foods for good digestion.

Yogurt
Yogurt is loaded with live bacteria. But that's actually a good thing, because in this case, it's what we refer to as healthy bacteria, called probiotics. And they're particularly good for digestion. In addition to their immune-boosting benefits, probiotics like acidophilus support digestive and intestinal health. Essentially, these bacteria predigest your food for you, helping to break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which makes them easier to digest. At the same time, they also help your body to better absorb the nutrients in the foods you eat. But all yogurts are not created equal. When buying yogurt, look for brands that contain live and active cultures. And watch out for ones that are high in fat or contain added sugar.

In addition to eating yogurt, we recommend taking Schiff® Probiotic Acidophilus. A diet rich in acidophilus may help alleviate occasional gas, bloating and upset stomach. For optimal digestion, studies recommend one billion or more live cells. Schiff® Probiotic Acidophilus is guaranteed to contain one billion live cells per tablet through the product shelf life.

Apples
We've all heard the saying about an apple a day keeping the doctor away. But what makes apples so good for you? One of the main reasons is because they're loaded with fiber — which is essential for good digestion and helps to prevent constipation. And the kind of fiber in apples is particularly beneficial. It's a soluble form of fiber called pectin, which helps to encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. Apples also contain malic and tartaric acid, two acids that aid digestion and help to prevent food from fermenting in the intestines.

Papayas
Want to help a heavy meal go down easier? Have some papaya. This exotic fruit boasts high levels of digestive enzymes, including papain, which helps the body to digest proteins. Papayas are also rich in antioxidants that support colon health, like Vitamin C, Vitamin E and beta-carotene. Plus, they're an excellent source of fiber.

In addition to eating foods that are high in antioxidants, we recommend taking supplements to boost your intake. Two good choices are Schiff® Buffered Vitamin C 500 mg, which contains rosehips to prevent stomach irritation, and Schiff® Vitamin E Complex 400 IU.

Whole Grains
Contrary to all the hype, there's no need to eliminate carbohydrates from your diet. Carbs actually provide some important health benefits, particularly for your digestion. The trick is to avoid the overly processed breads and pastas made from refined white flour, because the refining process removes many of the nutrients. Whole grains, on the other hand, are loaded with vitamins and fiber. In addition to helping you stay full longer and keeping your blood sugar steady, fiber-rich whole grains help keep food moving through the intestine. And unlike refined carbs, whole grains also contain beneficial digestive enzymes. Good choices include brown rice and whole-grain breads and pastas. But keep in mind that just because a food looks like it's whole grain doesn't mean it is. So always look for the words "100% whole grain" on the label.

Olive Oil
You've probably already heard that extra virgin olive oil contains healthy fats that support heart health. But did you know that it's good for your digestive system too? When you consume olive oil, it actually stimulates digestion. In fact, the ancient Greeks were known to consume a spoonful or two of olive oil every morning for this very reason. And because this monounsaturated fat is easy to digest, it helps the body absorb the nutrients in food and digest other fats more easily.

Avocados
With their rough skin, avocados are sometimes referred to as "alligator pears." But inside that leather-like exterior is a creamy, nutritious fruit that's both easy to digest and packed with health benefits. On average, one medium avocado contains about 15 grams of fiber, a dietary essential for good digestion. Avocados are also rich in folic acid and potassium, two nutrients that are important for heart health, as well as heart-healthy, monounsaturated fats. And in addition to being good for your heart, these fats help support digestive health.

Fish
With all its health benefits, it's no wonder that fish is being touted as a so-called "superfood." But as if all the evidence of what it can do for your heart and your brain weren't enough, now you can add digestive health to the list. Chock it up to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which seem to curb inflammation and help keep the digestive system running smoothly. Fish is also an excellent source of protein that's much leaner than red meat, so it’s a lot easier to digest. To get your fill, eat fatty coldwater fish like wild salmon, tuna or herring at least twice a week.

We also recommend supplementing the omega-3s you get from your diet with a product like Schiff® Omega-3 Fish Oil. Each easy-to-swallow softgel contains high levels of both DHA and EPA fatty acids. And they're enteric coated to eliminate any fishy smell or aftertaste.

Pineapple
You might not realize it, but eating this tangy, tropical fruit may be good for your digestive health. That's because it contains a compound called bromelain, which is rich in protein-digesting enzymes. In addition to its role in digestion, bromelain is being studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. Pineapple is also an excellent source of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant. To reap the health benefits of pineapple, try having a few slices at the end of a meal.

Along with eating enzyme-rich foods like pineapple, try supplementing your diet with Schiff® Super Enzymall®. It's formulated with a variety of enzymes and other ingredients to aid digestion and break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

Herbs and Spices
While you might think herbs and spices just give your favorite foods more flavor, many of them are also loaded with health benefits. And a surprising number of them help support digestive health. Here are some of our favorites:

• Garlic helps stimulate digestion and also boasts properties that support intestinal health. For a highly concentrated source of garlic, try Schiff® Odorless Garlic, which is designed to give the benefits of garlic without the odor associated with it.


• Turmeric acts as a natural antiseptic but won't disrupt the delicate balance of healthy bacteria in the intestine.


• Basil, rosemary and allspice have soothing properties that can help ease occasional minor cases of indigestion.


• Parsley and cayenne help stimulate digestion naturally.

Lemons
Adding lemon juice to your favorite recipes can give them some zing, but that's not all. Lemons also have some surprising health benefits. In addition to Vitamin C, a natural antiseptic, they contain enzymes that support good digestion. In fact, some studies suggest that drinking lemon water can help ease occasional heartburn and other minor digestive troubles. Lemon juice also triggers salivation, helping the body to break down foods more efficiently.

It's normal to have an occasional bout of indigestion or heartburn. But by watching what you eat, you can help keep your digestive system working like it should. For more suggestions on eating for good health, keep exploring www.schiffvitamins.com.