A healthy digestive system is important because the digestive system interacts with every other system in the body.

Many things can affect digestive health: dietary choices, stress, medicines such as antibiotics, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy of the abdominal or pelvic area, pain killers and antibiotics may disrupt the healthy bacteria and lining cells of our large intestines, which are needed for good digestion.

The following may help you to reduce digestive problems:

• Be as relaxed as possible when you eat.
• Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly to assist digestion.
• Include fermented foods such as live yoghurt, sauerkraut and miso paste or take a probiotic supplement. They may provide beneficial bacteria to support gut health. You may need to avoid these during chemotherapy treatment; ask your medical team for advice.
• Use herbs and spices as teas or in cooking, e.g. fennel, peppermint, ginger, chamomile, caraway, cardamom.
• If digestive problems continue, seek support and advice from a health professional.