Simple ways to support digestion during chronic or acute illness
Struggling with digestion, fatigue, or food sensitivities? Learn which foods support gut health—especially for those living with chronic illness.
Easiest Foods to Digest
When your gut isn’t functioning well, focus on foods that are easy to break down and absorb:
- Bone broth (benefits) or Beiler broth
- Soups + stews (chicken soup, pho)
- Congee or soft grains
- Cooked vegetables (instead of raw)
- Soft, simple whole foods
Tip: Cooked and blended foods are often much easier for the body to process.
Food Preparation Matters
How food is prepared can make a significant difference in how well you tolerate it:
Easiest → Hardest to Digest:
- Soup / broth-based
- Stewed or slow-cooked
- Roasted to Fried
Example: Chicken soup → roasted chicken → fried chicken
When to Scale Back
In times of acute illness (such as diverticulitis or pancreatitis), your digestive system may need rest.
- Clear fluids only may be recommended
- Temporary bowel rest may be necessary
- Always follow medical guidance in these situations
If food isn’t tolerated: Physician-supervised elemental nutrition may be used
(must be monitored for safety and adequate nutrition)
Nutrition Basics for Chronic Illness
When living with chronic illness, the goal is not restriction—it’s meeting your body’s foundational needs:
- Adequate protein, fats, and carbohydrates
- Essential vitamins and minerals
- Consistent nourishment to support energy and repair
Truth: Your body needs the right ingredients to carry out critical biochemical processes.
Fiber: Go Slow + Stay Hydrated
Fiber is important—but timing and pacing matter.
- Aim for ~25g/day long term
- Increase gradually, especially if digestion is inflamed
- Drink plenty of water
Too much too quickly can lead to discomfort or constipation
A Supportive Approach to Food
Diet can be a sensitive topic. A more helpful perspective: There is no such thing as a “bad” food.
All food provides some kind of value. Focus on:
- Getting enough nutrition
- Supporting your body’s needs
- Reducing stress around food choices
A Simple Place to Start
When digestion feels off, simplicity helps.
“When my intestines aren’t doing their job, I stick to soups. Pho is one of my go-tos—it provides nutrients from bone broth and has that comfort factor that makes a difference.”
— Dr. Alicia Hart
When to Seek Support
It may be time to take a closer look at your gut health if you’re experiencing:
- Ongoing bloating or discomfort
- Fatigue after eating
- Food sensitivities
- Difficulty maintaining energy
Integrative Medicine with Dr. Alicia Hart
Personalized care to support digestion, inflammation, and whole-body health
NW Regen
We offer regenerative and interventional medicine – tailored to empower you with a more vibrant, active lifestyle.
