The digestive system can sometimes use a little bit of assistance when it comes to breaking down the foods that we eat.  Our best bet is to eat whole foods, mostly plants, and not too much.  We also want to ensure we’re getting enough fibre and water in our diet so that we can move foods through the system.

Nature is so abundant and wonderful, and gives us little helpful tools to break down the foods that we love.  Let’s take a look at a few great ones.

Papaya: This fruit contains an enzyme called papain which helps to break down proteins! It is one of the fruits that is the exception to the “don’t mix fruit and protein” rule.  It can help with conditions such as indigestion and diarrhea. (it’s also high in folic acid for any expecting mamas!)

Pineapple: This fruit contains an enzyme called bromelain, which, like papain, helps to break down proteins (proteolytic enzyme).  This fruit can help with digestion and also decrease inflammation!

Mint: This is a fantastic carminative (stimulates peristalsis – colon contractions) and digestive herb that can help with IBS.  It also happens to be anti-cancer and antioxidant!

Fennel: This digestive vegetable is an intestinal antispasmodic (relieves intestinal spasms or cramps), a carminative, and a pain reliever.  This is a powerful combo of digestive assistance and it’s no wonder Italians like to eat it at the end of a meal!  It also helps to balance estrogen (this is super helpful for anyone with an estrogen imbalance).

So it only makes sense that we make a big delicious salad out of these digestive superstars, right?

Ingredients

• 1/4 papaya (chopped)
• 1/4 cored pineapple (chopped)
• 1 fennel bulb (julienne or diced)
• 5 large mint leaves (diced)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• pinch of sea salt

Method

• chop and dice all ingredients
• toss them in a bowl with lemon juice and sea salt
• enjoy as a digestive dessert!
• serves 2-4