Hi, I’m Anna. Fibre is often hailed as a digestive superfood, and for good reason—it keeps your gut moving, supports a healthy microbiome, and helps prevent stomach cramps and bloating. But, like many things in health, balance is key. While the right amount of fibre can help you feel light and comfortable, too much (or the wrong kind) can leave you feeling bloated, crampy, and sluggish.
I learned this lesson the hard way during my own journey to improve gut health. As Co-Founder of The SABI and a Product Developer, I’ve always been curious about how natural solutions can support well-being. But back when I was struggling with digestive issues, I thought the answer was simple: more fibre. I went all-in on high-fibre foods, convinced they would solve all my digestive woes. Instead, I found myself feeling more bloated than ever, with cramps that left me questioning what I was doing wrong.
It wasn’t until I started looking at the bigger picture—pairing the right kinds of fibre with proper hydration, mindful eating habits, and soothing support from The Digestive Herbata—that everything finally clicked. It wasn’t just about adding fibre; it was about creating balance in my digestive routine.
Here’s how fibre supports digestion, when it can cause problems, and how to find the sweet spot for your gut health—so you can feel lighter, more comfortable, and in tune with your body.
Why Hydration Matters for Digestion
Water isn’t just something we drink to stay alive—it’s a key player in how our digestive system functions. Without adequate hydration, the body struggles to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste effectively.
1. Water Keeps Digestion Moving
Dehydration slows gut motility, meaning food moves more slowly through your digestive tract. This can lead to constipation, gas buildup, and the uncomfortable pressure of bloating. Staying hydrated ensures that your digestive system can process food efficiently, preventing stagnation.
2. Flushes Out Excess Sodium
Excess sodium is a major contributor to water retention and bloating. Drinking water helps flush out excess salt, reducing swelling and puffiness caused by high-sodium meals.
3. Supports the Gut Lining
Adequate hydration helps maintain the mucosal lining of the digestive tract, which protects the gut and allows it to function smoothly. A healthy gut lining can reduce inflammation and bloating caused by irritation.
4. Prevents Overcompensation
Ironically, when you’re dehydrated, your body may hold onto water to prevent further loss. This can lead to bloating caused by water retention. Drinking enough water signals to your body that it can release stored fluids.
Hydrating Foods That Combat Bloating
In addition to drinking water, eating water-rich foods can enhance hydration and provide added anti-bloating benefits. Many of these foods are also rich in electrolytes, which balance fluids in your body.
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Cucumber: High water content and a natural diuretic effect.
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Watermelon: Packed with water and potassium, which helps balance sodium.
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Celery: A hydrating, low-calorie option that supports digestion.
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Oranges: Provide vitamin C and hydration in one juicy bite.
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Zucchini: A versatile vegetable that supports hydration and gut health.
Herbal Teas: A Hydration Booster with Added Benefits
While water is essential, pairing it with herbal teas provides additional benefits for digestion and bloating relief. The Digestive Herbata is a perfect example of how hydration and digestive support can go hand in hand.
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Key Ingredients in The Digestive Herbata:
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Stinging Nettles: A natural diuretic that helps flush out excess water and sodium.
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Holy Basil: Reduces stress-related bloating and inflammation.
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Moringa: Provides antioxidants and hydration support.
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Cinnamon and Cardamom: Stimulate digestion and reduce gas.
Drinking a cup after meals can provide both hydration and targeted relief for bloating.
Hydration Tips for Bloating Relief
Incorporating hydration into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple practices can make a big difference:
1. Start Your Day with Warm Water
Kickstart your digestion with a glass of warm water and a squeeze of lemon. This helps flush out toxins and hydrates your system first thing in the morning.
2. Sip Throughout the Day
Instead of chugging large amounts of water all at once, sip consistently throughout the day to support digestion and prevent bloating caused by overhydration.
3. Pair Water with Herbal Teas
Alternate plain water with hydrating teas like this anti-bloating blend for added digestive support.
4. Include Electrolytes
Add a pinch of Himalayan salt or drink coconut water to replenish electrolytes, especially after exercise or on hot days.
5. Avoid Dehydrating Beverages
Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate your body and worsen bloating.
Making Hydration a Ritual
Hydration isn’t just about the act of drinking water—it’s about creating rituals that support your body. Combining hydration with mindfulness, like sipping on a warm cup of tea after meals or starting your day with water-rich foods, can make the process feel more intentional and effective.
The Digestive Herbata is an easy addition to these rituals, offering hydration alongside a soothing blend of herbs that target bloating and cramping.
Feel Lighter, Naturally
Bloating relief doesn’t have to be complicated. By prioritising hydration and nourishing your body with water, hydrating foods, and herbal teas, you can ease discomfort and feel more balanced.
Start with something simple: a glass of water, a juicy cucumber slice, or a cup of this digestive-supporting infusion. Over time, these small, intentional choices will transform how you feel—from the inside out.
References
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"Hydration and Its Impact on Digestive Function" - Journal of Gastroenterology
https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(18)30627-4/fulltext -
"The Diuretic Effects of Stinging Nettles" - National Library of Medicine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28086901/ -
"Water and Electrolytes in Gut Health" - American Journal of Physiology
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpgi.00192.2018 -
"The Digestive Benefits of Herbal Teas" - Complementary Therapies in Medicine
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965229919300837
HORMONAL & PROUD
Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI aims to change the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.
We offer you an invitation to get to know your body and its cycles better –– an invitation to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormonal cycle to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. Look for the right sources of information. Know that there is help, and know that you’re supported.
DISCLAIMER
The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.