Natural relief for digestive problems

Flatulence, Indigestion, Heartburn and Low Stomach Acidity

Flatulence is an excess of gas in the digestive tract, particularly the stomach and intestines which can cause bloating and abdominal pain, excessive belching and passing wind. It is normal for a certain amount of gas to end up in the digestive system however, have an excessive gas may be an indication of a medical condition such as lactose intolerance or inflammatory bowel disease.

What causes flatulence?

There are several factors that can cause an excess of gas in the digestive system. Certain foods in the diet are known to increase gas and flatulence. Some of the most notorious foods for producing excess gas are vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli (cruciferous vegetables), beans, pulses and whole grains, carbonated beverages and most foods that are high in dietary fiber, especially refined fiber.

Smoking, chewing gum, badly fitted dentures, eating in a hurry or being nervous or anxious can all increase the amount of air that a person swallows and, in turn, lead to flatulence and the associated symptoms.

When proper digestion is hampered by disorders like IBS, Crohn’s disease or any deficiency in normal digestive enzymes, flatulence is a common result as excess gas is produced by the gut. Lactose intolerance is also particularly known for causing wind as these individuals lack the enzyme for breaking down lactose - a sugar found in milk and dairy products.

Another cause of excess digestive gas is Candida overgrowth in the gut. Candida is an organism that occurs naturally in the digestive tract, but can multiply under certain conditions resulting in Candida overgrowth and an imbalance in intestinal flora. Candida releases a large number of toxins, resulting in intestinal gas, fatigue and fungal infections like thrush. Causes of Candida overgrowth include antibiotic use, excessive dietary sugar and weakened immune functioning.

Heartburn: One cause of heartburn is a condition called hiatus hernia. With this condition, a small portion of the stomach gets caught in the sphincter that separates the esophagus from the stomach. Another cause of heartburn can be too little stomach acid. Supplementing with betaine HC1 relieves the symptoms of heartburn and improves digestion. Betaine HC1 is derived from beet molasses, providing natural hydrochloric acid to supplement body secretions and is contained in Food Enzymes that contain enough acid and digestive enzymes to digest 195 grams of protein.

One of the major tasks of stomach acid is to break proteins down to the point that pancreatic proteolytic enzymes can easily work. If this does not occur, these proteins might be absorbed in more complicated chains. This malabsorption has been suggested by some researchers to be a major cause of immunological stress and food allergies.

In addition, partially digested protein provides a favorable environment for “unfriendly” bacteria that live in the colon. Some of these bacteria produce toxic substances that can be absorbed by the body.

Stomach Acidity Many minerals and vitamins require proper stomach acid to be absorbed optimally—examples are iron, calcium, zinc, and B-complex vitamins, including folic acid. People with achlorhydria (no stomach acid) or hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid) may be at risk for developing certain mineral deficiencies which can lead to health problems. Minerals are important not only for body structure (such as bones and teeth) but also activate enzymes (such as superoxide dismutase) and hormones (such as insulin).

Indigestion: Lactose intolerance can cause many digestive problems, including gas, cramps, and diarrhea; in such cases, the lactase enzyme can be helpful when taken before consuming dairy products. Pancreatic enzymes, which include lipase, which aids in the digestion of fats and acts as a digestive aid.

Probiotics, such as acidophilus or Bifidophilus promote healthy digestion. Enzymes secreted by probiotic bacteria also aid digestion. Acidophilus is a source of lactase enzyme, which is needed to digest milk but is lacking in lactose-intolerant individuals.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS THAT MAY BE HELPFUL:

Various herbs known as carminatives have been used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, particularly when there is excessive gas. Carminative agents work, at least in part, by relieving spasms in the intestinal tract. Among the most notable of these are peppermint, fennel, and caraway. Alternately drink four ounces of water to which you’ve added a single drop of peppermint oil.

Another potentially beneficial category of herbs for indigestion and/or low stomach acid are bitters. They stimulate digestive function by increasing saliva production and promoting both stomach acid and digestive enzyme production.

Herbs classified as bitters are dandelion, blessed thistle, yarrow, devil’s claw, yellow dock, goldenseal and Oregon grape. Besides stimulating digestion studies indicate yarrow, barberry and Oregon grape may relieve spasms in the intestinal tract.

The culinary herb turmeric relieved indigestion problems in a double blind study.

Artemisia Combination contains Wormwood, Ginger, Spearmint and Tumeric in addition with other herbs that helps maintain healthy digestive function and also aids in the relief of indigestion.

Chamomile is effective in relieving inflamed or irritated mucous membranes of the digestive tract. Since heartburn sometimes involves reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, the anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile are also useful. In addition, chamomile promotes normal digestion.

Licorice Root protects the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract by increasing production of mucin, a substance that protects against stomach acid and other harmful substances.

Digestive bitter tonic – Useful in convalescence and general stress associated with digestive problem. Enhances the secretion of digestive juices in the body, improving the absorption of nutrient.

Papaya Mint tablets (chewable and delicious) – Papaya fruit contains an enzyme called papain that can break down proteins, while peppermint contains aromatic compounds that trigger the production of digestive fluids. They can also be used as a tasty breath mint.

Activated charcoal - is well known for its positive effect on digestion, including treatment of flatulence and wind. It is excellent for absorbing excess gas and toxins in the body and is particularly effective for individuals who suffer from indigestion, sporadic constipation and diarrhea, sour belching, wind and bloating. This remedy will stimulate healthy digestion and circulation and will even relieve fatigue.

Peppermint Oil - simply add a couple of drops in a glass of water for a digestive aid. Put a touch of peppermint Oil on the temples to help with a headache.

Catnip & Fennel - Catnip & Fennel liquid is a synergistic combination of two time-honored botanicals that primarily support digestion.

Ginger – research confirms its effectiveness in relieving the symptoms of indigestion, flatulence and nausea. Ginger works mostly in the digestive system by boosting digestive juices and strengthening the process of digestion. Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties which soothes and settles the stomach. It can also be used to relieve nausea and vomiting. Ginger also has been beneficial on headaches.

Food enzymes - most processed foods lack the enzymes needed for proper digestion. This formulation supplements the body s production of these enzymes.

Anti-Gas Formula - contains a special blend of herbs that support digestion, assist the body to expel intestinal gas and quell occasional nausea.

Chlorophyll - may help to neutralize the acidity and deodorize the body.

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