ÔSIMPLE REMEDIES FOR INDIGESTIONÕ
It seems thereÕs a whole lot of
serious bellyaching going on out there judging by the profits the drug
companies are making with the promise of relief from indigestion, heartburn and
other common digestive complaints. While medications do have their place in the
treatment of digestive disturbances it seems that once again Americans are too
willing to reach for a pill instead of addressing the issue of poor quality
food and too much food thrown in on top of a hectic life style. No wonder our
stomach is complaining.
I have found that most individuals
think that eating a healthy diet that wonÕt kill your belly means bland foods
devoid of taste and texture. Nothing could be further from the truth. Spices,
raw whole foods, nuts, fresh fruits are all possible and some actually ease
digestive disturbances. The next time you find yourself suffering with
indigestion try these tips before reaching for the Rolaids.
Digestive enzymes should be part of everyoneÕs diet after about the age
of 35. Studies show most individuals with minor to serious digestive
disturbances are seriously lacking in enzymes, which can cause nausea, gas,
bloating, diarrhea, constipation and heartburn. Too much cooked food devoid of enzymes leaves the entire intestinal
tract struggling.
Ginger has been used since ancient times as a digestive aid and is
a healing agent for the entire digestive tract. Use ginger to spice up beef or
chicken or sip a cup of ginger tea after a large meal to boost digestion and
relieve nausea or indigestion.
Peppermint tea can help relieve indigestion caused by overeating.
This herb helps relax the smooth muscles found in the stomach and intestines
and relieves that terrible feeling of nausea that comes with serious
overeating.
Chamomile tea is another old time herb that is wonderful for
nausea, indigestion and heartburn. This herb is very similar to peppermint in
that it helps relax the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines. One word
of caution- if you are allergic to ragweed chose something other than chamomile
since it is a member of the ragweed family.
Other helpful tummy tips:
Eliminate caffeinated beverages (slowly) from your diet. Caffeine
increases stomach acid, gas and intestinal cramping. Studies show that consuming
more than three cups of coffee a day increases H. pylori in the stomach- the bacteria known for causing stomach
ulcers.
DonÕt smoke. Smoking also stimulates an over production of stomach
acid, and weakens the muscles in the stomach causing food to leak out of the
stomach before it is completely digested.
Eat smaller meals- 4-5 daily. Large meals overload the stomach
and can force stomach acid and food back up into the esophagus causing
heartburn and esophageal reflux disease.
Identify your personal trigger foods. Different foods affect
different people in different ways so take the time to pinpoint what sets off
your indigestion. Some more common triggers are fatty foods, fried foods,
citrus fruits, carbonated beverages and dairy products.
These natural products will not
only ease your symptoms but will boost energy, immunity and longevity via
proper assimilation of foods. Why take a drug that will only mask symptoms when
you can relieve the cause? Till next time, Rebecca.
6/19/08