A couple of weeks ago, I gave a real life example illustrating the real dangers of our over the counter digestion medications. After that, you may have thought that I left you hanging. You may have been thinking, “Ok Beth. I have digestion issues. Now what do I do?” No worries. I am going to outline some tried and true natural options, which I have either personally experienced or have witnessed client treatment success.
Ginger stimulates digestive juices and enzymes flow. It is effective for preventing/reducing nausea, vomiting, flatulence, indigestion, bloating and diarrhea. It has carminative (gas-relieving), antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties which are key to ginger’s digestive effectiveness. When utilizing this for digestive issues, focus on utilizing ginger as a strong, concentrated tea, consuming fresh ginger root, or utilizing concentrated pure ginger oil.Using ginger powder occasionally in your cooking practices will not produce the desired digestive relief.
I can’t emphasize enough how important a high quality probiotic is to your overall health. Please refer to my probiotic series through this link: https://mindfulmedicinegirl.com/2017/06/29/probiotics-yes-no-part-1-3/
Probiotics restore the natural balance of your gut bacteria. They can help treat and prevent digestion problems such as diarrhea, abdominal bloating, flatulence, and IBS. I lean more towards a supplement versus a food source for significant digestive issues.
Peppermint can calm an upset digestive system and accelerate healing because peppermint possesses carminative, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes peppermint an excellent option for treating gas, bloating, intestinal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Peppermint has been studied and shown to improve symptoms for those suffering form IBS. When utilizing this for digestive issues, focus on utilizing peppermint as a strong, concentrated tea, consuming fresh peppermint leaves, or utilizing concentrated pure peppermint oil. Peppermint can be consumed up to four times a day for a few weeks while active symptoms are present.
Remember, some natural options require regular consistent use to get the desired effect. Others can be utilized at the onset of symptoms. Depending on the severity and frequency of your symptoms, you may choose to use multiple options, but its always wise to start with one and see how you well you tolerate the natural product. I also can’t stress enough, the importance of using high quality products for maximum benefit. Spending a little more for good products, can make a world of difference.
Next week, I will finish this series off with the second set of three natural options for digestive issues. See you then!