Indigestion
Indigestion
is a general term used to cover a wide range of digestive problems,
including dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, regurgitation and globus
sensation (the feeling of having a lump in the throat).
Dyspepsia is
a discomfort in the upper abdomen accompanied by having gas, belching,
loud intestinal sounds and a feeling of fullness. Other symptoms
include a poor appetite, nausea, constipation and diarrhea. Both
overproduction and a shortage of stomach acid can cause dyspepsia.
Anxiety can also cause dyspepsia probably because an anxious person tends
to gasp and swallow air, resulting in distention of the stomach and
intestine. Sometimes, dyspepsia is caused by more serious medical
conditions such as stomach and duodenal ulcers, stomach inflammation,
stomach cancer.
Nausea is an
unpleasant feeling in the abdomen. Vomiting is the forceful
expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth. Nausea and vomiting
can be caused by eating irritating substance, traveling in a boat or car,
taking some drugs and other medical conditions involving the stomach,
intestine and gallbladder.
Regurgitation is the spitting up of food from the esophagus without nausea
or forceful abdominal muscle contractions. Regurgitation is often
caused by acid reflux or blockage of the esophagus.
Globus
sensation is the sensation of having a lump in the throat when there is no
lump. It is caused by abnormal muscle activity and sensitivity of
the esophagus and aggravated by frequent swallowing and drying of
the throat or rapid breathing.
Chronic
indigestion needs medical diagnosis and treatment. Simple and
occasional indigestion can be helped with eating small and frequent meals,
taking time to eat, chewing food thoroughly and taking some food
supplements that can aid digestion.
Food
supplements for indigestion:
Digestive enzymes (bromelain,
papain, amylase, proteases, lipases)
Bromelain, papain and proteases are enzymes
that aid in the breakdown of protein. Amylase and lipase help the
digestion of starch and fat. These enzymes assist food digestion and
reduce gas and bloating.
Probiotics (Acidophilus,
Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium)
Probiotics
are beneficial bacteria found in the gut. Supplementation of
probiotics maintains the proper ratio of gut flora and aids digestion.
Garlic
Aids in digestion and destroys harmful
bacteria in the intestine.
Chamomile
A herb that is soothing to the digestive
tract, also helps dispel gas. Good for upset stomach and
indigestion.
Ginger
Stimulates digestion, prevents motion sickness
and nausea. Ginger helps move food through the digestive tract.
Fennel
Stimulates digestion and relieves gas.
Peppermint
Calming effect on the digestive tract.
Do not use if you have heartburn as peppermint relaxes the valve between
the stomach and the esophagus.
Source Naturals, Daily Essential Enzymes
Garden of Life, Primal Defense
(use code "WAN045" - get $5 off your first order)
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