It never ceases to amaze us in our naturopathic medical practices how many individuals come in for an office visit complaining of symptoms that they dont realize are related to digestive health. In fact, a large number of the patients we see are constipated, yet they often dont realize that their lack of regularity may be impacting several other aspects of their overall health.

The relationship between digestive function and health is so intertwined that researches studying conditions as diverse as arthritis, autism, ADHD, skin conditions, depression, and decreased cognitive function have found an undeniable association between these conditions and gastrointestinal health.

The digestive tract constitutes a significant component of our immune system. Its one of the main routes of exposure from the outside world because it is in constant contact with the foods we eat and microbes, toxins, and pesticides from our environment. The gastrointestinal system acts as both a physical barrier against harmful agents from a structural standpoint, and an immunological barrier as the site of production for immunoglobulins and other immune proteins, which defend against potential infections.

Given the all-important role our digestive tract plays, its important to understand what it takes to keep this system functioning at the top of its game.

Products That Can Help

There are many products that can aid in maintaining digestive health. Among them are the following:

Thorne Research Medibulk This product provides supplemental soluble fiber as a combination of psyllium powder, prune powder, and apple pectin. Soluble fiber has mucilaginous properties and provides bulk for bowel movements, which can ultimately enhance intestinal health by removing toxins. Supplementing with these sources of fiber may have cardiovascular benefits as they can lower cholesterol levels.

Doctors Best: Best Digestive Enzymes and Betaine HCl Pepsin & Gentian Bitters These products complement one another nicely. Best Digestive Enzymes contain vegetarian fungal-derived enzymes that are active at a wide pH range and are therefore not inactivated by stomach acid. They support the proper digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Betaine HCl Pepsin & Gentian Bitters is a supplemental source of hydrochloric acid (HCl), as stomach-acid secretion often decreases as a result of aging and other factors. The product also contains pepsin, an enzyme produced by the body to break down proteins in the stomach, which works as a complement to stomach acid. Gentian bitters function to stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes.

Ganeden Biotechs Digestive Advantage and Sustenex These products contain GanedenBC30, a novel lactic acid-producing probiotic that has the advantage of high survivability with exposure to process conditions, heat, and stomach acids. These products have been clinically shown to promote digestive and immune health. Supplemental probiotic bacteria help support the bodys own friendly bacteria, which produce numerous beneficial by-products and play critical roles in the functioning of the bodys digestive process and immune response to pathogenic bacteria and viruses.

Cell Nutritionals Constant Health This is a comprehensive digestive and immune-support formula with a base of brown rice protein powder that is designed to be taken as a shake. It contains several types of fiber, including red raspberry seeds, apple fiber and cellulose, anti-inflammatory herbs such as turmeric and boswellia, anti-oxidants such as grape seed extract and Nacetyl cysteine, a host of essential vitamins and minerals, along with other nutrients to promote intestinal health, immune wellness, and optimal detoxification.

Ritter Nutritions Better Digestion To avoid health problems and help the digestive system, avoid unhealthy foods and consume an adequate amount of dietary fiber. One can supplement this with friendly probiotic bacteria that helps protect the intestinal flora and take digestive enzyme supplements. One such product that offers both, as well as beneficial herbal extracts is Better Digestion. Better Digestion is a natural daily supplement designed specifically to enhance overall digestive health, bowel function and wellness. It contains Lactobacillis Acidophilus, Bifidobactierum Bifidum, and Bacillus Coagulans, Three essential probiotics that strengthen the microflora in the small intestine and improve overall digestion. Ginger Root and Chamomile Herbs that help calm and soothe the irritation in the digestive system are also found along with Amylase, a powerful enzyme that reduces the amount of stress on the digestive system, by assisting in the breakdown of food.

Purity Products TriGest ZC This formula features PepZin GI zinc L-carnosine, a zinc complex that has been studied for years in Japan for its ability to heal ulcers and inhibit mucosal inflammation caused by H. pylori. By decreasing gastric inflammation, it allows the tissue of the stomach wall to heal. In addition, this product contains broad-spectrum digestive enzymes to support digestive function and the probiotic is a unique strain of Bacillus coagulans, a beneficial bacterium that transiently populates the intestinal tract and restores a healthy bacterial balance.

Dietary Habits

Proper dietary habits can lead to optimal functioning of the digestive tract. However, improper dietary habits, toxins, and microbes from our environment can lead to crucial digestive deficits that can ultimately be a contributing factor to a variety of diseases. Consuming adequate dietary fiber is an important step in establishing a healthy digestive system. Fiber also confers protection against colon cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Beyond fiber, there are several factors that aid in maintaining digestive health. These include promoting a healthy bacterial balance in the intestines by supplementing with beneficial probiotic organisms, supporting the structural integrity of gut tissue by consuming nutrients that provide fuel for cellular health, and maintaining optimal digestive enzyme and stomach acid production to help with proper digestion of foods. By addressing these fundamentals, one can ensure that digestive function remains optimal. Good digestive health is a harbinger of good overall health. As someone once said, “The road to health is paved with good intestines.”

Fiber and Digestive Health

Fiber is a major component of whole plant foods such as nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Since fiber cannot be digested, it passes through the digestive system intact.

There are two types of fiber in general soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance due to its polysaccharides. It consists of the gums and pectins and is found in fruits, vegetables, and beans.

Insoluble fiber, or cellulose, does not dissolve in water. Whole grains, as well as vegetables, are the most common source of insoluble fiber. Because soluble fiber turns into a gel-like substance and slows the digestive process, it allows for nutrients to be absorbed more slowly. It also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose from the diet.

Soluble fiber can benefit cholesterol levels by absorbing the cholesterol and lipids present in the digestive tract, causing them to be excreted. Insoluble fiber acts as a cleanser. Since it cant be dissolved, it functions to regulate digestive function by keeping the intestines clean of toxins and waste products as well as providing the bulking you need to prevent constipation. Fiber also regulates appetite by increasing satiety. Both types of fiber are necessary for digestive health.

Fiber as a Prebiotic

Several types of soluble fiber such as inulin and oligosaccharides have health benefits resulting from their prebiotic effects. As prebiotics, they support the growth and health of several species of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Although humans dont digest dietary fiber, several bacterial strains thrive by fermenting prebiotics. Healthy bacteria, including the important Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, preferentially metabolize inulin and oligosaccharides. An added benefit of this metabolism is the production of several short-chain fatty acids, which are beneficial for colon health and which can actually increase the absorption of minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

The end result, contributing to the health of the beneficial bacterial species, is repopulation of the gastrointestinal tract, pushing out any potentially pathogenic bacterial and yeast species, as well as an overall reduction in guy inflammation due to the immune system support.

Fiber further contributes to healing from gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, and diarrhea. It also aids in healing Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as effects of infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Nutritional Outlook. May 2009

The small intestines are made of three parts: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. The duodenum is short—only about 30 centimeters—but the jejunum runs about two meters long and the ileum is another three meters in length. The intestine is a contorted tube about two to three centimeters in diameter. Throughout the inside of the intestines are finger-like protrusions called villi. These villi are lined with blood and lymph vessels to absorb the nutrients.

Enzymatically and Probiotically

In between the villi are glands that secrete bile and bile salts from the liver via the gallbladder, and various enzymes from the pancreas. Together these biochemicals change the pH of the food mix from the stomach and break down the nutrients to be absorbed. Proteins are broken down to polypeptides (amino acids) by protease. Fats are broken down to glycerol and fatty acids by lipase. Lactose is broken down into glucose and galactose by lactase—just to name a few.

Should our pancreas be burdened or stressed, it will not produce enough enzymes. When the body is in stress mode, hormones and blood goes elsewhere, leaving the pancreas in low gear. For this reason, it is important to relax when we eat. Otherwise, our food might end up significantly undigested.

Enzyme production can decrease with age. For example, lactase production can slow down as our bodies get older. This is natural. However, this doesnt necessarily mean we are lactose-intolerant. In fact, a recent study showed that most people claiming to be lactose-intolerant could drink at least one glass of milk a day without any problems. Prevailing opinion is that many suspect lactose intolerance simply because lactase production slows down a bit. Low lactase doesnt mean we have to stop consuming dairy either. Cheese and yogurt also contain lactase and lactase-producing cultures.

For conditions related to cramping and indigestion, first consider not drinking fluids with meals. This will better concentrate the enzymes. Beyond that, enzymes and probiotic supplementation should be considered. Enzyme supplements are readily available in broad mixes, and should be taken with meals. Probiotics are microorganisms that live in between our villi. They help us break down and assimilate certain nutrients, also helping us defend against invading bacteria. They also secrete critical nutrients such as vitamin B12. The Lactobacillus, Streptococcus and Saccharomyces families are the more prolific probiotic inhabitants in the upper intestines. These are also readily available in supplement or live yogurts and kefir. Probiotics should also be taken with or shortly after meals.

The Gall

Our gallbladder stages and times the release of bile and salts from the liver into the intestines as needed—especially useful for fat digestion. Without the gallbladder, bile infusion doesnt time with our meals. The liver produces bile as it recycles its filtered components from the blood and lymph. This means if the body has imbalanced calcium, cholesterol and other nutrient levels, the gallbladder may crystallize the excessive components into gallstones. The best way to prevent gallstones is to eat a well-balanced plant-based diet with plenty of fiber, and plenty of water in between meals.

Fiber is also extremely critical for proper digestion. This is because fiber regulates the absorption process. It does this by absorbing excess water, allowing enzymes to be more concentrated, while softening undigestables headed for stool. Without both soluble and insoluble fiber, starches will be broken down and assimilated quickly. As the glucose hits the bloodstream, it stimulates insulin production from the pancreas. This avalanche stresses the pancreas and the cells. This creates insulin and glucose insensitivity, encouraging obesity and type II diabetes.

Professional consensus suggests 25 grams of fiber a day at the bare minimum, but 40-50 grams per day is recommended with at least 50-75% soluble. The average American diet contains no more than about 12-15 grams of fiber. Great fiber choices include apples, oats, whole wheat, and vegetables. Every meal should have 5-15 grams of fiber. Low fiber meals stress the bodys resources, and increase the likelihood of obesity, heart disease, and blood sugar problems.

Healthy fats from nuts and seeds are also helpful in balancing glucose absorption. Because fats are broken down slowly, a meal with a little healthy fat will time release absorption, giving us a steady stream of energy instead of the roller-coaster insulin-glucose ride.

Research has illustrated that the healthiest mix of fats is about 10% saturated; 10% gamma linoleic acid (GLA); about 40% long chain omega-3 fatty acids such as alpha linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA); and 40% healthy omega-6 unrefined oils from nuts, sesame and sunflower seeds, olives and canola. GLA is found in green leafy vegetables, spirulina, borage and primrose oil. ALA found in walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flax, chia, salba and canola will convert to the longer DHA and EPA. For some the conversion is difficult, however, requiring the need to obtain DHA from fish, or even better, golden micro-algae. The DHA from micro-algae doesnt have the mercury, saturated fat and toxins like PCBs seen in both farmed and wild fish. Plus, it is a renewable source.

The “Stitch”

The runners “stitch” is caused by our intestinal villi pulling blood from the surrounding abdominal muscles for nutrient absorption just after we eat. As blood is diverted, less oxygen and glucose gets to surrounding muscles. Other muscle groups in the legs and arms can also cramp for the same reason after a meal. The best way to relieve an abdominal stitch is to bend over and firmly push into and rub the painful area. This draws blood into that muscle group, relieving the cramp. Even better: work out on an empty stomach.

Copyright 2008, Realnatural, Inc.

For the severest acid reflux cases, or the more serious GERD, these over-the-counter remedies will not work. You need to look out for any side effects that may occur if you have been using antacids for a long period of time.

If your physician has diagnosed you with acid reflux then it’s recommended that you visit him on a regular basis even if you think that the problem is gone. Also, it’s very important that you tell your healthcare provider what herbal treatments you were using to cure your condition because this will help make a correct evaluation.

The treatment of acid reflux may be dependent on if the stomach acid is volatile. Sometimes it ends up volatile, for whatever reason, and you need to calm it down. I’ve found that vinegar works well because of the natural enzymes. Just add more vinegar based food to your diet and you’ll be all set.

One can always deal with the gastric acid reflux disease in an effective manner, that is to say, if the disease has not reached a very bad stage. If you remain aware of yourself and employ proper measures to tackle this problem, you will get well soon.

As well as using herbal teas, another well known herbal treatment for acid reflux is chicory root which can also help to treat other digestive problems as well. This particular herb can easily be found in either your local health food store or grocery store as well as being available for purchase online.

The most common heartburn and acid reflux symptoms in women are the same for men, other than those found during the pregnancy. These would include, but not limited to, a burning sensation behind the chest plate that intensifies when bending over or stooping down, problems swallowing, an irritated throat and a scratchy sounding voice, a gassy feeling coupled with burping and an upset stomach.

Another option of treatment for acid reflux disease is vinegar. It has natural enzymes that calm the stomach acid. Obviously you can’t just drink bottles of vinegar; you need to add it into your diet. The vinegar based products like salad dressing and ketchup that you add in, the less likely you’re going to experience any form of acid reflux.

Creating home remedies for acid reflux is easy if you have the required ingredients. Things like cabbage, pineapples, papaya and vegetables are usually important elements that are used to make ginger root, apple cider vinegar and things like that. It should be reminded that these home remedies may only fix your problems temporary. If you are still facing acid reflux issues, then you are suggested to seek doctors’ advice for long term treatment.

Heartburn is a very unpleasant condition but if you’re patient, you can forget about the symptoms very fast. I recommend you try these herbal acid reflux remedies but as always, make sure you consult your doctor first before proceeding.