In this blog, I outline some effective natural help for digestive problems including naturopathic medicines used to treat a host of gut problems.
- Medicated clay such as Toxaprevent is a firm favourite in combination with antibacterial herbs for Helicobactor (H-pylori) gut bacterial infections.
- Parasitic cleanses such as MediHerb’s Wormwood complex, Mimosa pudica and Neem are exceptional anti-parasitic formulas if parasites are contributing to your gut problems.
- My detox cocktail works like an ‘intestinal broom’ with the healing benefits of aloe vera to boot.
- Probiotics have an important role to play, as an imbalance of gut microflora can be behind a variety of issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, and diarrhoea. In a study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, patients with IBS reported a significant reduction in abdominal pain and distension when they were treated with probiotics. Different probiotic strains have different effects, so seek professional advice.
- Indigestion, bloating, and acid reflex can often be eliminated with digestive enzyme supplements, which assist the breakdown and correct digestion of food and enhance nutrient absorption. I often prescribe a formula such as Biomedica’s Phytozyme or a Betaine HCL product which work on the digestion of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
- Gut healing nutrients such as glutamine are critical for repair of damaged gut cells and reducing inflammation. I find the combination of glutamine with the herb slippery elm to be a really powerful and effective healing combination for irritated gut lining and inflammation in the digestive tract. Slippery elm is a natural fibre source and demulcent, meaning it coats and soothes the digestive tract. Add slippery elm powder to a morning smoothie for an easy fibre boost. MediHerb also manufacture a superior quality capsule form.
- As for herbs, dandelion root and globe artichokes are known as herbal cholagogues, meaning they stimulate the secretion of bile which in turn aids digestion, especially of fats. Cholagogues also improve and promote bowel function.
- Other examples of highly effective digestive herbs include gentian, meadowsweet, chamomile, peppermint, marshmallow, golden seal, licorice, the list goes on. Ask about my omeprazole (PPI) alternative herb mix!
- Magnesium is a powerful mineral supplement that can be extremely effective for constipation. Note that I am not talking about the laxative form, magnesium oxide, which is best avoided, but the highly bioavailable, well-absorbed forms like magnesium diglycinate or amino acid chelate that directly penetrate cells to increase hydration, thereby preventing dry stools and increasing bowel movement regularity.
So as you can see, there is a host of natural help for digestive problems!
Want to find out more about natural help for digestive problems?
Book yourself in for a consultation – find out how you can be helped!