Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
5 Tips for GI Discomfort During the Holidays
Paula Gallagher on
Holiday season is upon us, which means parties, get-togethers and lots of overindulging. Overeating or feasting on foods that you do not eat on a regular basis can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, heartburn and abdominal pressure. Don’t let indigestion or GI discomfort put a damper on your holiday cheer. Below are some of my favorite remedies for easing gas and bloating.
1. Digestive herbs: Bitter formulas, such as Pathway Digest-Ease, contain a combination of herbs such as gentian, ginger, Oregon grape, fennel and peppermint, which can provide immediate support for GI distress, such as gas, bloating and stomach pain. These herbs stimulate the body’s ability to secrete more digestive juices to enhance digestion. I recommend taking about 30 drops in a small amount of water just before eating a meal.
2. Digestive enzymes: Enzyme supplements, such as Pathway Superzymes, help the body absorb certain foods more efficiently and can aid digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. This formula contains hydrochloric acid (HCl) for extra support, boosting stomach acid levels to help with protein digestion and ox bile to aid in fat digestion.
3. Ginger / mint tea: Drinking a cup or two of a hot herbal digestive tea after meals is a great way to promote healthy digestion and ease stomach distress. Peppermint, fennel or ginger based teas are particularly helpful for indigestion, gas, and relieving a sense of fullness. These herbs help to promote the flow of digestive juices and are pleasant tasting. I particularly like Traditional Medicinals Eater's Digest Tea.
4. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL): DGL is an excellent herb to help soothe mucous membranes of the esophagus. DGL has antispasmodic action, which means that it helps to control various muscle actions that can affect your digestive tract. It also helps reduce acid reflux by calming a cramping stomach. A chewable form is best. Chew one to two tablets and let them dissolve in your mouth. You can also do this before your meal if you know that you are going to indulge.
5. Ginger: Keep ginger candy on hand. Ginger relaxes the smooth muscle along the walls of the esophagus and improves overall digestion. Chew a small amount slowly and see how you feel. If you still have heartburn after 10 minutes, take another small piece and chew again. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to avoid this because ginger packs a lot of heat.
Beyond using these natural remedies, other helpful tips to combat indigestion include taking a walk after eating, doing gentle stretching and deep breathing. Taking measures to support your digestive system on a daily basis can also help with optimal digestive health. Eating fiber rich foods, avoiding/limiting processed foods, eating slowly and mindfully, as well as taking a high-potency, multi-strain probiotic supplement such as Pathway 35 Billion Probiotic, are all great ways to promote ongoing GI wellness.
Photo from here, with thanks.
Categories
Categories
Humanized Health - NEW!
Learn about personalized health from top experts! Check out our fascinating new shows every week, available as videos, podcasts and transcripts.:
Our Bloggers
-
Paula Gallagher
Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
read more.. -
Margo Gladding
Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
read more.. -
Dr. Neal Barnard
Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
read more.. -
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
read more.. -
Debi Silber
Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
read more..
SEE ALL OF OUR BLOGGERS
Invalid password
Enter
Learning Resources
Consultations
Green Initiatives
Pharmacy/Compounding
Humanized Health
Village Green Blog
Stay Connected
Village Green Apothecary
5415 W Cedar Ln
Bethesda, Maryland, 20814
(301) 530-0800
Toll Free: (800) 869-9159
The information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for advice or treatment from a qualified physician, nor is it intended to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Consult your physician prior to starting any new health program or if you any questions regarding a medical condition.
© 2023 Village Green Apothecary - All Rights Reserved.