Many people who suffer with digestive problems may spend thousands of dollars a year on over the counter remedies such Pepto-Bismol, Maalox, other acid reducers, and various natural supplements like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and combination products. Perhaps they helped a bit, but nothing actually took care of the problem in its entirety.
The first thing someone should do if they experience poor digestion is to change their diet. Searching online will turn up a wealth of information, though much of it may be contrary. Some websites suggest that a low fat diet is best while others may promote a low carb diet. It's difficult to say which is actually best, since each person is different. For example, some people may find that foods high in sulfur, such as eggs, onions and garlic, may set off a gallbladder attack or acid reflux. Others may experience negative symptoms with acidic foods like tomatoes, lemons, limes, oranges, and the like.
Symptoms of Poor Digestion
Gallbladder and digestive pain can be quite debilitating and may last for several hours after an attack is triggered. Symptoms may include:
- indigestion
- belching after eating fatty foods
- gas after eating fatty foods
- pain in the upper-right part of the stomach or in the center of the stomach
- pain lasting up to several hours that may worsen with deep breathing
- nausea
- constipation
- diarrhea
- bloating
- vomiting
Earth Clinic Natural Remedies suggests apple cider vinegar as being helpful for digestive problems, gallbladder attacks, and more. The site recommends a quarter cup of organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. Stevia can be added for sweetness. Raw ACV is supposed to be best since it has all of the natural nutrients that pasteurized vinegar doesn’t. Many sufferers report that after drinking this mixture down the pain from a gall bladder attack, acid reflux, or digestive problems dissipated within 15 minutes.
Another suggestion is to take a glass of warm water with a tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar, a packet of stevia, and a tablespoon of fiber such as Benefiber each morning upon rising then before bedtime to ward off digestive complaints.
Dietary Changes for Digestive Problems
Those suffering with chronic indigestion or gallstones need to watch what they eat. One can’t ignore the fact that too much of anything can upset the body, not to mention pack on the pounds. It's best to strike a healthy balance with food, paying attention to fat and calories, and focusing mainly on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, yogurt, and whole grains.
It's also wise to make a list of personal trigger foods. These are things that set off any digestive problems. Some common trigger foods are no-calorie sweeteners, carbonated beverages, egg yolks, raw onions, mayonnaise, peanut butter, coffee, and anything else acidic.
Exercise and plenty of water are also important for good health. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day and get in three to four days of cardio, weight training and stretching in every week.
Although paying attention to diet and exercise are important for overall vitality, some people may notice a complete turn around in digestive health due to a cheap and natural product: Apple cider vinegar.
Source:
Bragg's, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Kelly Wallace - Kelly is a seasoned freelance writer, multi-published author, radio show host, teacher, speaker and highly acclaimed intuitive ...
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