Monday, August 15, 2011

Homeo Treatment: Digestive disorders. Nausea and Vomiting. Stomach flu

Digestions is a complex process involving not only the intestine but also the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Irregular eating habits, a poor diet, stress, anxiety, and a sedentary lifestyle all aggravate digestive complaints, which are extremely common. In order to help the digestive system prefer properly, it is vital to eat a good variety of fresh, unprocessed, low-fat, high-fiber foods. Eat slowly in calm, relaxed surroundings and get regular exercise to help speed up digestion.

Indigestion is a blanket term that describes various symptoms, such as heartburn, stomachache, nausea, and excessive flatulence and burping, which are brought on by eating. Very rich fatty, or spicy foods, eating too much too quickly, and swallowing air also also cause indigestion. Smokers and those who are constipated or overweight are more susceptible to indigestion, which is also common in pregnancy, when discomfort after eating increases as the uterus enlarges and presses against the stomach. Nervous indigestion is caused by stress.
Nausea and Vomiting:
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Nausea and Vomiting may be due to infection such as stomach flu, a migraine, stress, overindulgence in food or alcohol, a hiatus hernia, contaminated food or water, gallbladder or liver disorders, hormone changes associated with pregnancy and menstruation, or problems with the inner ear and associated dizziness.
Stomach flu (Gastroenteritis):

Stomach flu (Gastroenteritis) is an inflammation of the digestive tract that may lead to sudden, violent upsets. It is usually due to a viral infection caused by contaminated food or water. It may also be due to an allergic reaction, sudden changes in the diet, or caused by anger or indignation, or it may be a drug side effect.
Diarrhea:

Diarrhea is a symptom of stomach flu or irritable bowel syndrome, which is a combination of intermittent cramp like pains in the abdomen and irregular bowel habits. Diarrhea can also be a symptom of more serious forms of bowel disease, or it may be side effect of certain drugs. It is also associated with food allergy, food intolerance, stress, and anxiety.
Bloating and Flatulence:

Bloating and Flatulence can be caused by constipation, premenstrual tension, swallowing air, food intolerance or nervous apprehension.
Constipation:

Constipationis most often caused by a diet that is too low in fiber, although emotional tension, poor bowel habits, sluggish bowels and a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute.
Hemorrhoids (Piles):

Hemorrhoids (Piles) are inflamed veins in the lining of the anus usually due to constipation, pregnancy, childbirth, persistent coughing, standing for long periods, overuse of laxatives, or sitting on cold, hard surfaces for a long time.
Precautions:
If there is severe abdominal pain with or without vomiting, vomited blood, or an associated fever, call an ambulance.

If vomiting or diarrhea persist for more that 48 hours, there is blood in the stools or an associated fever, see a doctor within 2 hours.

If there is bleeding from the anus, see a doctor within 12 hours. For persistent constipation or a prolonged change in bowel habits, see a doctor.


Digestion-The Key To Overall Good Health-Part I

How many times have we frequented our favorite Mexican restaurant for that healthy helping of guacamole and burritos, or our favorite Chinese spot for some Kung Pao chicken only to return home with a bad case of indigestion?!

Bloating, Gas, Nausea, Heartburn or Acid Reflux-These are all uncomfortable indications that our digestive systems need some rewiring!

But how... and just how much is this going to cost?!?!

Well, since the beginning of time, herbs have been used to aid in the digestive process. As a matter of fact, many cultures use herbs as seasonings in their meals for the same reason. Herbs are safe and inexpensive yet effective in helping to improve digestion!

Here we have a quick reference guide to many traditional herbal remedies used to relieve symptoms of digestive distress and aid in smoother digestion. And the best part is that most if not all can be found at your local health food store.

(Note: This list is not exhaustive. It is just an introduction to some of the many herbal remedies for digestive issues.)

Herbal Digestive Aids

1.Chamomile: Chamomile tea, made from dried flowers, is an excellent herbal remedy for upset stomachs. It relieves heartburn, indigestion, and general stress. It also has mild relaxant and sedative properties. Brew the tea as an infusion, letting the flowers steep, covered, for 10 minutes before pouring.
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2. Dandelion: The fresh greens and dried roots are both used as digestive tonic.

3. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL): This extract soothes the digestive tract by building the mucosal lining. The best form to use is a chewable tablet for quick relief.

4. Digestive bitters: A variety of pre-mixed herbs with bitter compounds help stimulate digestion, increase bile production in the gallbladder and bile flow from the liver, while strengthening bowel function.

5. Fennel seed: This culinary herb is carminative, which means it expels gas from the intestinal tract. Chew 1/2 tsp of fennel seeds at the end of a meal or any time you feel the beginnings of indigestion.

6. Fenugreek seed: Fenugreek is a mucilaginous (slippery, soothing) source of fibre. It soothes gastrointestinal spasms, pain, and irritation. It's effective in any form.

7. Ginger: This spicy, aromatic digestive aid alleviates nausea, strengthens the lining of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) l tract, and protects against ulcers and parasites.

8. Peppermint: This refreshing traditional digestive remedy has powerful, fast-acting therapeutic properties for the entire GI tract.
Steep peppermint leaves for hot or cool tea. Peppermint oil is available in capsules and is especially effective for irritable bowel syndrome.

9. Slippery elm bark powder: This herb is well-known for its immediate, soothing relief of heartburn. It's also ideal for promoting healing of the mucosal lining of the digestive tract and relieving constipation.

Of course, the best digestive aid of all is a clean diet rich in fresh raw fruits and vegetables for they contain many naturally-occurring enzymes. Avoid processed foods for they are harder to digest and mostly void of nutrients. Consume healthy proteins from sources like organically raised, free-range meat or wild-caught seafood. Organic beans and nuts make great meat substitutes.

A balanced diet should also contain healthy fats such as coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil. Carbohydrates should come from whole sprouted, low glycemic grains and low starch vegetables. Drink plenty of water, exercise daily and sleep for at least 8 hours. Great food leads to greater digestion!!