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Most of us suffer from one digestive disorder or another at some times in our lives. In fact the highest number of calls received by NHS Direct are from people suffering with digestion problems. Of course our diet and the foods we eat play a big role in keeping our digestive system in good order, but listed here are the three major digestive disorders:
IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME:
IBS is a very common condition in our society. It affects a third of the population at some time or other and about one in ten people suffer symptoms bad enough to go to the doctor. It can be painful and distressing. The symptoms include abdominal pain or a sharp pain felt low down inside the rectum, spasm/diarrhoea, bloated stomach, rumbling noises and wind, constipation, nausea, belching and vomiting.
Despite showing more awareness of IBS and its effect on the quality of life, still no medicinal cure has been found. Stress is believed to play a significant part and most people find their IBS is due to food intolerance. Medical treatment may vary from advice on diet and relaxation to the use of anti-spasmodic drugs or bulking agents. Foods to avoid are wheat products, cereals, pastries and pasta; manufactured food like sausages and sauces made with flour. Cut down on dairy intake – milk, cheese, butter and yoghurt and milk products such as custard and mousses. It is best to keep food as light as possible – try milk substitutes such as organic soya or rice milk. IBS is sometimes aggravated by particularly fatty and rich foods like fried or creamy dishes and if they also contain onions, corn or beef this will worsen IBS.
Click here for a digestive health meal plan.
HEARTBURN AND INDIGESTION:
Heartburn is a term used to describe a burning sensation occurring in the chest area (heartburn has nothing to do with the heart itself), which may also be accompanied by other symptoms including: regurgitation, a bitter taste at the back of the mouth or throat, excess salivation, belching, and difficulty or pain when swallowing. There is often a feeling of "fullness" or bloating in the gut after eating, feeling sick and vomiting. Heartburn can develop at any time and may not always be as a result of eating or drinking.
A test for the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria in your digestive system and if confirmed you should be prescribed antibiotics. The advice for sufferers is to eat slowly and in a relaxed environment; concentrate on enjoying your food and chew it thoroughly. Don't drink too much whilst eating. Sip fennel, mint, apple or camomile tea. Stop smoking!
Digestive enzymes are very helpful as they help your body to digest foods better. Including a probiotics food supplement containing lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium helps to maintain the correct bowel flora (friendly bacteria) in the gut and aids in the digestion of foods.
Foods to avoid include crisps, chips, nuts and rich, creamy or fried foods; acidic foods like vinegar and pickles; some raw vegetables; some citrus fruits or unripe fruit which can cause acid reflex.
Click here for a digestive health meal plan.
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