Home Remedies for Digestive Disorders

Introduction

Everyone enjoys a sumptuous meal to relax and relish the taste of the dishes. But even the day's mood will be cast down with a stomach that is not well. There can be many causes for an upset stomach, ranging from eating quickly or the wrong food to dehydration or stomach infections. However, these can usually be managed at home with some remedies, depending upon the cause and symptoms. If these do not solve the problem, medical attention must be sought.

What Is a Digestive Disorder?

The digestive system is important and complex in the body. It starts with the mouth and curls itself up till the rectum. It consistently absorbs minerals and nutrients and throws off the waste the body does not require. Many reasons can cause digestive issues and may vary in symptoms. They should be properly treated and managed properly, which can cause complications.

What Are the Symptoms of a Digestive Disorder?

The common symptoms of an upset stomach or indigestion can include;

• Heartburn.

• Nausea.

• Bloating.

• Gas.

• Belching (it can often be associated with a sour-tasting fluid regurgitation).

• Farting.

• Bad breath.

• Hiccups.

What Are Some Examples of Digestive Disorders?

Examples of common digestive issues can include;

1. Chronic Constipation: This is a condition when the stool remains in the rectum for a very long period and cannot be eliminated properly. The slow passage of stool in the colon and rectum can make the body absorb the water content in it, making it dry, hard, and difficult to pass. The associated symptoms include abdominal pain and discomfort, bloating, and reduced bowel movements.

2. Food Intolerance: When the body cannot digest a particular food or a component in the food, it is referred to as food intolerance. Lactose intolerance is the most commonly observed food intolerance, where the body cannot digest the lactose in the food. This is probably because the body lacks the enzyme to digest it. Celiac disease is a type of food intolerance that is an autoimmune condition. It causes digestive issues when consuming are glute, usually found in wheat, barley, etc. Symptoms associated with food intolerance can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, headache, gas, irritability, vomiting, and nausea.

3. Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A condition in which the acid from the stomach flows back to the esophagus frequently is termed gastroesophageal reflux. This can eventually cause damage to the esophagus. When the acid regurgitates to the esophagus, it can cause pain and a burning sensation in the chest called heartburn. The symptoms can include heartburn or discomfort in the chest, dry cough, sour taste in the mouth, difficulty in swallowing, etc.

4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: IBD is of two types; ulcerative colitis (that affects the colon only) and Crohn’s disease (that affects the colon and small intestine). The exact cause behind the condition is unknown, though it is thought to be associated with genetics. Issues with bowel movements, fatigue, weight loss, bleeding from the rectum, etc., can be the associated symptoms of this condition.

How Can Digestive Disorders Be Treated at Home?

Some home remedies for digestive disorders can include;

1. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has been used for ages to ease digestive issues like cramps, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects. Chamomile can be boiled in water and simmer for a few minutes. It can be drank along with honey after it cools down a little.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be mixed with warm water and consumed to relieve digestive issues. It is preferable to use this remedy before meals. Apple cider vinegar stimulates digestive juices and enhances digestion. But people with emptying gastric problems should not try this as apple cider vinegar can worsen the condition.

3. Ginger: Ginger is a herb that has many uses and has been known since ancient days to relieve digestive issues. It relieves bloating, gas, nausea, and vomiting due to its carminative nature. A teaspoon of minced ginger can be boiled in water and simmered for a few minutes. It can be served with little honey after it cools down a bit.

4. Coriander Seeds: Coriander seeds have carminative power that helps to heal an upset stomach. It is a good remedy for gas and bowel spasms and eases digestion. A teaspoon of coriander seeds can be crushed and boiled in water. It can be allowed to simmer for a few minutes. It can be consumed with honey (if needed) after it cools down a little.

5. Pumpkin: Pumpkins are rich in fiber and low in starch and sugar. It is easily digestible and one of the best home remedies for diarrhea and constipation. They can be added to soups or consumed just as it is after boiling.

6. Peppermint: Peppermint contains menthol, known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects. This helps to relieve digestive issues and abdominal pain. Boil a few peppermint leaves in water and allow to simmer. It can be drunk after a while with honey. This remedy should be avoided in people with nausea and heartburn, as the condition can be triggered.

7. Fennel Seeds: Fennel seeds are used in cooking as it enhances digestion. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, which help to relieve digestive issues. Fennel seeds can be boiled in water after crushing and drank after it cools down.

8. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera contains chemicals with a laxative effect, which is used to treat constipation. It can also treat indigestion, flatulence, and bloating. One or two tablespoons of fresh aloe vera juice can be consumed daily for a healthy stomach.

9. Turmeric: Turmeric is an inevitable part of Indian cooking. It is known for its antibiotic properties. Curcumin in turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to boost digestive health.

10. Yogurt: Being an excellent probiotic source, yogurt helps improve gut-friendly bacteria. These protect the lining of the intestines and serve as the first line of defense. It can be consumed with daily meals to promote gut health.

Conclusion

These foods relieve digestive issues depending upon the symptoms shown and can vary from person to person. Hence, it is advisable to use them with precaution to prevent aggravation of the current condition. If the condition worsens or does not get better, medical help is a must to prevent further complications.