THE BETTER, NATURAL WAY TO GOOD DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Digestion is simply the process of converting food into nutrients, energy and waste. Sometimes this system can become disrupted by the diversity of food that we consume – causing problems such as indigestion, bloating or constipation. Stress induced Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), fluctuating hormone levels or antibiotics can also upset the balance of bacteria in the gut.

Traditional remedies such as artichoke are popular for detoxification and the relief of flatulence and bloating. Peppermint is also commonly used for supporting proper digestive function. Peppermint Oil is a favourite for relieving upset stomach, indigestion, flatulence, symptoms of IBS and travel sickness. It is said to relax the muscles of the digestive system and stimulate bile flow which, in turn, can help to ease indigestion and the symptoms of IBS.

Welcoming friendly bacteria

Probiotics are used to help maintain the balance of ‘Friendly’ bacteria in the gut. These bacteria are essential to gut health and the digestive process, through their multiple interactive benefits. They protect the gut from colonisation by unfriendly bacteria, yeast and even parasites. Live yoghurt is a good source of probiotics, but higher doses of the naturally occurring forms are available in supplement form.

Benefits attributed to probiotics include: strengthening the immune system, combating Candida Albicans (yeast) overgrowth, helping to reduce digestive symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, bloating. They may also help protect against more serious conditions like osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and raised cholesterol levels.  A healthy bacterial balance in the gut also helps with general skin support.

Optimising digestive health

To promote optimal digestive health, The Nutri Centre – the UK’s leading resource for natural nutrition and complementary remedies – recommends trying Ther-Biotics Complete by Klaire Laboratories. This is a top quality, powerful probiotic combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains – containing 25 billion CFUs (colony forming units) per daily dose, in hypoallergenic capsule form.

For those looking for an alternative to tablets, Natures Living Superfood isa 100% whole food nutrient powder containing probiotics, vitamins, minerals and enzymes – which can reduce gas and bloating – as well as super nutrients such as wheatgrass. The high chlorophyll content of wheatgrass causes increased Haemoglobin production, which improves the oxygen carrying capabilities of the blood. Other health benefits include purification of the blood, improving blood sugar disorders and support in combating blood toxins.

This superfood also has a calming effect – possibly due to the high magnesium content in the plant extracts and algae that are present. For convenience it can be mixed with live yoghurt, or sprinkled on food.

To relieve stress-related IBS, try traditional Ashwagandha, a rejuvenative Ayurvedic herbal remedy by Nutrition Herbs. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, said to work on a non-specific basis to normalise physiological functions – particularly those associated with stress. This increased resistance to stress should, hopefully, lead to improvements in general digestion and relieve IBS symptoms. Ashwagandha may further benefit health by improving physical and mental energy and supporting the immune system.

Expert nutritional advice

Expert advice about all aspects of digestive health and the products featured in this article is available from nutritionists at all Nutri Centre stores..Or call the Helpline on 020 7436 5122.