Nutrition Month: Stomach Ills & Overall Health

The abdomen is often referred to as the ‘core’ because many functional movements are highly dependent on it. This part of the body also houses the gut, which happens to be the core of our overall health.

A great deal of our health relies on the gut. Some experts believe that eighty percent of our immunity rides on it. A healthy gut wards off infectious agents and it communicates with the brain for many important functions. Hence, recurrent gastrointestinal pains should not be disregarded because they may signal underlying health issues.

Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of the gut microbiome, has been linked to numerous health risks that include higher likelihood of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer, and compromised immunity to name a few. Poor gastrointestinal health also contributes to many of the common gut problems we experience.

Watch out for persisting belly pains that may be related to any of these conditions:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Abdominal pain is the main symptom, which may occur before or after bowel movements. Diarrhea and constipation can be more frequent due to microbiota imbalance and dysfunction of the intestinal barrier.

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Large intestinal bacteria overpopulate and reach the small intestines, causing bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, SIBO can result in loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss, and even malnutrition.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

When the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach is weak or relaxing when it shouldn’t, gastric acid can flow back (or reflux) into the esophagus, causing discomfort and heartburn.

Gallstones

They can cause sharp pains in the upper-right abdomen. Their formation begins when the bile contains too much cholesterol or waste, or when the gallbladder’s disposal system is not functioning properly.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disease that triggers an attack on the intestinal lining whenever gluten is detected. It can damage the intestines if left untreated. Symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, constipation, abdominal pain, fatigue, and sometimes even nausea or vomiting.

Crohn’s disease

A chronic inflammation of the small intestines that causes unpredictable, painful flare-ups. Diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal cramps are the most common symptoms. Genetics and family history are considered risk factors, but certain foods can also trigger an event.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC)

Symptoms are somewhat similar to Crohn’s, but the affected part is primarily the large intestines. It’s an autoimmune response where sores (or ulcers) develop in the colon lining whenever the immune system mistakes food as a harmful substance.

To restore gut balance and reduce the risk of common gut problems, consider making wise lifestyle changes, like choosing healthier food, reducing stress, sleeping adequately, exercising regularly, and avoiding antibiotics and acid blockers as much as possible.

To achieve better gut health, make these natural supplements part of your daily health routine:

Berberine

With antibacterial properties that can help fight microbial infections.

Oil of Oregano

Powerful antioxidant and intestinal cleansing agent.

L-Glutamine

Improves gastrointestinal health and reduces infections.

Probiotics

12 strains of 25 billion live microorganisms, promotes healthy intestinal gut flora.

Prebiotics

A good source of fiber to support bowel regularity, intestinal health, and immunity.

If you want to learn more about the safe & effective use of vitamins, you can get FREE expert advice from our Vitamin Geeks. They are specialized pharmacists and nutritionists who can answer your questions about the proper practices for supplementation.