Abdominal discomfort is a common complaint experienced by many people. It is expressed through a variety of different symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion, gas, belching, acid reflux, constipation, etc.
In many cases, there is no presence of an actual, classifiable disease such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, hiatal hernia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), colitis, etc.
It's important to understand that the symptoms which point to a digestive disorder may actually be due to an underlying disease, in which case treatment is a bit more involved.
However, most patients present with “functional” digestive disorders, meaning that organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and intestines are not actually diseased but are stressed, overworked, and simply require support.
Whether your abdominal discomfort is due to a true disease or functional issue, there are many natural medicines that can alleviate symptoms and support the optimal function of your digestive system.
Does diet cause GI disorders?
The most important treatment consideration for abdominal discomfort is dietary intake. The foods you choose to eat on a regular basis significantly influence the function of your organs.
The digestive system can be thought of as the center of the body’s metabolic processes, as the digestion of foods and extraction of their nutrients allows the body to sustain itself.
Most people are eating foods on regular basis that are upsetting their digestive system, which propagates abdominal discomfort. For example, many people experience symptom relief by removing or reducing exposure to common offenders such as milk, cheese, and bread. Small changes can have dramatic effects on symptoms.
In more stubborn cases, there is usually a mental and emotional component to the abdominal discomfort.
The Role of the Nervous System
The hurried American lifestyle creates a gateway for disease manifestation. This is because the nervous system, which can instantly communicate with every organ, is overstimulated.
Digestive processes occur most efficiently when we are relaxed and free of stress. Small changes in lifestyle, such as eating while seated and without distraction, can improve overall digestive experience and can be welcome breaks from the stressors of day-to-day living. There are also many natural medicines that can assist or support the digestive organs, ultimately helping to improve digestion and alleviate abdominal discomfort.
What are natural medicines for GI disorders?
Natural medicines for abdominal discomfort are numerous and can offer tremendous relief while simultaneously supporting organ function.
The issue with standard therapies such as acid reducers is that they exert an aggressive force on the body, pushing and pulling normal bodily processes out of bounds.
The end result is more stress on the digestive organs, not less; generally, this makes the problem worse in the long-term.
Natural medicines for abdominal discomfort can work fast and produce great results. Many people experience persistent relief and overall improvement from botanical formulas and homeopathics.
These natural medicines support organs and organ systems, helping the body do what it is already trying to do without pushing it out of bounds.
If you’re suffering from abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, acid reflux, or you just feel that your digestive function is abnormal, natural medicines can offer quick and sustainable relief. Changes in lifestyle habits and dietary intake are also great starting points.
A naturopathic doctor can help tailor a fully individualized plan with a custom diet and use of natural medicines that fit your lifestyle.
