Diet and nutrient intake are critically important in the proper function of the digestive system. We
must keep the system running properly if it is to perform it's function adequately. The digestive
system is responsible for the complex process of breaking down fuel (food) and allowing for the
absorption of nutrients into our bodies. Failure can occur at either point, leading to a defect in
digestion (maldigestion) or a failure in absorption (malabsorption), which may trigger the
development of a number of related digestive problems. Because the symptoms for both
maldigestion and malabsorption overlap, these conditions are difficult to diagnose.
Other problems related to the digestive system include constipation, candidiasis, abdominal
bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. Constipation effects over 4 million people on a regular basis.
Typically, this is caused by poor fiber intake, poor water intake and imbalance in the bacterial
content of the colon, or candidiasis. Candidiasis can be caused by a deficiency of friendly bacteria,
which allows an overgrowth of yeast (the most common being Candida albicans) and can lead to
symptoms manifested by reflux, abdominal bloating, lethargy and a host of other symptoms. Irritable
bowel syndrome is one of the more common digestion problems seen in the country, and candida
may also play a role in its symptoms.
As we age, the function of the intestinal system changes. Often, acid levels decrease, and poor
digestion occurs, which can lead to symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. Digestive
enzymes may help reduce the occurrence of these symptoms.
Dietary and Product Recommendations
Constipation:
1. Avoid highly processed carbohydrates and adopt the Ideal Diet.
2. Drink plenty of filtered water
3. Include high fiber foods and fiber supplements (total daily fiber intake 25 to 35 grams), Try...
NSI Friendly Fiber
4. Include Lactobacillus as part of your daily regimen. Lactobacillus is one of a handful of probiotic
bacteria strains available in capsule form. Try...
Orthomolecular Formulations - Colon Health
Candidiasis and Irritable bowel
a. Maintain a low glycemic diet, avoiding all refined grains and flours, as well as sugar
b. Drink plenty of filtered water
c. Include high fiber foods and fiber supplements (total daily fiber intake 25 to 35 grams), with the
same product recommendations as noted above.
d. Include Lactobacillus as part of your daily regimen. Lactobacillus is one of a handful of probiotic
bacteria strains available in capsule form with the same recommendations as noted above.
e. Peppermint, used as a folk remedy for stomach ailments, aids in soothing the symptoms
associated with irritable bowel and candidiasis.
5. Correcting HCL levels will help reduce the occurrence of indigestion, heartburn, and bloating.
Try...
Orthomolecular Formulations - Digestive Health
Maldigestion
1. Maintain a balanced diet with 50% Protein, 30% Carbohydrate and 30% fat
2. Drink water only in between meals, and very little with meals to decrease the dilution of stomach
acid, especially with ice.
3. Take digestive enzyme supplements that contain HCL &: Pancreatic enzymes.
Try these great products from MBI Nutraceuticals...
Click the link below and type digestive aids in the search field:
MBI - Nutraceuticals
I like both of these products...
Bio-Gest:
This is a full spectrum digestive enzyme supplement made with natural pepsin. Bio-Gest is
specifically designed to reduce symptoms arising from problematic digestion in the stomach. Many
people do not make adequate hydrochloric acid or sufficient enzymes to digest their foods properly.
Bio-Gest is a balanced digestive aid supplement with protein metabolizers (proteases), starch
metabolizers (amylases), and fat metabolizers (lipases), as well as, hydrochloric acid in the form of
betaine HCL and glutamic HCL which enhances enzyme function.
Panex-8:
Remedy lower gastrointestinal tract digestive problems with Panex-8.
This special formula contains a digestive enzyme from the pancreas and is especially helpful for
treating stomach upset related to food allergies.
Panex-8 contains pancreatin, a combination of pancreatic enzymes that are normally produced
naturally in the body. They help to digest fat, starch and protein in the food you eat. Pancreatin is
given to people who do not produce enough enzymes to digest their food properly.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products
are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent the medical conditions or diseases
highlighted on this page. They are only intended as a nutritional support. Always check with your
health care professional before starting a supplemental program.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Poor Digestive Health