TOP 5 digestive problems: rational prevention

Tamara Konovalova-Kushnir , gastroenterologist

Eating disorders, taking antibiotics, chronic stress, and uncorrected digestive disorders can lead to chronic pathology, which, as we know, is easier to prevent than to treat. Let's try to dot all the i's in a timely manner in matters of rational prevention of the most common digestive problems together with gastroenterologist Tamara Konovalova-Kushnir.

Non-trivial gastritis

The term “gastritis” itself has been so widespread lately that it often ceases to attract the necessary attention and alertness... Meanwhile, gastritis is a far from trivial problem that can lead to the development of ulcers and even stomach cancer.

Gastritis causes the “owner” a lot of problems, including periodic (most often “seasonal”) exacerbations of pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and a feeling of “heaviness” after eating.

Gastritis is based on inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which can cause:

• bacterial infection Helicobacter pylori;
• excess production of hydrochloric acid and/or reflux of bile into the stomach;
• taking drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac, etc.);
• disorders of the immune system (when the cells of the stomach’s own mucosa become a target for immunity).

To prevent gastritis you should:

• eat rationally, according to the regime, without getting carried away with “fast food”;
• do not forget to follow the rules of food hygiene (use individual equipment for eating and drinking - Helicobacter is easily transmitted through saliva);
• if a Helicobacter pylori infection is detected, undergo antibacterial treatment in a timely manner (and in parallel, examine and treat all loved ones with whom you have close contact in everyday life);
• take drugs from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with caution, if necessary, ideally after consultation with a doctor;
• if there is a family history of gastritis and stomach ulcers, undergo preventive examinations by a gastroenterologist with the selection of an individual course of treatment and preventive measures (periodic gastroscopy, control of Helicobacter pylori infection, taking medications, herbal medicine).

So, among the natural remedies for preventing exacerbations of gastritis, the following will be effective:

• extracts of licorice root, slippery elm bark and marshmallow root, L-glutamine - promote repair of the mucous membrane and restoration of the natural protective barrier;
• peppermint oil is a powerful natural antispasmodic, a regulator of gastrointestinal secretion and motility, which has a local anti-inflammatory effect (including gastritis);
• extracts of licorice root, ant tree (Pau D'Arco), mekabu seaweed (Undaria Pinnatifida) - additionally have natural antibacterial properties against Helicobacter.

The listed components are part of the Regul8 Digestive Tune-Up system. Plant extracts are proportionally added to the formulas Cleanse, Restore, Maintain , which effectively act in combination and step by step bring the intestinal microflora back to normal.

Biliary disorders

This is an equally common problem, characteristic of most diseases of the gallbladder and bile ducts.

Bile is one of the main digestive secretions, ensuring emulsification and normal absorption of fats, a natural regulator of intestinal motility, and also a factor limiting the growth of pathogenic flora in the intestine.

Timely release of the required amount of bile of the “correct” quality is a necessary condition for healthy digestion.

Violation of the quality of bile and its secretion is facilitated by many factors, including:

• poor nutrition (skipping breakfast, irregular meals at intervals of more than 6 hours due to insufficient fluid intake);
• genetic predisposition, especially in combination with phenotypic characteristics, united by the concept of 5F (female, fertile, fat, fair, forty).

Summarizing these factors, we can say that women who have given birth after 40 years (especially “voluptuous” natural blondes with a family history of cholelithiasis) should more closely monitor their diet, the condition of their biliary system and have a prophylactic ultrasound of the abdominal organs.

Modern gastroenterology has a powerful arsenal of therapeutic and prophylactic agents and measures that can correct biliary disorders, which (in addition to a special diet and “tubages”) include taking both “traditional” medications (for example, ursodeoxycholic acid) and herbal remedies (extract barberry bark and Chinese wormwood).

Constipation

A real “silent epidemic” of our time, almost everyone experiences constipation at least once. Up to 50% of the population in developed countries suffers from chronic constipation. It is believed that the growing prevalence of this disease is associated with physical inactivity, as well as a decrease in the amount of fiber in the diet of modern people.

Constipation has characteristic criteria , including:

• bowel movements less than three times a week,
• very thick consistency of stool,
• Difficulty in bowel movements or incomplete bowel movements requiring additional assistance.

To prevent constipation:

• reduce the amount of white bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, and strong tea in your diet;
• increase your consumption of foods rich in fiber (0.5 kg of fresh vegetables and herbs per day);
• Drink at least 2 liters of liquid every day during the day;
• be active (a lazy “master” means a “lazy” intestine!);
• try to develop a “habit” of regularly emptying your bowels at the same time in the morning (to do this, immediately after getting up, drink a glass of cool water, do a simple 10-minute set of exercises, have breakfast with salad or porridge with a little butter, and... follow the natural desires of your body ).

If these measures have no effect, be sure to consult a gastroenterologist; constipation can mask a serious pathology, including intestinal tumors. The gastroenterologist will prescribe the necessary additional examination (colonoscopy) and outline a plan of treatment and preventive measures, including laxatives.

Some plant extracts have a mild “laxative” effect, devoid of the “addictive” effect. For example, mekabu seaweed extract (Undaria Pinnatifida), on which the Cleanse formula of the Regul8 Digestive Tune-Up system is based, is a source of dietary fiber that retains the required amount of water and creates an ideal “matrix” for stool formation. And fennel fruit extract is a natural regulator of intestinal tone and motility, a “mild” laxative and an effective remedy for bloating.

Disturbances in the composition of the intestinal microbiome

The size, organization, and functional significance of the gut microbiome are so impressive that researchers consider it part of a separate functional system—the gut “microbial-tissue complex.”

The “microbial-tissue complex” ensures the functioning of the intestinal barrier, colonization resistance of the intestine to pathogenic microorganisms, normal trophism of the mucous membrane, as well as support of local (and even general) immunity.

Many factors can disrupt the functioning of this harmonious system, including:

• poor nutrition;
• past intestinal infections and “current” chronic parasitic infestations;
• taking antibacterial drugs;
• chronic functional bowel disorders without proper correction (functional constipation, irritable bowel syndrome).

In order to prevent disturbances in the composition and functioning of the intestinal microbiome, the following principles should be adhered to:

• observe hand hygiene rules;
• regularly introduce “functional food” products into the diet (thermostatic yoghurts, yogurt, inulin);
• take antibacterial drugs only if indicated, as prescribed by a doctor, “under the cover” of probiotics;
• together with a gastroenterologist, find reliable ways to correct chronic intestinal disorders (functional constipation), promptly treat intestinal infections and parasitic infestations.

Products of natural origin, which are part of the Regul8 Digestive Tune-Up system, can become a significant “help” on the way to achieving the above factors.

Extracts of yellow gentian root, ant tree bark (Pau D'Arco), cinnamon bark and black pepper fruit are components of the Cleanse and Restore formulas. These plant substances are natural intestinal antiseptics and nonspecific antiparasitic agents that can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, fungi, protozoa and helminths in the intestines.

Probiotic cultures Lactobacillus Acidophilus La-14 and Bifidobacterium Bifidum Bb-06 support normal resident intestinal flora; fructooligosaccharides (inulin) are prebiotics that “feed” the microflora and supply energy to the cells of the intestinal mucosa. These elements are included in the Restore formula and also contribute to the stability of cell membranes.

Consequences of stress and disruption

According to various sources, from one to two thirds of all cases of gastroenterological diseases are of a psychosomatic nature, which means that stress factors play a role in their occurrence.

In addition to extremely traumatic circumstances, it can also be long-term (“depleting”) social stress associated with a constant tense situation in the family and/or at work. An unbalanced work and rest schedule, insufficient sleep, and bad habits can increase the negative impact of stress.

How to protect yourself from the negative effects of stress?

• try to develop and maintain a balanced work and rest regime with maximum resources and productivity (physiologically, this means early rises and bedtimes, about 8 hours of sleep, 2 days off a week, annual leave, regular physical activity);
• give up bad habits (addictions);
• follow the rules of “stress hygiene” (learn to “get rid” of unnecessary thoughts and communication with negative people), regularly train positive thinking;
• seek help from a specialist if you are unable to cope with a psychological problem or addiction on your own.

The arsenal of modern psychotherapeutic assistance is quite wide and includes a variety of methods and medicines, including natural, herbal ones, such as:

• extracts of lemon balm (Melissa Officinalis) and passionflower (Passiflora Incarnata) – reduce nervous excitement, anxiety, normalize sleep, help overcome pathological addictions;
• extracts of Chinese foxglove (Remania glutinosa) and rosea (Rhodiola Rosea) are adaptogens that increase resistance to stress.

These herbal components are part of the Regul8 Relax formula and additionally help improve concentration and mental activity.

In general, prevention of common digestive problems can be summarized as follows:

• a balanced diet (for example, the “Mediterranean diet”) with the required amount of fluid consumed throughout the day (at least 2 liters per day), fiber (at least 0.5 kg of vegetables and herbs per day), daily consumption of thermostatic yogurt or yogurt;
• a balanced regime of work, rest and nutrition (early rises and bedtimes, 8-hour sleep, mandatory breakfast);
• regular physical activity (oriental dancing and yoga will be especially useful for the abdominal organs);
• “stress hygiene” (if necessary, help from a psychologist or psychotherapist);
• timely contact a gastroenterologist in case of any complaints from the digestive system, and if there is a family history of gastroenterological pathology, preventive examinations according to an individual plan.

An effective additional preventive measure can be the use of complex nutraceuticals aimed at supporting the health of the digestive system.

The Cleanse, Restore and Maintain formulas of the Regul8 Digestive Tune-Up system cleanse, restore and support the digestive system in three steps; the preparations restore the balance of beneficial bacteria and supply them with essential nutrients. The additional Regul8 Relax formula effectively helps combat the effects of stress by supplying the body with plant adaptogens, eliminating anxiety and improving sleep.