Antacids are the number-one-selling pharmaceutical in the United States. They are prescribed for heartburn, which is also known as acid indigestion. Their purpose is to reduce stomach acid and relieve the burning sensation that is caused by foods and acids backing up out of the stomach back into the esophagus. Reducing stomach acid with medication helps relieve the symptoms, but it further complicates the problem. Stomach acid is a fundamental component of a healthy digestive system.
Indigestion is a digestive problem. Heartburn indicates that the digestive tract isn’t working properly and that one or more functions of the digestive system are compromised. The dysfunction could include constipation, decreased transit time of food through the small and/or large intestines, poor absorption of nutrients, an over-worked liver and/or gallbladder, and inadequate breakdown of foods. Most of these situations are related to diet and eating habits. Over consumption of food and beverages is a common cause of indigestion. Many foods and beverages, especially fatty foods, simple sugars, alcohol, processed foods, and dairy products make the digestive system work harder and reduce the effectiveness of the body’s natural enzymes and acids. Another factor contributing to indigestion is improper food combining.
Addressing any of these areas will decrease or eliminate heartburn. Try to reduce or eliminate over consumption. Also reduce or eliminate foods that cause heartburn especially alcohol, sugar, fats, dairy products and processed foods. Eat foods in proper combinations for optimum digestion. Eat fruit alone and avoid eating starches and proteins together. Balance meals with vegetables and salads. Eat a lot more fruits and vegetables; five a day is the absolute minimum daily recommendation. Drink 50 to 100 ounces of water every day, but do not drink with meals as this dilutes digestive enzymes and fluids. Consider taking a high quality digestive enzyme with your meals to aid digestion. Address the causes of all digestive issues — heartburn, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, etc, rather than just covering up the symptoms.
For more information about digestive health, please call 661-755-0617 and visit www.healingwatersvalencia.com . Healing Waters Wellness Spa is located at 23504 Lyons Avenue, Suite 202 in Newhall.