Proper Digestion Matters

Our digestive tract (GI system) does a lot more than just process food. It’s a major contributor to immune health, metabolic efficiency and hormone balance. GI health is a prerequisite to optimizing how the body works and pivotal to good health. Addressing GI function, microbial balance, internal environment and interplay with liver is requisite to maximizing health outcomes. In order for the body to properly absorb the necessary nutrients from our food, we must achieve a healthy internal environment and produce specific enzymes designed to break down food.

Is My Digestive System Sick?

 Maldigestion and other common complaints may be a sign that digestion is impaired. Many people take antacids not realizing that excess acid may not be the root cause of their discomfort, unresolved issue(s) may continue to worsen. To make matters worse, antacids raise the pH of the stomach impairing protein digestion and mineral uptake. Side effects of acid reducers may cause bone loss and lead to osteoporosis.  Blood pressure medication may impair GI health and create the need for other medications that complicate the internal mix up. These examples justify the importance of getting to the root of the matter instead of taking a symptom by symptom approach.

Poor digestion can result in GI symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Colitis, Chron’s Disease, Food Intolerances and Sensitivities, Acid Reflux (GERD) and Heartburn often result from poor digestion, malabsorption, bacterial overgrowth and/or viral insults. The result is inflammation. Long term poor digestion can lead to bacterial or yeast overgrowth and change permeability (porosity). Toxins and large molecules that should not be included cross over the intestinal barrier and enter the general circulation. The liver may become burdened or inflamed as is the body’s ability to defend and detoxify. Similarly partially digested foods that cross over are not recognized as such and an autoimmune response may occur.

Self treating symptoms and conditions (with over the counter or prescriptions) without resolving the cause skims the surface and leads to future health consequences. Medication side effects treated with other medications adds to the conundrum.  Consider one of our Digestive Wellness Care Packages or sign up for our ReJuvinate Digestion course.  Gauge the difference in your total health as a resulting benefits.