Let’s dive into a topic that often gets overlooked in the realm of digestive health – your stomach. Not your small intestines, not your large intestines, but specifically, the epicenter of it all: your stomach. Why? Because everything has to pass through this vital organ before making its way to the lower GI tracts! So, let’s talk stomach health.
When we encounter issues like SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), problems in the colon, or even autoimmune responses, we need to go back to the beginning. Digestion initiates in the mouth, but when it comes to the stomach, the quantity of stomach acid and the health of its mucosal lining play pivotal roles in breaking down food and releasing essential enzymes.
Stress and Stomach Health
In our stress-ridden lives, maintaining a balance in stomach acid becomes challenging. In a constant fight or flight mode, stomach acid tends to decrease, leading to a cascade of issues such as ulcers and mucosal lining problems. Stress is the key player in this scenario, affecting our digestive health, specifically stomach acid production.
Addressing Acid Reflux
If you’re grappling with acid reflux, conventional medicine might suggest proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole. However, this merely suppresses acid production, which isn’t the goal. We want the right amount of acid, just not the regurgitation. Long-term use of these inhibitors can lead to hypertension, heart problems, and other complications. So, what can you do?
Support Your Stomach: If you suspect low stomach acid, consider supplements like betaine HCL or apple cider vinegar. A shot of apple cider vinegar in the morning and betaine HCL before meals can help restore the balance.
Slow Down: Amid our hectic lives, slowing down during meals is a challenge. However, it’s crucial. Find a quiet spot, put on some relaxing music, and allow your body to shift into a parasympathetic, relaxed state before eating. Chew your food properly to aid digestion.
Protect Your Mucosal Lining: Stress and medications can erode the mucosal lining of your stomach. Chamomile, known to stimulate goblet cells and enhance mucus production, can be beneficial. But remember, addressing stress is the primary key.
Avoid NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common go-tos for pain, but they wreak havoc on your stomach. The FDA warns of increased heart attack risks, and the drugs inhibit mucosal lining production, potentially leading to ulcers. Opt for natural alternatives like turmeric or CBD oil.
Your stomach health is the cornerstone of your overall well-being. By addressing issues up high, you pave the way for a healthier lower GI tract. Let’s prioritize natural approaches to stomach health and reclaim our overall vitality.
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