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Heartburn & Indigestion

Stomach – or gastric acid - is actually hydrochloric acid. With the help of enzymes, is manufactured and excreted by cells in the wall of the stomach.

Gastric acid serves several important functions. It breaks down proteins to make them easier to absorb in the lower intestine. It also serves as a barrier against food-bourne bacteria, killing it before it reaches the lower digestive system.

In a normal healthy stomach, the flow of gastric acid goes unnoticed. However sometimes too much can be produced causing the acid to rise up to the oesophagus and cause distressing symptoms such as burning, discomfort and chest pain – often referred to as “heartburn” or indigestion.

While these symptoms are not in themselves serious, if digestive problems persist, more damaging problems such as gastric or peptic ulcers can occur.

 

What causes gastric distress?

Many foods and lifestyle factors encourage excess stomach acid and may contribute to digestive problems. These include:

  • Smoking
  • Stress & anxiety
  • Greasy fatty foods
  • Alcohol and caffeine
  • Spicy food
  • Citrus fruits and onions
  • Some prescription drugs such as anti-inflammatories, antidepressants, hormones and blood pressure medications.
  • Obesity

Natural Solutions

Avoiding the triggers listed is the best way to avoid the discomfort of digestive problems, but it is not always possible.

  • Antacids such as Kruse's Fluid Magnesia are the most common and effective immediate solution when discomfort occurs. Antacids neutralise stomach acid by using magnesium, calcium or potassium, which all have alkaline properties. Magnesium bicarbonate is the mildest form of antacid, and the gentlest on the stomach.
  • Antacid preparations are designed to be used for short term only so it is important if symptoms persist, to see a health care professional.
  • Exercise is a great way to tone the whole digestive system. The oesophagus uses muscular contractions (called peristalisis) to move food along the digestive tract after eating. However, food inside the stomach is only kept there by force of gravity.
  • A gentle walk helps food to move down the stomach and digest, and regular exercise helps prevent obesity.
  • Drinking lots of water helps encourage food to go down.
  • “Bitters”, a natural remedy found in health food shops, may also assist by encouraging an increased flow of digestive juices.

This material is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, please contact your healthcare professional.

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