How to Combat Indigestion, Heartburn, Gas, Bloating & Stomach Pain

[Guest guest]

http://www.hfn-usa.com/articles/041217.html

 

 

Stop Digestive Discomfort!

 

* How to Combat Indigestion, Heartburn, Gas, Bloating & Stomach Pain

* Why Typical Indigestion Medications are Harmful, Making Matters

Worse

* What You Can Do to Improve Digestion for Long Term Health

* When Poor Digestion Might Cause Numerous Health Problems

 

The human body is amazingly resilient and can take a lot of abuse.

Eating a Big Mac and fries for lunch, pepperoni pizza for dinner, and

a pint of ice cream for dessert won't kill you in the short term. But

a poor diet laden with saturated fat and little or no fiber can

certainly wreak havoc on your digestive system and overall health.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of diseases associated with poor

nutrition and digestion that take years to rear their ugly head.

 

It's estimated that some form of digestive disorder affects more than

100 million Americans.1 For some people, it's a temporary case of

dyspepsia, or indigestion, that may cause a sleepless night or a

missed day of work. For others, dyspepsia turns into a chronic state

of discomfort and pain that can eventually result in a serious illness.

The foundation of good health & the root cause of disease

Nutrition, digestion, absorption, and bacterial balance all play

significant roles in the health of your gastrointestinal tract—and in

your overall health. Efficient absorption of the nutrients in the food

you eat is at the foundation of good health. According to Deepak

Chopra, M.D., digestion allows the nutrients you ingest to be broken

down and " then combined again in such a way as to re-create every

cell, every organ, every tissue of the human body. " 2

 

Conversely, many health practitioners believe that poor digestion is

the root cause of most disease. Although it can take years for the

consequences of poor digestion to manifest in serious illness,

individuals may complain in the interim of a variety of health

complaints including joint pain, headache, fatigue, indigestion,

heartburn, or stomach problems.3

What is dyspepsia?

Dyspepsia is a complex set of symptoms, rather than an indication of a

specific disease. It is the medical term used for indigestion…and

indigestion is the term used to describe pain and discomfort in the

upper abdomen or chest that usually develops after a meal. It may also

be accompanied by nausea, abdominal bloating, belching, or vomiting.

 

Dyspepsia may be caused by disease or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

infection. It can also be the result of eating too much or too

fast—especially when you're feeling stressed—and high-fat foods.

Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, using medications that irritate

the stomach lining (such as anti-inflammatory drugs), fatigue, and

chronic stress can also cause indigestion, or make it worse.

Additionally, exercising with a full stomach may cause indigestion so

try to plan your workout before a meal or at least an hour afterward.

 

30 percent of the population suffer from dyspeptic complaints on a

regular basis,

and 20 percent suffer from heartburn at least once a week.

Some people have persistent indigestion that is unrelated to any of

these factors. This type of indigestion—called functional or non-ulcer

dyspepsia—may be caused by a problem in the muscular squeezing action

of the stomach (motility), or by low stomach acid or low bile flow.

 

Addison's disease, asthma, celiac disease, chronic auto-immune

disorders, depression, eczema, gallstones, gastric cancer, gastritis,

hepatitis, osteoporosis, psoriasis, acne roseola, colitis, hair loss,

and rheumatoid arthritis are just some of the disorders that have been

associated with poor stomach acid output.4

What are the symptoms of dyspepsia?

Depending on the cause, symptoms may occur for a short time only, they

may return intermittently, or they may be regular and prolonged:

 

* Pain, which may be in the upper part of the abdomen or the chest

(This may not always be related to eating.)

* Heartburn, a burning pain caused by reflux (regurgitation) of

the stomach's contents back up the esophagus

* Nausea and vomiting

* Flatulence, burping or belching

* Early feeling of satiation, loss of appetite

* Intolerance of eating fat

* Irregular bowel movements

* Bad breath

 

Everyone experiences some of these symptoms from time to time. But

when a digestive disorder becomes chronic, it can interfere with the

mere joy of eating. It can also make your life so miserable that it

interferes with normal, every-day activity. If the symptoms continue

for an extended period of time, they can result in other health

problems. It makes sense—if you have a digestive disorder you're not

absorbing and assimilating nutrients…which means you're not getting

adequate protein, fats, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants…which

means your body can not sustain optimal health—and ultimately, your

body ages more quickly.

Low stomach acid

Technically known as hydrochloric acid, stomach acid is essential for

proper functioning of the digestive system. But an estimated 30% of

North Americans have low stomach acid—which helps explain the huge

numbers of people suffering from dyspepsia. Natural aging, a poor

diet, chronic use of certain medications, and past infection with the

Helicobacter pylori bacteria can impair the stomach's ability to

produce acid. (This is actually a case of " the chicken or the egg " .

Are individuals susceptible to H. pylori because of low stomach acid,

or does the bacteria cause the low stomach acid?)

 

In their book, Why Stomach Acid Is Good For You: Natural Relief for

Heartburn, Indigestion, Reflux & GERD. (M. Evans & Co; 2001), Jonathan

Wright, M.D., and Lane Lenard, Ph.D., write, " After 30, 40, or more

years of digesting or attempting to digest everything we put in our

stomachs—not just food, which the stomach is designed to handle, but

also refined sugar, caffeine, distilled alcohol, grease and oxidized

oils, fluoride and chlorine from water, chemical flavorings and

colorings, pesticides, herbicides—you get the idea. No? Why would

anyone except an antacid salesman or the average gastroenterologist

imagine that our stomachs would make more acid, more pepsin, and

digest things more efficiently as we get older? Common sense says that

after 30 or 40 years, the stomach slows down, just like the rest of us

[our body], and makes less acid, less pepsin, and digests things less

efficiently. "

 

In fact, the authors add that if over-acidity were the cause of ulcers

and dyspepsia, then teenagers who secrete plenty of hydrochloric acid

would suffer from indigestion problems a lot more than their

grandparents! " So why, " they ask, " would we want to take antacids or

acid blockers when our stomachs are weak and not digesting adequately

already? "

More Americans are hospitalized for digestive disorders than for any

other type of illness.

The answer seems plain and simple: most people want symptom relief and

they get it by taking popular over-the counter antacids and other

prescription drugs. But there's a price to pay, which we'll discuss in

a minute. But first, it's important to know that studies show that

production of stomach acid decreases with age.

 

* At the Hiroshima University School of Medicine, Japan,

researchers found that gastric acid decreases with age in older people

who have H. pylori.7

* An American study found that more than 30% of men and women over

60 years of age suffer from atrophic gastritis: a condition in which

there is little or no stomach acid secretion.7

* Another study found that up to 40% of postmenopausal women

produce no gastric acid.8

 

The importance of digestive enzymes

Inadequate digestive enzyme production may also be the cause of

dyspepsia. Enzymes are catalysts that make metabolic functions within

the body possible. In fact, nothing takes place in the body that

doesn't involve enzymes in some way. The way our brain thinks, our

muscles move, and how our stomach digests food are all affected by the

behavior of specific enzymes.

 

Like the production of digestive juices, as we age our body's enzyme

supply decreases. Enzyme production can also be over-taxed by poor

diet, illness, environmental toxins, and stress. Enzymes found in raw,

whole food can help the body degrade nutrients and lessen the burden

of digestion on the body. Heating, however, usually destroys these

enzymes. Enzymatic supplementation taken with a meal can assist in the

digestive process and help the body to better absorb and utilize

nutrients, slow down the aging process, and improve overall health by:

 

* promoting improved digestion

* delivering essential nutrients

* supporting elimination

* improving energy levels

* preventing the accumulation of undigested foods in the large

intestine which can be a source of toxicity for the body

 

Heartburn — why does it hurt so much?

Normally, food travels from the mouth down to the esophagus and

through a sphincter muscle to get to the stomach. But if you find

yourself wishing you could douse the fire burning behind your sternum,

it's because the sphincter muscle between the stomach and esophagus

has relaxed, allowing food, stomach acid, and other digestive juices

to travel up from the stomach into the esophagus. When your stomach is

full, there's more of a chance of this happening because extra

pressure is placed on the valve.

 

Many people get heartburn occasionally, especially after large meals.

In fact, about one in ten Americans has heartburn every day .1 But if

it happens frequently or causes severe symptoms, it's called

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The sphincter muscle doesn't

work properly and relaxes more often than usual in people who have

GERD, but it isn't fully understood why this happens. And according to

a new study in the September 2004 edition of the American Journal of

Gastroenterology, eating too quickly may be a major cause of

gastroesophageal reflux.9

 

Every year, about 31 million Americans are chronically ill

with disease of the upper GI tract.

The main symptom of GERD is heartburn. The stomach has a mucous lining

to protect it from damage by stomach acid. However, there is no mucous

lining in the esophagus, so stomach acid irritates it, causing a

burning sensation. If severe, the pain can be hard to distinguish from

a heart attack.

 

Sometimes food is regurgitated from the stomach back into the mouth.

Severe cases of GERD can lead to inflammation of the esophagus which

results in scarring and narrowing of the esophagus making it difficult

to swallow.10

 

It's important to get GERD under control because it can lead to other

serious health problems, including ulcers, esophageal narrowing,

Barrett's esophagus, or a cellular change in the tissue of the

esophagus which can lead to cancer.1

How nutrients are absorbed

 

When levels of stomach acid, bile, or digestive enzymes fall below

optimal levels, digestion suffers and food allergies and malabsorption

increase.

Stomach acid activates digestive enzymes that break down food into

small particles for absorption. Low acidity may result in only partial

digestion of foods, leading to the uncomfortable symptoms we've been

discussing.

 

A combination of low acidity and undigested food makes it easier for

bacteria and parasites to colonize the stomach or small intestine and

interfere with the digestion, absorption of fats, carbohydrates,

proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

 

Fats and Carbohydrates

Stomach acid (Hydrochloric acid) stimulates the release of pancreatic

enzymes and bile into the small intestine which digest and absorb

carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins A and E.

 

Proteins

Hydrochloric acid converts pepsinogen into the enzyme pepsin which

breaks proteins into smaller peptides that are absorbed by the small

intestine.

 

Vitamins and Minerals

Hydrochloric acid assists the absorption and assimilation of vitamins

and minerals including ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, folic acid, and

iron. Dr. Jonathan Wright has made the observation that individuals

who take acid-blocking drugs have a harder time absorbing calcium,

magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, chromium, selenium, manganese,

vanadium, molybdenum, cobalt, and many other " micro-trace " elements.11

Pouring gasoline on the fire!

Digestive drugs can actually cause digestive distress and increase

stomach acid!

There are many prescription and over-the-counter medications that

neutralize or block gastric acid and provide quick, temporary

relief—but they won't cure your dyspepsia, and they may make it worse

and lead to other health hazards. Here's why:

 

The biggest problem with acid-blocking medications is that they

disturb the normal feedback mechanism controlling stomach health,

which is acid production. Normally, stomach acid secretion helps

balance the growth of stomach cells, especially the acid-producing

cells. But when we artificially block the production of stomach acid

using drugs, the body responds by producing too much gastin—a stomach

hormone normally blocked by our stomach acid production. This results

in a condition known as Hypergastrinemia.

 

This excess gastin production causes changes in the stomach cells,

notably a proliferation of acid-producing cells (causing a rebound

ability of our stomach to produce acid).12 It may also result in

cancerous-like stomach growths.13 The end result is an overproduction

of acid after stopping these drugs—beyond what is normal and needed.

This sets up a vicious cycle because the drugs very effectively turn

off stomach acid until we stop using them. However, they also

stimulate the growth of acid-producing stomach cells giving us even

more acid production once we stop. Even worse, these drugs may

actually promote cancer of the stomach because of the changes they

cause. Equally troubling, studies show that aged animals are much more

susceptible to these adverse changes than young ones.14 All of these

drugs were initially approved only for the short-term treatment of

ulcers or gastric reflux. However, they are increasingly being used as

a daily, long-term quick fix with potentially disastrous long-term

consequences.

 

* Calcium-based antacids can create acid rebound causing the

stomach to produce more gastric acid after the antacid has worn off.15

They may also produce a mineral imbalance in the body by providing

excess amounts of calcium without phosphorus which is needed to

balance calcium metabolism.

 

 

* Magnesium hydroxide and magnesium carbonate are also used in

antacids and, since they both have a laxative effect, they are often

combined with aluminum compounds which tend to be binding. Aluminum

may be a culprit in other diseases and is something you definitely

don't want in your body. It can also leach calcium which eventually

leads to osteoporosis.15

 

 

* Antacids may also interfere with the absorption of other drugs.

Since they lower stomach acid, they may cause some coated pills to

release their active ingredients earlier than they should—in the

stomach instead of the large intestine. Antacids also interfere with

the absorption of prescription drugs in the bloodstream, speeding it

up or slowing it down.16

 

Prescription heartburn drugs reduce the production of stomach acid.

Known as histamine (H2) blockers, these popular drugs (Tagamet,

Pepcid, Axid, and Zantac) are available over the counter and by

prescription. Not only do they take a while to work, but there is

concern that they can mask the symptoms of an active ulcer and

existing cancer of the stomach or esophagus.17 Many drugs interact

with H2 blockers (particularly with Cimetidine—Tagamet). These drugs

decrease the body's ability to excrete caffeine, and individuals who

consume large quantities of caffeine may experience tremors, insomnia,

or heart palpitations. Cimetidine may increase the likelihood of

alcohol intoxication.18

 

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 40% of American

women over the age of fifty have hypochlohydria (low stomach acid)

which leaves them susceptible to infections such as stomach flu.

H2 blockers also produce side effects such as dizziness, depression,

and hallucinations in elderly individuals, or those who are unable to

adequately excrete the drugs (i.e. people with kidney disease). High

doses, taken over a long time, have caused breast enlargement and

sexual dysfunction in men. H2 blockers can also cause liver toxicity

or decreased platelet counts.18

 

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) are stronger drugs used to treat

acid-induced inflammation, ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, and

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). These drugs block acid

production, and come with their own set of side effects. The most

common include headache, diarrhea, stomach or abdominal pain,

increased gas, or bloating, vomiting, rash, and dizziness.

Nervousness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle pain, weakness, leg cramps,

and water retention occur frequently.19

 

The Boston Globe Magazine reported that doctors jokingly refer to

these drugs (Priolosec, Rapinex, Nexium)—as " purple crack. " " It's an

expensive habit, about $4 for each daily pill, or $1,500 a year. " 17

But once you get hooked, it's hard to give it up—because most people

will do anything to avoid the heartburn that blazes after a favorite

meal, even if relief is accompanied by headache, diarrhea, increased

gas, or bloating…all common drug side effects. According to Dr.

Jonathan Wright, " Multimillion dollar promotions to the public were

launched to drive home the point that heartburn and indigestion are

caused by too much acid, which can be 'blocked' (with these products,

of course) at minimal risk. Oddly enough, the FDA has never required

the companies advertising these products to document their claims that

indigestion and heartburn are actually caused by overacidity. " 20

 

Dr. Wright also says that the more we take these acid blockers, the

more we accelerate our aging because they are also blocking the

absorption of essential nutrients needed to repair and support cells,

tissues, organs, and enzyme systems.20

Artichoke Leaf Extract

Artichoke may not be the most popular veggie to grace your dinner

plate, but clinical studies show that its large basal leaves contain

antioxidant, liver-protective, bile-enhancing, and lipid-lowering

effects. The artichoke plant—Cynara scolymnus—is a relative of the

well-known liver detoxifier Milk Thistle, and is one of the oldest

known cultivated plants in the world. Used as a food and traditional

remedy in the Mediterranean region since the 4th century B.C., the

artichoke's use as an aid for indigestion, insufficient liver

function, and high cholesterol is now being proven in scientific

studies.21

 

Promotion of bile flow is the basis for the beneficial effects of

Artichoke Leaf Extract (ALE) on the gastrointestinal system. Bile is a

thick, yellowish green fluid produced by the liver and stored in the

gall bladder. It is then released into the small intestine where it

aids in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

Good bile flow is also necessary for detoxification which is carried

out by the liver. Bile serves as a carrier for the toxins that are

excreted by the liver which are then sent to the intestine for their

exit from the body. Cholesterol is also excreted in this way. Bile

also helps keep the small intestine free of parasites. It promotes

intestinal peristalsis and helps soften stool by promoting the

incorporation of water which helps prevent constipation.21,22

Cholestasis

Cholestasis—decreased bile flow—is a major cause of dyspepsia.

 

The most common cause of cholestasis and impaired liver function is

alcohol ingestion. In individuals who are especially sensitive, as

little as one ounce of alcohol can damage the liver which results in

fat being deposited in the liver. On the other hand, gallstones are

the most common cause of bile duct obstruction. Gallstones affect

approximately 20 million people in the U.S. and are linked to a

high-fat, low-fiber diet.22

 

Cholestasis may also be caused by viral hepatitis, certain drugs and

chemicals, pregnancy, hereditary disorders, or hyperthyrodism.

Regardless of the cause, the consequence is that cholesterol and

toxins remain in the liver which can injure liver cells and function.22

Scientific studies

A variety of clinical in vitro and in vivo studies on artichoke all

confirm its traditional use to treat gastrointestinal complaints and

protect the liver. Based on recent clinical studies, it also shows

great promise as a treatment for high cholesterol.

 

* In an early German study, participants were given a one-time

dose of Artichoke Extract or placebo, and their bile secretion was

measured with special techniques over a several-hour period. The bile

secretion was found to be significantly higher in the group that

received the artichoke extract.23

 

 

* In another German study that included 553 patients with

dyspeptic complaints and 279 patients with irritable bowel symptoms

(IBS), the patients took a recommended dose of 2 capsules each of 320

mg of ALE, three times per day with meals. All five IBS

symptoms—abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, right-sided abdominal

cramps, and constipation—along with general dyspepsia were

significantly reduced after 6 weeks of treatment. The patients noticed

improvement in their symptoms after an average of 10.4 days of

treatment, and 84% of both patients and physicians rate the overall

effectiveness of ALE as good or excellent.24

 

 

* A double-blind clinical trial that studied the impact of ALE on

44 healthy individuals with high cholesterol levels greater than 220

mg/dl found that it significantly decreased their cholesterol levels.

In fact, the higher the initial cholesterol value, the more

significant was the reduction in cholesterol levels. It was also

observed that the protective HDL cholesterol levels showed a tendency

to increase.25

 

 

* In vivo studies on rat liver cells found that ALE reduced the

formation of cholesterol for several hours following exposure.26

Artichoke Heart Extract is well tolerated and has no significant side

effects. Although no known allergic reactions have been reported,

those with known sensitivities to Asteraceae (daisy family) plants

should avoid it. ALE is an excellent digestive aid for dyspepsia

(especially bloating, constipation, flatulence, and diarrhea) and as a

general tonic to improve liver function and detoxification.

 

Artichoke Leaf Extract has been found to:

 

* increase healthy bile secretion

* prevent fat infiltration in the liver

* inhibit liver cell free radical damage

* inhibit LDL oxidation

* inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis

 

Mastic Gum

This natural substance from the sap of a variety of pistachio trees

(Pistacia lentiscus) that grow in the Mediterranean has been used for

centuries in Italy and Greece as a traditional remedy against stomach

upset, ulcers, and heartburn.27

 

Today, mastic is used primarily for gastrointestinal health and as a

chewing gum base and flavoring additive. It is also especially

effective for protecting the digestive system against duodenal and

peptic ulcers, eradicating H. pylori and other gastrointestinal

bacteria, and soothing dyspeptic complaints.28

 

The H. pylori bacterium has been estimated to be present in 30 to 40%

of the U.S. population and is considered the world's most common

chronic infection.29 It is believed to be acquired through

contaminated food and water, and transmitted by intimate contact such

as kissing, where there is an exchange of saliva. It is common for

parents and children to pass it back and forth.

 

Recent studies have shown that mastic is particularly effective

against H. pylori. One study showed that mastic killed 50% of the 16

strains tested at a concentration of 125 mcg/ml and 90% of the 16

strains at a concentration of 500 mcg/ml. The researchers also noted

that mastic produced alterations, abnormalities, and fragmentation in

H. pylori cells, making it difficult for the bacterium to survive in

the body.30

 

Other studies showed that mastic can quickly heal gastric and even

some duodenal ulcers.31-33 Endoscopic studies have shown that lesions

heal within weeks with mastic therapy with healthy tissue regrowth

over the formerly damaged tissue—all without the use of antibiotics.

Ginger

(Zingiber officinale)

One of the oldest traditional remedies for gastric disorders is

ginger. This flavorful herb has been used in many cultures because of

its digestion enhancing and stomach protective properties. Ginger

extract contains a variety of active compounds which have been studied

for their effects on digestion and gastric health as well as many

other beneficial medicinal properties.34 Among the scientific

validations of ginger's traditional uses are anti-ulcer and

anti-dyspepsic properties. Among its effects, ginger has been shown to

inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria.35 Additionally, ginger has

been shown to prevent ulcers from both drugs and stress.36 In the case

of dyspepsia, ginger has been proven to significantly relax the

stomach, lessening the chance of an overactive stomach causing

hearthburn.37 Because of all these beneficial effects, ginger extract

is a powerful weapon in the battle for digestive peace.

DigeZyme®

(Aspergillus oryzae)

DigeZyme® is a multi-enzyme complex from Aspergillus oryzae consisting

of amylases (starch digesting enzymes), proteases (protein digesting

enzymes) and lipases (fat digesting enzymes). Lactase, a carbohydrate

digestive enzyme that digests lactose, is included especially for

individuals who are lactose intolerant.

 

Unlike the commonly available enzyme products of animal origin,

DigeZyme® is derived from the microbial fermentation of grain. This

preparation is therefore free from the potential hazards of latent

viruses such as bovine spongiform encephalitis (BSE).

 

Aspergillis enzymes are unusually stable and active under a wide range

of pH conditions, contrary to the once popular animal enzymes (i.e.,

pepsin, pancreatin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, pancrelipase, pancreatic

amylase, etc.) which require special pH conditions, often lacking in a

stomach ravaged by digestive problems.

 

It's important to remember that cofactors such as vitamins and

minerals are essential for the activity of many enzymes. For instance,

there are over 300 enzymes in the human body that require zinc in

order to function properly. Other enzymes may require B vitamins,

magnesium, iron, copper, and selenium. So it's a good idea to take an

excellent vitamin/mineral supplement along with digestive enzymes for

the best results.

Lactospore®

(Lactobacillus sporogenes)

Probiotic (beneficial bacteria) therapy originated in the ancient Near

and Middle East where physicians used fermented milk for the treatment

of various diseases including gastrointestinal disorders. Much later,

scientists discovered that the health benefits from fermented milk

were derived from the indigenous lactobacilli which also inhabit the

human gastrointestinal tract, skin, and vaginal mucosa. It isn't

surprising, then, that the lactobacilli have been found to be

effective in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, vaginal

infections, and even high cholesterol.

 

The problem is, that lactobacillus—commonly called acidophilus—have a

short shelf life and needs refrigeration. They also do not survive the

acidic environment of the stomach. In fact, most lactobacillus die in

the stomach before they have a chance to reach the small intestine

where they are most needed.

 

Lactobacillus sporogenes is a spore-forming probiotic that has been

used in Japan successfully for more than 20 years. It represents a

significant breakthrough in lactobacillus supplementation because it

can survive the acidity of gastric and bile juices, and it produces

L(+) lactic acid in the intestines which is fully metabolized to

glycogen. Once in the small intestine, a spore will sporulate, meaning

it will open up and grow. It also doesn't require refrigeration.

 

Intestinal flora supplementation is highly recommended when an

individual has dyspeptic complaints, or has:

 

* Taken antibiotics that kill bacteria, antifungal drugs that kill

fungi and yeast, and antiprotozoal drugs that kill organisms such as

Giardia and Malaria

* Chronic diarrhea

* Chronic constipation

* Malabsorption/malassimilation problems due to poor diet

* Colitis

* Inflammatory Bowel Disease

* Used drugs that inhibit the immune system

 

Clinical trials with Lactobacillus sporogenes have proven successful

in the treatment of:

 

* Gastrointestinal disorders

* Non-specific vaginitis38

* Antibiotic-induced diarrhea in children39

* High cholesterol40

* Constipation41

* Imbalance of intestinal microflora42

 

For all these reasons, Lactobacillus sporogenes is considered to be an

excellent supplement to aid in replenishing normal intestinal flora.

Conclusion

Stomach acid and bile flow help maintain normal health in the

gastrointestinal tract. Stomach acid supports digestion, helps the

body absorb vital nutrients, digest protein by stimulating pepsin

production, and helps prevent bacterial and fungal overgrowth.

 

Bile flow also helps support normal gastrointestinal health by

carrying toxins out of the liver, excreting cholesterol, and keeping

the small intestine free of parasites. Both are essential to overall

health and are important factors in preventing premature aging.

 

So, if you're among the millions of Americans who suffer from

dyspeptic complaints, forget about the pharmaceuticals that decrease

the acid that's vital to healthy digestion and health and longevity.

Consider adding Artichoke Leaf Extract, mastic, Digezyme® and

Lactobacillus sporogenes to your health regimen. These safe digestive

aids naturally boost the body's ability to absorb and assimilate

nutrients without harmful side effects…and will maximize the health of

your digestive tract and promote the health of your entire body.

 

References

 

1. King, John E., M.D., editor in chief. Mayo Clinic on Digestive

Health. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; Mayo

Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.

 

 

2. Chopra, Deepak, M.D. Perfect Digestion: The key to balanced

living. New York: Harmony Books, 1995.

 

 

3. Lukaczer, Dan, N.D. " Gastrointestinal Health and Disease. "

Nutrition Science News, December, 1996.

 

 

4. Alternative Medicine Review 1997; 2(2):116-127.

 

 

5. Shmuely H, Obure S, Passaro DJ, Abuksis G, Yahav J, Fraser G, et

al. Association between dyspeptic symptoms and Helicobacter pylori

infection in Nakuru, Kenya. Emerg Infect Dis [serial online] 2003 Sept

[date cited]. http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/vol9no9/02-0374.htm

 

 

6. Haruma K, Kamada T, Kawaguchi H, Okamoto S, Yoshihara M, Sumii

K, Inoue M, Kishimoto S, Kajiyama G, Miyoshi A. Effect of age and

Helicobacter pylori infection on gastric acid secretion. J

Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2000 Mar;15(3):277-83.

 

 

7. Krasinski Sd, Russell Rm, et al. Fundic atrophic gastritis in an

elderly population. Effect on hemoglobin and several serum nutritional

indicators. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1986 Nov;34(11):800-6.

 

 

8. Grossman MI, Kirsner JB, Gillespie IE. Basal and

histalog-stimulated gastric secretion in control subjects and in

patients with peptic ulcer or gastric cancer. Gastroenterology

1963;45:15-26.

 

 

9. S.M. Wildi et al. " The influence of rapid food intake on

postprandial reflux: Studies in health volunteers. " Am J

Gastroenterol, Sept. 2004. Vol.99 No.9

 

 

10. Bupa-the personal health service:

http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/Dyspepsia.html

 

 

11. Wright, Jonathan, M.D. " Theory of aging, part II. "

http://www.tahoma-clinic.com/aging2.shtml

 

 

12. Noto T, Nagasaki M, Yomota E, Endo T. Gastric mucosal

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