Stop Digestive Discomfort Naturally

[Guest guest]

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

diseaseNutrition, digestion, absorption, and

bacterial balance all play significant roles in the health of your

gastrointestinal tract­and 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

fast­especially when you're feeling stressed­and 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.

Some people have persistent indigestion that is unrelated to any of these

factors. This type of indigestion­called functional or non-ulcer

dyspepsia­may 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

sense­if 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 health­and ultimately, your body ages more quickly.

 

Low stomach acidTechnically 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 acid­which 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 stomachs­not 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, herbicides­you 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 illnessThe 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

..

6

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

enzymesInadequate 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

Heartburn­why 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

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 absorbedWhen

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 relief­but 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 gastin­a 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 drugs­beyond 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 should­in 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 acidKnown 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

Cimetidine­Tagamet). 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

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 up­because 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

ExtractArtichoke 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 plant­Cynara

scolymnus­is 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 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

CholestasisCholestasis

­decreased bile flow­is 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 hyperthyroidism.

Regardless of the cause, the consequence is that cholesterol and toxins

remain in the liver which can injure liver cells and

function.

22

Scientific studiesA 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 symptoms­abdominal pain,

bloating, flatulence, right-sided abdominal cramps, and

constipation­along 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 artichole leaf

extract as good or

excellent.

24 A double-blind clinical trial that studied the impact of artichole

leaf extract 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 artichole leaf extract

reduced the formation of cholesterol for several hours following

exposure.

26 Artichoke leaf 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. artichole leaf extract 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 GumThis 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 tissue­all 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

heartburn.

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 lactobacillus­commonly called acidophilus­have a

short shelf life and need 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

vaginitis

38

Antibiotic-induced diarrhea in

children

39

High

cholesterol

40

 

Constipation

41

Imbalance of intestinal

microflora

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

an excellent supplement to aid in replenishing normal intestinal flora.

 

ConclusionStomach 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 artichole 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:

 

King, John E., M.D., editor in chief.

Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health. Mayo

Foundation for Medical Education and Research; Mayo Clinic, Rochester,

Minnesota. Chopra, Deepak, M.D. Perfect Digestion: The key

to balanced living. New York: Harmony Books, 1995. Lukaczer, Dan, N.D. " Gastrointestinal Health

and Disease. " Nutrition Science News,

December, 1996. Alternative Medicine

Review 1997; 2(2):116-127. 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

 

 

Abstract

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.

 

Abstract

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.

 

Abstract

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. 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

 

 

Abstract

Bupa-the personal health service:

 

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

Wright, Jonathan, M.D. " Theory of aging,

part II. "

 

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

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

mucosal functioning following withdrawal of omeprazole in rats.

Arzneimittelforschung. 1998 Jan;48(1):70-3.

 

 

Abstract

Havu N, Mattsson H, Ekman L, Carlsson E.

Enterochromaffin-like cell carcinoids in the rat gastric mucosa following

long-term administration of ranitidine.

Digestion. 1990;45(4):189-95.

 

 

Abstract

Delle Fave G, Helander H, Holt S, et al. Acid

suppression and gastric mucosal biology. Dig Dis

Sci. 1994 Sep;39(9):1843-52.

 

 

Abstract

Balch, James, M.D., Walker, Morton, M.D.

Heartburn and What To Do About It. Avery

Publishing Group, Garden City Park, New York, 1998. pp12-14. National Digestive Disease Education and

information Clearinghouse. Cirrhosis of the liver. DD Clearinghouse Fact

Sheet. Public Health Service, NIH: U.S. Dept of Health and Human

Services, 2989. " When it's not an ulcer. " Consumer

Reports, August 1995, p. 552. EMedicine consumer health

 

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/articles/43286-6.asp

 

 

http://www.Medicinenet.com

 

http://www.medicinenet.com/omeprazole/article.htm Swidey, Neil. " How the Drug Companies

Deceive You: The Inside Story of Nexium. " Boston

Globe November 17, 2002. Jordan, Karin G., M.D. " The Artichoke, More

Than Just a Gourmet Food. " Life Extension

Magazine, July 1999. " Artichoke Extract: Improves Digestion,

Liver Function, and Cholesterol Levels. " Natural Medicine

Journal, Aug/Sept. Vol. 1, No.7, 1998. Kirchoff R, et al. Increase in choleresis by

means of artichoke extract. Results of a randomized placebo-controlled

double-blind study. Phytomedicine 1;107, 1994. Walker AF, Middleton RW, Petrowicz O. Artichoke

leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a

post-marketing surveillance study. Phytotherapy

Research, 2001. Vol. 15: 58-61.

 

 

Abstract

Petrowicz O, Gebhardt R, Donner M, Schwandt P,

Kraft K: effects of artichoke leaf extract on lipoprotein metabolism in

vitro and in vivo. Atherosclerosis 129: 147,

1997. Gebhardt R. Antioxidative and protective

properties of extract from leaves of the artichoke (Cynara scolymnus L.)

against hydro-peroxide-induced oxidative stress incultured rat

hepatocytes. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol

144:279-286, 1997.

 

 

Abstract

Hartwell JL. Plants used against cancer. Lloydia

1967;30/4:379-436. Huwez FU, Thirlwell D, Cockayne A, Ala'Aldeen DA.

Mastic gum kills Helicobacter pylori. NEJM

1998 Dec 24;339(26):1946.

 

 

Abstract

Jones RG, Trowbridge DB, Go MF. Helicobacter

pylori infection in peptic ulcer disease and gastric malignancy.

Front Biosci 2001 Dec 1;6:E213-26. Review.

 

Abstract

Huwez FU, Thirlwell D, Cockayne A, Ala'Aldeen DA.

Mastic gum kills Helicobacter pylori. NEJM

1998 Dec 24;339(26):1946.

 

Abstract

Huwez FU, Al-Habbal MJ. Mastic in treatment of

benign gastric ulcers. Gastroenterol Jpn 1986

Jun;21(3):273-4.

 

 

Abstract

Al-Said MS, Ageel AM, Parmar NS, Tariq M.

Evaluation of mastic, a crude drug obtained from Pistacia lentiscus for

gastric and duodenal anti-ulcer activity. J

Ethnopharmacol 1986;15:271-8.

 

Abstract

Al-Habbal MJ, Al-Habbal Z, Huwez FU. A

double-blind controlled clinical trial of mastic and placebo in the

treatment of duodenal ulcer. J Clin Exp Pharm

Physiol 1984;11:541-4.

 

Abstract

Afzal M, Al-Hadidi D, Menon M, Pesek J, Dhami MS.

Ginger: an ethnomedical, chemical and pharmacological review. Drug

Metabol Drug Interact. 2001;18(3-4):159-90.

 

 

Abstract

Mahady GB, Pendland SL, Yun GS, Lu ZZ, Stoia A.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and the gingerols inhibit the growth

of Cag A+ strains of Helicobacter pylori. Anticancer

Res. 2003 Sep-Oct;23(5A):3699-702.

 

Abstract

al-Yahya MA, Rafatullah S, Mossa JS, et al.

Gastroprotective activity of ginger zingiber officinale rosc., in albino

rats. Am J Chin Med. 1989;17(1-2):51-6.

 

 

Abstract

Gonlachanvit S, Chen YH, Hasler WL, Sun WM,

Owyang C. Ginger reduces hyperglycemia-evoked gastric dysrhythmias in

healthy humans: possible role of endogenous prostaglandins. J

Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2003 Dec;307(3):1098-103.

Epub 2003 Oct 08.

 

 

Abstract

Hughes VL, Hillier SL. Microbiologic

characteristics of Lactobacillus products used for colonization of the

vagina. Obstet Gynecol. 1990 Feb;75(2):244-8.

 

Abstract

La Rosa M, Bottaro G, Gulino N, Gambuzza F, Di

Forti F, Ini G, Tornambe E. [Prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea

with Lactobacillus sporogens and fructo-oligosaccharides in children. A

multicentric double-blind vs placebo study][Article in Italian]

Minerva Pediatr. 2003 Oct;55(5):447-52.

 

 

Abstract

Mohan JC, Arora R, Khalilullah M. Preliminary

observations on effect of lactobacillus sporogenes on serum lipid levels

in hypercholesterolemic patients. Indian J Med

Res. 1990 Dec;92:431-2.

 

Abstract

Voichishina LG, Chaplinskii VI, V'iunitskaia VA.

The use of sporulating bacteria in treating patients with dysbacteriosis.

Vrach Delo 1991; 12:73-75. [Article in

Russian]

 

 

Abstract

Smirnov VV, Reznik SR, V'iunitskaia VA, et al.

The effect of the complex probiotic sporolact on the intestinal

microbiocenosis of warm-blooded animals. Mikrobiol

Z 1995;57:42-49. [Article in Russian]

 

 

Abstract

Marlett JA, McBurney MI, Slavin JL; American

Dietetic Association. Position of the American Dietetic Association:

health implications of dietary fiber. J Am Diet

Assoc. 2002 Jul;102(7):993-1000.

 

 

Abstract