Digestive upset can be the result of many things. Indigestion is a discomfort in the abdominal area that often offers after eating a meal, but not always. Symptoms include heartburn, bloating, belching, and nausea. Simple indigestion affects nearly everyone from time to time, and though it is not considered to be a serious health condition, it can be quite uncomfortable. It may also point to other more serious health concerns like celiac disease, food allergies or intolerances, H. Pylori, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD - colitis or crohn's), GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or peptic ulcer disease.
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You can also read more about your treatment options below.
The most important first step is to find out the cause of your indigestion. Are you eating foods that your body is reacting negatively towards? This can occur with both healthy and unhealthy foods and can be identified through food allergy testing. Have you been taking medicationsthat are wearing away of the protective mucus lining of your digestive tract? Perhaps you went on a tropical vacation and picked up a chronic stomach bug? Some people are sensitive to various food combinations or suffer from mental-emotional concerns like anxiety which can lead to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) symptoms. Once the cause has been identified, you will be one step closer to the treatments options that will work best.
Medications are commonly prescribed for most common digestive health concerns. These vary depending on the cause but commonly include antacids for quick relief. Unfortunately they only act as bandaid solutions and if the cause is not removed, the condition often worsens.
If symptoms are severe, your doctor will often refer you to a specialist to rule out more serious concerns like colitis, ulcers or celiac disease.
There are many natural solutions for digestive upset. First and foremost the cause must be identified. Various assessment methods that may be used by the Naturopathic Doctors at KIH clinic include food sensitivity testing. This includes IgG or ALCAT blood testing and screening for antibodies or white blood cell reactivity present in patients with digestive upset. The holistic nutritionist and naturopathic doctors also offer treatment plans that incorporate nutritional counselling, natural remedy prescriptions (enzymes, herbal medicine, vitamins) and acupuncture.
To read more about the practitioners who are trained in treating digestive concerns, or to book an appointment, please click on the associated link:
