The digestive system requires a balance of enzymes and bacteria to function properly, but various factors can cause digestive problems. Heartburn, acid reflux, lactose intolerance, constipation, and inflammatory bowel disease are common issues that can often be addressed with lifestyle and dietary changes. Medications may be necessary for more serious conditions.
The organs that make up the digestive system in the human body are an amazing feat of mechanical engineering. Indeed, the digestive system represents a delicate ecosystem in which the right balance of enzymes and “friendly” bacteria is needed to digest food and absorb nutrients. Unfortunately, a lot of things can go wrong and lead to a variety of digestive problems. Poor diet, chronic stress, excessive alcohol use, smoking, and autoimmune diseases are just some of the factors that can cause stomach upset. Fortunately, many of the most common digestive problems can be addressed with simple lifestyle and dietary changes.
Heartburn and acid reflux strike almost everyone at one time or another. Overeating, pregnancy, and certain medications can often be blamed for these episodes. When the occasional burning sensation becomes chronic, the condition may have progressed to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Symptoms of “normal” heartburn and acid reflux can usually be prevented by limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding spicy foods, and refraining from lying down or leaning forward shortly after eating. GERD, on the other hand, is of a more serious nature justifying medications with H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors.
Lactose intolerance is responsible for producing a range of digestive problems, including diarrhea, nausea, bloating and abdominal pain. This occurs when there is a lack of lactase, the enzyme needed to break down and digest the sugar found in cow’s milk. Supplementation with this enzyme can end symptoms in many cases. Additionally, lactose-free dairy products are available in most areas of the developed world.
Constipation is probably the most common digestive problem, especially among the elderly. Many people misinterpret what constitutes constipation and become concerned if they can’t produce a bowel movement every day. In reality, a normal rhythm is considered to be anywhere from two or three times a day to just three times a week. The problem can be exacerbated by excessive use of laxatives, which only serve to train the intestines to become dependent on artificial stimulation. A better approach to getting to the bottom of this problem is to increase your fiber intake and get regular exercise.
Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses several digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease. These digestive problems result from a faulty immune response that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the digestive tract. While a balanced diet is certainly a consideration in treating these disorders, the typical course of symptom management often includes medications, such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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