Summer is here, 4th of July is this weekend, and I thought it would be helpful and timely to provide a few easy, safe tips for some common digestive problems.

I asked Christophe R. Merville D. Pharm. if he would provide a guest blog about Digestive Problems and Homeopathy. Christophe  is the Director of Education and Pharmacy Development at Boiron USA, Newton Square, PA 19073. Christophe has been the driving force behind developing and providing quality  educational programs and materials for pharmacists and consumers on the proper use and the benefits of homeopathy.

Here are Christophe’s thoughts and suggestions.

Preventing digestive problems

A balanced diet is a key factor in preventing indigestion, constipation and other digestion problems. We all have different needs in terms of diet. A growing child, a pregnant or nursing woman, an athlete or a sedentary worker all need different quantities and types of food. Eating a variety of fresh foods keeps us supplied with vitamins, minerals and essential elements that we need in small quantities but are necessary to keep our health.

Eating slowly in a quiet and relaxed environment is also a good habit because digestion is easier and we are satisfied sooner. Eating at regular hours facilitates digestion because the digestive system gets used to working at regular times and is more efficient.

Lifestyle affects on eating habits and digestion system

Never in history has it been so easy to find food, yet it is so difficult to eat right. Many suffer from digestive disorders mainly because of poor eating habits. The rush of modern times has driven many of use to eat too fast, too much, and at irregular hours—often in a stressful environment.

Additionally relieving stress often improves digestive symptoms. Stress can manifest itself through the digestive system in the form of symptoms or “signals” such as canker sores and / or heartburn.

Recognizing and listening to important signals from our digestive system

When the body begins to become off balance, we often know it through our digestive system: mouth, stomach, intestine, liver. Staying healthy means being attentive to the signs our body sends us. Homeopathic medicines are a safe and reliable option to restore our balance before the situation worsens, and should be taken at the first sign of symptoms.

The homeopathic approach of treating illness is based on the understanding that symptoms are an expression of the body’s attempt to correct an imbalance. Because they work with the body instead of directly suppressing symptoms, patients and physicians are able to detect and respond faster should a more serious condition arise.

In the case of stomach pain, the body is alerting us that something is wrong. Pain can be a sign of a serious condition, which could lead to the formation of an ulcer or other conditions requiring a physician’s care. A painkiller will mask the pain without treating the underlying disorder. Since homeopathic medicines do not mask symptoms, a physician will know if another problem is present and be able to treat it.

Benefits of homeopathic medicines

Homeopathic medicines are therapeutically active micro-doses of mineral, botanical and biological substances. They are one of the safest choices for self-treatment, and are generally free of side effects. They do not interact with conventional medications or herbal remedies, which allows patients to complement other treatments. Additionally, they are not contraindicated with existing conditions, making them safe for even high-risk patients with heart disease or liver problems.

These unique safety benefits are valued by many: parents; seniors on medication; athletes and fitness buffs who avoid substances that hinder their performance; and under medical supervision, pregnant and nursing women.

Homeopathic medicines for digestive symptoms

Similar other over-the-counter drugs, homeopathic medicines are available as single active ingredients or multiple active ingredients. Combining of several active medicines helps target a specific set of symptoms like heartburn or gas. These types of medicines offer a quick and simple solution to patients who are not yet familiar with single medicines.

Single medicines allow you to address very specific symptoms.

Here are four useful single medicines for digestive symptoms:

 Nux vomica  

Symptoms

• Heartburn and drowsiness from excessive eating or drinking
• Excessive intake of coffee, tobacco, alcohol, rich food
• Digestive spasms, nausea, coated tongue
• Desire for stimulants, spicy food and coffee
• Irritability, anger

Symptoms are improved by a short nap after meals.

These types of digestive problems are often due to a sedentary lifestyle, overindulgence of food or drinks, and business worries.

Take Nux vomica 12C, 5 pellets several times a day.

Antimonium crudum

Symptoms

• Indigestion with nausea
• Belching with the taste of ingested food
• Excess intake of acidic food or cured meat

Symptoms are improved by warm applications on the abdomen.

These types of digestive problems are due to overindulgence, often from frustration or sadness.

Take Antimonium crudum 6C, 5 pellets 4 times a day.

Lycopodium

Symptoms

• Bloated abdomen (under the belt) even after light meals
• Drowsiness after meals, long naps
• Headache, often with pain above the eyes, associated with digestive symptoms
• Heartburns, acid reflux

Symptoms are improved by hot drinks and food, and cool air.

Symptoms are aggravated between 4 and 8 p.m.

Take Lycopodium 6C, 5 pellets several times a day.

Carbo vegetabilis

Symptoms

• Bloated abdomen, above the belt
• Slow digestion with belching
• Congestion after meals
• Intolerance to greasy or fatty food and wine

Symptoms are improved by belching and being fanned.

Take Carbo vegetabilis 6C, 5 pellets several times a day.

There are many homeopathic medicines for digestive symptoms and self-medication books available to help you in your selection. One of the most popular is The Family Guide for Homeopathy by Dr. Alain Horvilleur. Additionally, a physician trained in homeopathy may be able to answer specific questions and offer more in-depth help.

Conclusion

Eating is one of the great pleasures of life, yet poor eating habits can lead to major problems that degrade the quality of our life. Keep your body in balance through eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Also, be attentive to the body’s signals and use homeopathic medicines at the first sign of symptoms to treat common digestive symptoms.