Chewing
Chewing thoroughly aids further digestion.
Digestion: When the Stomach and Intestines Get Out of Sync
Digestion begins in the mouth and ends in the intestines. Chewing, stomach acid, digestive enzymes, bile, intestinal motility, and gut flora all work together in this process.
If this balance is disrupted, symptoms may arise: a feeling of fullness, bloating, pressure in the stomach, belching, constipation, or abdominal cramps.
How does digestion work?
When we chew, food is broken down and mixed with saliva. It is further processed in the stomach. It then passes into the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed.
The liver, gallbladder, and pancreas produce important digestive juices. Water is absorbed in the large intestine, and stool is formed.
Common Digestive Problems
Possible symptoms include:
- Feeling of fullness
- Flatulence
- Pressure in the stomach
- Belching
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- irregular bowel movements
Common triggers include large meals, eating too quickly, stress, lack of exercise, unfamiliar foods, or not drinking enough fluids.
Feeling of fullness and bloating
A feeling of fullness often occurs after large, high-fat, or hurriedly eaten meals. Bloating occurs when excess gas builds up in the intestines.
Things that may help:
- Eat slowly
- chew thoroughly
- Choose smaller portions
- Cut back on very high-fat foods
- Exercise after a meal
- Monitor carbonated beverages
- Identify individual triggers
Slow digestion and constipation
Slow digestion can lead to less frequent or difficult bowel movements. This is often caused by a lack of exercise, a diet low in fiber, insufficient fluid intake, or changes in daily routine.
The following are helpful:
- more fiber
- drink enough
- exercise regularly
- Take time to use the restroom
- Use flaxseed only with enough liquid
What Helps with Digestion
Small portions
Several light meals may be easier to digest than very large portions.
Bitter
Bitter foods can stimulate the digestive system through their taste.
Exercise
A walk after a meal can be refreshing.
Liquid
Drinking enough water aids digestion and bowel movements.
Silence
Stress and a hectic lifestyle can take a toll on the stomach and intestines.
Plant Knowledge
Artichoke
Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) is a well-known plant associated with digestion and the liver and biliary system.
To the Plant Encyclopedia: Artichoke
Boldo
Boldo (Peumus boldus) is traditionally used to treat mild digestive problems.
To the Plant Encyclopedia: Boldo
Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is traditionally used to treat mild digestive discomfort such as a feeling of fullness and bloating.
To the Plant Encyclopedia: Peppermint
Flaxseed
Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) are traditionally used to treat occasional constipation.
Related Products
Boldocynara® Drops
Boldocynara® It is used to stimulate bile production in the liver to relieve digestive complaints such as bloating, a feeling of pressure in the stomach, and a sensation of fullness.
Boldosan® Tablets
Boldosan® It is traditionally used as an adjunctive treatment for disorders of the liver and biliary system, as well as for digestive problems.
Linoforce® Granules
Linoforce® is a herbal laxative for short-term use in cases of occasional constipation.
These are approved medications. Read the package insert.
When should you seek medical attention for digestive problems?
A medical evaluation is recommended in the following cases:
- severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Blood in the stool
- black stool
- recurrent vomiting
- unexplained weight loss
- persistent diarrhea
- chronic constipation
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- new symptoms that arise in middle age
- Symptoms that are getting significantly worse
If you experience severe pain, blood in your stool, or symptoms that seem serious, you should seek medical help immediately.