Tummy issues seem to be on the rise – and with the amount of processed foods and artificial ingredients on the market, it’s not a surprise. Gut health is a great indicator for how well the body’s most important systems are functioning. And tummy issues can get in the way of other healthy lifestyle choices as well.
If you’re frequently dealing with an upset stomach, constipation, bloating, or other GI issues, it should be a wakeup call to pay closer attention to your gut. The good news? There are holistic remedies that can help you rebalance your microbiome and get back in the swing of things.
Common Causes of GI Distress
While some cases of prolonged stomach pain may be an indicator of underlying illness, there are plenty of other things that can lead to tummy troubles – many of which can be addressed with simple diet and lifestyle changes. Here are some common causes of GI distress:
- Too Much Processed Food – Greasy or fried foods can trigger diarrhea, nausea and smelly gas.
- Pregnancy and/or Menstruation – Hormonal changes can cause a shift in the way the digestive system responds to certain foods.
- Gluten Intolerance or Allergy – Reducing or eliminating gluten from your diet may relieve bloating, a common complaint from those with gluten intolerance.
- Dramatic Diet Changes – Simply switching to a healthy diet too quickly can also throw the stomach off. Gradual diet changes are best for having a smooth transition to a healthier lifestyle.
5 Natural Remedies for GI Distress
Activated Charcoal – Used to help with gas and indigestion, activated charcoal works by absorbing some toxins and chemicals. However, it can also cause nausea for some.
Slippery Elm Powder – Made from the inner bark of the slippery elm tree, this natural powder relieves diarrhea and GI symptoms triggered by IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome.
Pumpkin Puree – Containing both soluble and insoluble dietary fibers, pumpkin can help with constipation and diarrhea. Whether you’re going to the bathroom too much or not enough, pumpkin is a great way to regulate bowel movements and make the consistency and shape of stool more normal.
Marshmallow Root – Often sold in powder form, marshmallow root helps decrease inflammation, improve stool consistency and prevent stomach ulcers.
Calming Yoga Poses – Feeling stuck or gassy? There are certain stretches that target the digestive system and help relieve pressure by promoting smooth digestion. Wind-relieving pose, cobra pose, and legs-up-the-wall are all beginner-friendly options for easing GI symptoms.
Be Proactive! Protect Your Gut with Prebiotics
Another way to take care of your tummy is to prep your gut for greatness. While it’s not always realistic to eliminate tummy issues completely, maintaining a healthy microbiome can help you prevent the severity of GI distress and put yourself in the best position to enjoy easy digestion.
One of the first places to start is to include plenty of prebiotics in your diet. Here are some foods that are rich in prebiotics – and great for gut health:
- Green bananas
- Asparagus
- Jicama
- Sauerkraut
- Pineapple
- Apple cider vinegar
- Ginger
- Kimchi
Here’s to fewer tummy troubles and better digestion!
