6/27/2014
Digestive upset is super common, but it’s something that very few people feel comfortable talking about. Lucky for you (or me), I’m not one of those people. I love talking about all things digestion related because it is so important for our health.
The past week, a lot of people have approached me with questions about how to deal with not-so-fun digestive symptoms like gas, bloating, constipation and IBS. While doctors are great and can be helpful, other IBS warriors who have found some relief can also offer tons of great tips and tricks.
In my newsletter this week, I’m sharing four of my top tips for dealing with digestive unease based on my experience and working with other people with these symptoms. Here are four more tips that I hope you find helpful! Please do keep in mind that I am not a doctor. None of my advice is a substitute for medical care.
1. A Heating Pack
Yes, that’s right. I learned this from a physical therapist I was seeing and have never gone back. Simply put a heating pack on your stomach as you eat breakfast, watch TV, lie in bed, or any other activity. It helps immensely with bloating.
2. Massage
Abdominal massage was another super helpful tip from my pelvic floor physical therapist (thanks, Karen!) when my IBS was worse. Start by making small circles right below your belly button and work your way up along your right side until you hit your rib cage, then move across and back down (following your intestinal track). Use as much pressure as you feel comfortable with. This can help stimulate peristalsis and also helped me with bloating.
3. Digestive Enzymes
When I first started to change my diet, I was super bloated! I was eating tons of greens and fiber and I needed help. My naturopath suggested some digestive enzymes and they were a God send! I even remember my mom taking them when I was little when she had digestive upset. Hers tasted really good, too. One of the main ingredients in digestive enzymes usually comes from papaya. Yay whole foods!
4. Reduce Stress
I know, everyone says it. But, what on earth does it mean!!!!! This is one of my least favorite combination of words in the english language. And… it’s true. However, I prefer to think of it as having fun. Where could you be having more fun in your life? What have you been dying to do, but haven’t made time for. That’s how you reduce stress, at least in my book.
Hope these tips and techniques are helpful for you! Please feel free to share any others that work for you in the comment section.
Much love,
Samantha