One third of the UK population regularly suffers from digestive illnesses, such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach-aches and nausea and almost 15% of deaths in the UK are linked to the digestive tract . . .
Almost 2 million people in the UK were diagnosed with a digestive disorder last year and one third of the UK population regularly suffers from digestive illnesses, such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach-aches and nausea.
Over 3.7 million operations were carried out on parts of the digestive system in the UK in 2005/06 Almost 15% of deaths in the UK are linked to the digestive tract GPs prescribed drugs costing more than £562 million for the gastrointestinal system last year in England 42% of people suffering from digestive problems turn to sources other than their GP for help Cancers of the digestive tract account for 23% of cancer deaths (7)
Nutrients vital to body function are absorbed in the gut and toxic by-products are eliminated via the gut. The gut is therefore vital to every aspect of health, unfortunately, gut dysfunction is linked to a huge range of conditions
Most commonly:
irritable bowel syndrome
Crohn's disease
ulcerative colitis
bowel cancer
peptic or duodenal ulcer
coeliac disease
diverticulitis
constipation
gallstones
diarrhoea
indigestion
Common causes of gut dysfunction include:
food allergies/intolerances (such as lactose intolerance)
stress
insufficient production of digestive enzymes
insufficient hydrochloric acid production (for protein digestion)
lack of beneficial bacteria (probiotics)
use of antibiotics
parasites and bacterial infection
high sugar/low fibre diets
eating "on the run"
If the following symptoms are persistent and without obvious reason, it is wise to see your doctor:
Abdominal pain before or after meals
Nausea or vomiting
Pain or difficulty in swallowing
Loss of appetite
Continuing unexplained weight loss
Diarrhoea, constipation or any alteration in bowel habit
Change in stools (bowel motions) especially if they become black, dark red, pale or contain mucus (slime)
Bleeding when you pass a stool
Pain when you pass a stool
Feeling that your bowels are not emptying completely
Generally feeling tired, lethargic or unwell in association with any abdominal symptoms
Lifestyle Tips:
Eat slowly and chew well.
Eat a high fibre, balanced diet, choosing whole grains*, fresh vegetables (raw and cooked), fresh fruit, lean meats, eggs.
Avoid common allergens, such as wheat and milk, to see if this improves your digestive health.
Drink plenty of clean water, between meals.
Try stress management techniques, such as yoga.
Allow enough hours for sleep.
Millet, quinoa, buckwheat and amaranth are gluten-free, do not feed candida, and act as prebiotics, have a calming effect, and are full of vitamins and minerals.
