Digestion
Healthy digestion means that the food you eat is properly broken down into usable particles and that the digestive tract allows those particles to be absorbed into the bloodstream while preventing larger particles from getting through. It also means that waste products are efficiently eliminated without being held too long. The common Western diet and modern lifestyle often interfere with this complex process—so much so that 62 million Americans are diagnosed with a digestive disorder each year.
According to the National GI Survey, six in ten Americans experience at least one gastrointestinal symptom each week.
Common complaints include heartburn, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Of those who suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea, only 20% seek medical attention.
Good digestion starts with enzymes.
Your body produces three different enzymes to break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats: protease, amylase, and lipase.
This requires proper functioning of the stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver. The microvilli of the intestinal tract also secrete special enzymes. Dietary enzymes and certain herbs can with these processes.
Also critical to digestion and absorption is the lining of the intestinal tract. Certain nutrients help maintain the integrity of the epithelium so only fully-digested particles can pass through.
Hidden infections of the digestive tract can inhibit normal functions and cause a range of symptoms that may be experienced as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Food allergies and sensitivities, chronic gastrointestinal disorders, and gallbladder problems can also cause digestive pain and discomfort.
To help the basic digestive processes, we like these products. Be sure to download a copy of our Stomach Wellness Program and Gut Wellness Program for a more thorough discussion of how to support your digestive health.
Dynamic GI Integrity:
Simply stir this peach tea-flavored powder into water to create a drink that helps heal and protect the digestive tract. Among its many healing nutrients are l-glutamine, which helps maintain the tight junctions of the cells of the intestinal tract to heal and prevent leaky gut, and mucin, which helps form the mucus barrier layer of the GI tract. It’s loaded with herbs that aid digestion, absorption, and elimination like licorice, aloe vera, cat’s claw, and marshmallow root.
Glutamine Powder:
For repairing and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal lining, this powerful amino acid is indispensable. Your body needs more of this nutrient when you’re active or under stress. This single-ingredient product is an especially useful part of a gut health program because it allows you to adjust quantities of l-glutamine up or down as needed during different phases of your program.
