Darrick Robles Sometimes the stomach rumbles, sometimes the intestines rumble: Digestive problems can manifest themselves in very different ways. Diarrhea, flatulence and constipation occasionally occur in healthy people and usually have harmless causes. If the symptoms are very acute, home remedies can help. If you have certain symptoms, you should still seek medical help.
Digestive issues are one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor’s office. The complaints emanate from the abdominal organs and are expressed in
Why does digestion go haywire?
Digestion begins in the mouth. As we chew, we produce enzyme-rich saliva. The enzymes roughly break down the components of the food. The food is further digested in the stomach. From there it continues into the duodenum, small intestine, and large intestine , where billions of bacteria do the rest.
The causes of gastrointestinal complaints are as varied as our digestion is complex:
- food intolerances
- Greasy and difficult to digest food
- alcohol, cigarettes, medicines
- Gastroenteritis ( “stomach flu” )
- Gastritis
- gastric ulcer
- norovirus infection
Chronic diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease can also be behind it.
Our digestion is controlled by nerve cells that have a direct connection to the brain. In addition to physical causes, stress can also cause stomach discomfort, for example before an important exam.
Home remedies for gastrointestinal problems
Because digestion begins in the mouth, you can prevent digestive problems there. Eat small portions and chew thoroughly to relieve the stomach and intestines. In the case of acute indigestion , you can use proven home remedies to relieve the symptoms.
This helps with diarrhea
You lose a lot of fluids, so drinking a lot is important. In the case of acute diarrhea with abdominal cramps , the following home remedies can calm the stomach and intestines.
- Carrot soup: Moro’s carrot soup is a classic against diarrhea germs. The soup provides fluid while the fiber in the carrots helps solidify the stool.
- Lactic Acid Bacteria: Probiotics are found in plain yogurt, buttermilk, and beetroot. The little helpers can promote healthy intestinal activity.
- Fennel Tea: Fennel is known to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. The heat soothes irritated mucous membranes.
That helps with nausea
If you are nauseous, you should not eat high-fat foods. In case of vomiting, rusks protect the irritated stomach. If the worst is over, you can also eat white bread, cooked and low-fat foods. You should avoid coffee, alcohol, spices and raw food for a while.
- Ginger: The hot root is a proven remedy for treating nausea and vomiting. You can chew a fresh piece of ginger root or you can make yourself some ginger tea.
- Radish: The juice of the black radish root is said to have an antimicrobial and digestive effect. To do this, peel the radish, grate it and press it through a cloth.
- Herbal tea: Anise, cumin and peppermint can relieve nausea and calm the stomach.
This helps with constipation
Constipation can be painful. To prevent this, you can drink a lot (at least 2 liters a day) and eat fiber (whole grain products, fruit and vegetables). Natural laxatives can help with acute constipation :
- Flaxseed or Prunes: Eat 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed 2-3 times a day with a glass of water. The seeds increase the volume of the intestinal contents and can thus facilitate emptying. Dried plums can also have a laxative effect.
- Morning drink: Drink a glass of water with the juice of half a lemon as soon as you get up. Liquid on an empty stomach can trigger the bowel movement reflex. The morning cup of coffee can also stimulate bowel movements .
- Massages: With an abdominal massage you can stimulate the natural movement of the intestines and loosen up stuck stools. To do this, gently stroke the abdominal wall with both hands in a clockwise motion.
Please keep in mind that home remedies do not always provide immediate relief. It may take a few hours to days for them to take full effect. If the symptoms are severe or last longer, you should seek medical help.
When do I have to go to the doctor?
If you notice blood in your stool, don’t hesitate. See a doctor as soon as possible – especially if you are feeling very unwell, dizzy and have a high fever. You should also get medical help immediately if you vomit blood and have black stools . Both can indicate a serious condition that needs to be treated quickly.
