Acid indigestion involves an excess of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Acid indigestion is some times used interchangeably with heartburn. However, it should be noted that heartburn typically involves aggravation of the esophagus wherein it creates a burning sensation in the middle of your chest caused by acid leaking upwards from the stomach into the esophagus
Foods with too much fat, spicy food, alcohol, caffeine, overeating, exercising or lying down soon after a meal, stress, smoking can cause acid indigestion. Aging can also contribute to frequent indigestion. As we get older, our body starts to produce lower levels of digestive enzymes, sometimes not enough to properly digest food causing indigestion.
In response to our food intake, our body produces about 22 types of digestive enzymes from the salivary gland, stomach and small intestine. Each one of these enzymes acts on specific types of food, for example, proteases break down proteins, amylases help digest carbohydrates and lipases break down fat and lipids. By breaking down these foods, these digestive enzymes help our body digest and absorb the nutrients it needs.
Several effective enzymes are available from natural sources that assist digestive enzymes produced by our body in breaking down proteins, dietary fats and carbohydrates for proper digestion of the food. Examples include Niacinamide, Pancreatin, lipase, ellulase (for digesting plant fibers), protease and amylase. Glycine (an amino acid) and Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) can relieve stomach discomfort by increasing the natural defensive characteristics of the digestive tract.
A variety of natural supplement alternatives for treating acid indigestion and other digestive ailments are readily available in stores and on websites. Look for natural ingredients in these products as they will also help to support and maintain daily wellness. Additional information can be found in searches for Daily Wellness, Digestive/G I Support and Probiotics supplements. One example of a group of probiotics is acidophilus, which is sometimes added to milk.
This probiotic strengthens the immune system and supports healthy and natural digestion through the breakdown of lactose, which maintains the intestinal tract's beneficial bacteria. Aloe Vera, cucumber, calcium and potassium are natural ingredients that assist in the digestive process. Thyme calms the stomach and aids in digestive process by alleviating gas. Rosemary stimulates the appetite and improves the gastric tone. Sodium bicarbonate decreases acids in the blood, urine and stomach.
Natural ingredients in supplements to aid in relieving acid indigestion or upset stomach also help to support and maintain continued good health as a whole.
