NEEDS Natural News - Achieving Optimal Gastrointestinal Health By Clair Whiteman, BioGenesis Nutraceuticals

Achieving Optimal Gastrointestinal Health
Clair Whiteman, BioGenesis Nutraceuticals

Diarrhea, gas, bloating, and constipation—Do you experience these uncomfortable and often embarrassing symptoms on a regular basis? You are not alone. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 40% of Americans face some sort of gastrointestinal health issue. Gastrointestinal issues can cause chronic discomfort and for many patients can be uncomfortable to discuss. Fortunately, there are dietary choices and natural remedies that can help keep these unpleasant symptoms to a minimum.

The key to supporting gastrointestinal health is understanding the different organs involved and how to support their function. Each step in the digestive process plays a unique role, and BioGenesis Nutraceuticals Inc. offers a comprehensive product line that supports the entire gastrointestinal tract.

Gastric Health
The gastrointestinal tract begins in the mouth and follows the esophagus where it enters the stomach. For many Americans, gastrointestinal issues begin here as a result of poor functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Reflux disorders are a result of the spontaneous opening or improper closure of the LES, which allows the stomach's acidic juices to reflux into the esophagus. Reflux disorders, along with ulcers, affect millions of Americans and can cause frequent, burning pain in the esophagus and upper abdomen. Patients can manage their symptoms by maintaining a healthy weight and adopting a dietary pattern that focuses on smaller meals and avoids trigger foods. In addition, many natural products including deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), mastic gum, and aloe vera have been shown to promote mucus production which can soothe inflamed and irritated tissues. In controlled clinical trials, treatment with DGL has been shown to be as effective as common antihistamine-2 blockers in reducing symptoms associated with gastric pain.

Insufficient secretion of hydrochloric acid (HCL) is another common gastric health issue, especially among aging populations. Stomach acid plays a key role in digestion by beginning the breakdown of proteins, freeing dietary minerals for absorption, and protecting the intestinal tract from pathogens. As well as exacerbating symptoms of a reflux disorder, low stomach acid can lead to protein and micronutrient deficiencies and intestinal infections. Many patients also experience systemic symptoms such as acne, rosacea, food allergies, depression, autoimmune-like symptoms, and dry skin, hair, and nails. If you suffer from low stomach acid, a mild HCL and/or digestive enzyme supplement can relieve these adverse symptoms and improve gastrointestinal function and comfort. BioGenesis Ultra Gest is a unique HCL formulation that contains two forms of HCL along with herbal bitters to help support normal HCL production.

Pancreatic Health
The exocrine pancreas has the important role of secreting digestive enzymes. Low digestive enzyme secretion can manifest itself through a variety of symptoms including flatulence and loose stools, poor blood sugar control, asthma, edema, and dry skin and hair. For many patients, a mild digestive enzyme blend with meals offers relief of symptoms as well as enhances nutrient absorption. Since enzymes are protein molecules, look for a brand that protects the enzyme formula from stomach acid. BioGenesis VegiZyme and InflamaZyme both contain a seaweed-derived gastric bypass system called MAKTrek™. This unique system allows enzymes to bypass the harsh environment of the stomach for greater intestinal utilization.

Intestinal Health
The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient digestion and absorption. Unfortunately, many patients experience chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract due to exposure to food allergens, toxic diets, or inflammatory bowel diseases. Chronic low-grade inflammation within the small intestine can cause hyperpermeability of intestinal absorptive cells. The resulting condition, commonly referred to as "leaky gut" causes the body to absorb poorly digested molecules and toxins. Leaky gut has been linked to a variety of conditions including food allergies, weight gain, and autoimmunity. BioGenesis Intestinal Repair Complex is a complete formula for intestinal healing. This powdered formula provides a therapeutic dose of glutamine, an amino acid that is essential for regeneration of intestinal absorptive cells. It also includes mucilaginous herbs and an enzyme blend to support overall gastrointestinal healing and function.

When considering the large intestine or the colon, many patients experience issues with regularity. A high-quality fiber supplement can support regular elimination as well as support appetite control and healthy blood lipid levels. BioGenesis BioLax is a unique encapsulated fiber supplement that provides soluble fiber and herbs for a non-stimulating, laxative effect. Probiotics can also help with regularity.

If you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, work with your healthcare provider to determine what area of digestive support you require. Many digestive symptoms can be managed with appropriate dietary restrictions and a therapeutic nutraceutical protocol.