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Today's lifestyle has several unhealthy facets such as
lack of physical activity, poor sleep habits and consumption of unhealthy foods,
including fast, processed and junk food.Hectic work schedules have increased
stress levels (which, in turn, has led to disturbed sleep), unhealthy dietary
habits such as eating either too much or too less, and, more often than not, not
spending enough time to eat well. Smoking and alcoholism are other aspects that
have led to health issues.
The negative outcome of this stress-filled lifestyle is visible in the form of
ill health, the most common being poor digestive health. This is worsened by the
decreasing ability of the digestive system to function efficiently with age and
handle digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, flatulence and
gastritis.
According to Dr Rajesh Kumawat, Head - Medical Services and Clinical
Development, The Himalaya Drug Company, digestive problems should not be ignored
as they can cause irreversible complications in the long run. Several medicinal
herbs and natural ingredients, some of which are well known and a part of Indian
cuisine, can help in managing digestive problems the natural way.
Ginger: A common flavouring agent in the Indian kitchen, ginger
has a pungent smell and a warming effect when consumed. It is a home remedy for
indigestion, and stimulates gastric acids and digestive enzymes that improve
digestion. Ginger also helps in expelling gas from the digestive system.
Black Pepper: A seasoning as well as flavouring agent, black
pepper is a common spice. It contains a compound called Piperine that improves
the absorption of nutrients. Black pepper improves the secretion of bile acids
and thus the breakdown of foods. It also expels gas from the digestive system
and hence is useful in curing flatulence, belching, etc.
Triphala: An effective Ayurvedic blend of fruits of three herbs
-- amla (gooseberry), haritaki (chebulic myrobalan), bibhitaki (Belleric
myrobalan), triphala is known for its health benefits. It prevents the
accumulation of gas in the digestive system, improves the contractile movement
of muscles of the digestive system and helps in the movement of food. Triphala
also helps in curing indigestion.
Fennel Seeds: Commonly used as a mouth freshener, fennel seeds
have several digestive system-friendly medicinal properties. It has an
antispasmodic action that helps in relaxing the contracted intestinal muscles.
Fennel seeds also help in expelling gas from the digestive system.
Shankha Bhasma: An Ayurvedic preparation made from conch shell,
shankha bhasma improves appetite and digestion, and also provides relief from
digestive problems like gastritis and duodenitis.
While these ingredients can be used individually or in combination for better
management of digestive problems, it is always advisable to consult your doctor
for appropriate dosage before taking them.
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