April 2015 Newsletter - Indigestion, Ginger Tea and Fennel

Natural Remedies for Indigestion

What is Indigestion?

Indigestion is often painful and very annoying. Feeling full and having a burning feeling are two of the many symptoms associated with indigestion. It is possible that those with indigestion have ulcers, gallbladder disease, IBS or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

What are the symptoms of Indigestion?

The symptoms associated with indigestion are could be a noisy stomach, burning or pain in the upper abdominal area, gas and burping, and a bloated feeling.

How Can I Cure Indigestion?

To cure indigestion you would have to get to the root of the problem. Use this checklist to help you determine what is causing the problem and talk to your doctor as well.

1. Is it more likely to happen at night? Perhaps, late meals or snacking should be avoided. Most agree that we should stop eating about three hours before bedtime.
2. Does it happen every time you eat? Is it something you are eating? Is your food too high in fat or is it spicy?
3. Do you eat too fast or not chew enough?
4. Do you have food intolerances? A common intolerance is wheat. A less common one is corn. Keep a food diary and eat simple whole foods to see if you can nail down the culprit.
5. Do you smoke or drink? These both can cause stomach problems. Quitting both may improve your condition.
6. Are you under too much stress? Stress can cause indigestion. Try to reduce stress in your life. Reduce your workload, volunteering or have your family help you more. Many working moms are overloaded.
7. Are you overeating? Eating too much at once can cause all sorts of problems. Plan ahead every meal to eat just a little less so you don't overdo it.

What Natural Remedies Can Be Used For Indigestion?

There are a number of herbs and teas that might help relieve your indigestion. Additionally, exercise plays an important role in digestion.

1. Take a short walk after every meal. Keep your digestion running smoothly by taking a little walk after each meal. It doesn't have to be very long, just enough to get things to settle down.
2. Never lean back or lay down after eating. Sit up straight or do the dishes so that your body remains in an optimal position for digestion.
3. Cardamom is immensely helpful for those with stomach problems. Put about 1/4 tsp of ground cardamom in your tea or more if needed. You might also brew your tea with some cardamom pods.
4. Ginger added to your tea is also helpful in soothing digestive issues. A little fresh ginger goes a long way. You can also use ground ginger - about 1/4 tsp per cup.
5. Lemon juice in hot water is useful to many. You can even add some cardamom, ginger, or other herbs like mint, clove or cinnamon.
6. Lastly, fennel is a great way to reduce bloating and gas.

If you use all or some of these ideas, you should see your indigestion improve. If you do have an underlying medical problem, you may wish to take medications as well. Make sure your doctor knows about any herbs you are taking.

Healthy Food for April

Prince of PeaceGreen Ginger Tea

A delicously warm, soothing green ginger tea from Prince of Peace also contains licorice, green tea and stevia. No need to add sugar! With a pleasant aroma and smooth taste, this tea will quickly become your favorite.

Staff Pick for April

Stomach Comfort Extract, Stomach Supplement

Sale Price: $11.69

Dr. Christopher's Stomach Comfort Extract, Stomach Supplement, has catnip and fennel which is a great combination for colic, teething pain, flatulence, spasms, etc.

Peppermint Gels - 90 Gels, NOW Foods

Peppermint Gels - 90 Gels, NOW Foods

Peppermint Oil is an extremely potent form of the ancient herb Peppermint. We have added Ginger and Fennel Oils for their synergistic effects. We enteric coat our softgels to allow the three herbal oils to pass through the stomach and release within the intestines.