Effective Natural Digestive Remedies: Heal Your Gut Naturally

Dietary Changes

Posted by Jem (Aberdeen) on 11/30/2012

Hi all, My problem is one of digestion/gut trouble but before I realized this I have been suffering for a longtime (10 years) with back/knee pain and very tight muscles and I dont sleep well due to the bad back. Joint pain in my neck, fingers, elbow and shoulder has also increased progressively.

It was only after a friend mentioned that all the trouble with my back could be due to my diet that I looked into it further since doctors and consultants that I had been previously referred to were unfortunately unable to help me.

The general signs of problems with my digestion are that I do get bloated sometimes. Flatulence is also another problem and I do almost always see undigested matter in stools. Sometimes food comes back up after eating but depends (on what I eat most probably).

I decided to have an allergy test done which also gave readings of which minerals I was deficient in which turned up the following results.

Im strongly allergic to milk (cow goat), cheese, butter, yoghurt, lactose, beef, lamb, pork, capsicum, tomato, strawberry, orange, coffee, chocolate, cocoa, tea, lemonade, sugar.

I'm also allergic to wheat but it was secondary as opposed to the above that I am primarily allergic to.

The vitamin/mineral deficiencies were: Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 (I found this strange because I regularly take a vitamin B complex, for nerve issues, that contains all of these).

Deficiency was also seen in Vitamin H(Biotin), Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin P, Vitamin K, Potassium, Magnesium, Silicon, Zinc, Chromium.

In fatty acids I was lacking GLA, EPA and Alpha Linolenic Acid and the Amino Acid test section showed I was lacking Gluthathione.

The prognosis on my the Digestive side marked I was suffering from Intestinal Gas (Excess), LactoBacillus Deficiency and Leaky Gut.

The Endocrine System Test marked I had Pancreatic Insufficiency.

Basically the course of treatment I was prescribed would be to get a load of good bacteria down me and to start alkalizing my blood as I appeared to be a classic case of too much acid. I have been eating a little bit of kefir from a local store which seems to be ok with me as opposed to cold mik and cold cheese which makes my stomach upset. However when I drink warm milk or warm cheese (cheese on toast), the symptoms with my stomach aren't as bad as with cold forms. I've also been trying ACV BS and this really does seem to make me warm and 'energised'. I tried this to get more acid production in my stomach as I thought I may be lacking in this but the iodine mineral test showed I was not deficient in this however I have started to incorporate a 1teaspoon of himalayan salts in a glass of water, a day, just in case as sometimes I do feel like my food comes back up; its not like the commonly thought of indigestion or acid reflux but I think its more like the food just sitting there and fermenting. However the pancreatic insufficiency was positive so perhaps im lacking those enzymes along with some bicarbonates. I tried calcium for bones but the test showed my levels of calcium (and vitamin D) are ok. But then again its mainly joint pain I get so more likely to be cartilage damage which I was taking glucosomine for, but didn't really help.

The problems with my muscular pain could all be driven by my gut trouble now as I have come to understand; when digestion, or parts of it, is compromised for whatever reason the body takes energy from 'good areas' to supply the damaged parts of the body. This ends up depleting the good areas of energy as energy is diverted to the dysfunctional areas.

My diet is mixed to be honest I mean I do eat good but also have some bad foods too (although I hardly ever eat fast or junk food but more of freezer/frozen food unfortunately which im cutting down on) but i've started to wean myself of things like wheat and dairy and I've started incorporating things like apples, kale and more fish.

I was prescribed some probiotics and various tablets/powders but I dont really want to go down this route as they're all synthetic, man made and and I'd rather go the natural route with herbs and simple but natural remedies.

I have read much of the suggested remedies on here including Ted's and others but I am unsure how to proceed although I have an idea about what I could start of with (Lemon juice BS looks a good start and I've started this) but in light of my prognosis above can anyone pinpoint what may be my specific issues if they've had similar, what did you try, and any ideas on what I could start doing and taking. Thanks

General Feedback

Posted by Margo (L.a. Cal , Usa) on 11/30/2012

Hate to even bring this issue up.. However, make sure he is not being molested by someone.. I've heard of that causing symptoms.. Sorry.. just a thought.

General Feedback

Posted by Ed2010 (Oakville, Canada) on 11/30/2012

Hello Sara, Endoscopy, Barium Enema, or colonoscopy can reveal some truth. If you don't want to do it. that is fine.

Your son's stomach pain can be due to infection, food allergy, auto immune, food intolerance

To start with

Take Teds ACV - Baking Soda formula - Half the amount than what is mentioned in this site but with full glass of water. When you alkalize your body, it starts to heal.

Take 1 cup of Home Made Milk Kefir two times a day. Milk kefir can take care of infection, allergy and intolerance. You can get kefir grains easily in Toronto. you can watch plenty of youtube videos on how to make milk kefir.

try this for 2 - 3 weeks, if your son feels good, fine. Or you may have to consult a TCM or Homeopath.

Also

Try to prepare a food chart what your son is having from morning till night. Categorize the food he is taking as given below. Record the details for 3 weeks

Time | Food Name | Organic/Non organic | Non Gmo / Gmo | Home cooked / Store Bought

replace most of the foods with

1. Organic

2. Non GMO

3. Home Cooked

No Die based foods or color. popsicles, candy, cola's, colored bakeries etc.

Good Health

General Feedback

Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 11/29/2012

Hi Sara, I see you said you have no hope in conventional medicine. I pretty much feel the same and managed to take care of all my kids without drs or medicine. Three of them are adults now.

One thing I would suggest is Traditional Chinese medicine. The approach to the body is so much more wholistic. All of the symptoms your son has would be the keys to how the TCM dr. would treat him. Even symptoms which appear unrelated, in Chinese medicine are connected. All of my kids at one time or another have been to my acupuncturist and been treated with both acupuncture and herbs. It is a very reliable healing modality with a thousand years behind it! Hope this helps. Lisa

General Feedback

Posted by Kathy (Ontario, Ca) on 11/29/2012

I always gave my neice vinegar tea as we called it.... This is what I did. I made a cup of hot tea like lipton. I added 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar, 1/8 tsp baking soda and sugar to taste. It settled her stomach in no time and she was 7 when I started giving it to her. I usually take it when my stomach hurts or I've eaten too much but I use room temp water. (and no tea bag)

General Feedback

Posted by Debra (Brisbane, Australia) on 11/29/2012

He may have a bacterial overgrowth so probiotics would be good, or low stomach acid; hcl would be good &/or digestive enzymes. They all help me. I could hardly eat anything. Apple Cider Vinegar would help, it might be a nasty taste for kids, 1 tb before meal.

General Feedback

Posted by Anon (Anon) on 11/29/2012

Hi, Have you tried food combining? Eating carb with veg or protein and veg but not protein and carb at the same meal? Just a thought, best wishes.

General Feedback

Posted by Sara (Toronto, Ontario) on 11/29/2012

Hi, I have an eight year old son, who for the last two months has been complaining of nausea, headache and stomach, especially after eating a meal, which usually kicks in about 2 hours after. If he's had protein, it starts about 3-4 hours later. I've taken him to the doctor, and he's given him Prevacid, which I refuse to give. I've cut out gluten and dairy, which I feel may be causing him is problem. But I cut it out two months ago, and still no improvment. He complains on occassion of burning in the stomach and chest, and shortness of breath. He has an excessive amount of gas that helps in relieving some of the nausea/stomach/headache. The doctor now is going to send to a GI specialist, which i'm pretty sure he won't be able to find anything. I have no hope in conventional medicine. I was wondering that if I give him apple cider vinegar and baking soda, how much would be appropriate for his age ( he's about 50lbs)? How long before I see an improvement? Thank you so very much for your help!

Pineapple

Posted by Anonymosaurus Rex ( Somewhere, Alone, Listening To Radiohead) on 09/03/2012
★★★★★

Here's a simple tip to help your digestion out. You can make a digestive tonic out of pineapple and thin air!

Simply get a fresh pineapple, cut it into bite-sized chunks and place them on a plate out of direct sunlight. You may want to cover them just in case.
Every day, eat a piece of pineapple (or two... Or three). It's easy as that!

After a few days if it starts tasting strange/bad or looks that way - don't eat it. Otherwise, bon appetit!

The idea behind this is that raw pineapple contains a bunch of digestive enzymes called bromelain. If you leave it out in the air, it will slowly and gently culture with wild yeasts in the air - these also contain digestive enzymes. It's not going to cure any big digestive problems, but it is gentle, simple, effective, cheap and natural.

Pineapple is also a great anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine and diuretic.

Chamomile and Espinozilla Tea

Posted by Richard (Winston-salem, Nc) on 07/01/2012
★★★★★

I´m actually in Mexico right now, enjoying the effects of a tea made from chamomille and espinozilla. I have very sensitive digestion, so our trip here was not to be looked forward to because of the endless fiestas with spicy food. We actually arrived here at midnight not having stopped to eat. Anyone with bad digestion knows not to eat after a certain time (like 6 or 7 pm). My wonderful mother-in-law had this tea waiting for me and after two glasses, I ate like a hungry pig. And then, miracle of miracles, I slept like a baby. This tea has miraculous properties of healing for the digestive system. And the master ingredient is the espinozilla. But there´s no way to obtain this herb in the states so I´ll be checking to see if they can FEDEX it from Mexico. Or if anyone else knows where to find this herb in the states, I´d be much obliged.

Onion Juice

Posted by Kasra (Tehran) on 05/10/2012
★★★★★

Onion is a great remedy for indigestion, I always hated it specially the smell which comes out from mouth after taking it. I already took it sometimes alone but it never helped me out with my indigestion issues but one time when I ate it with food I found it tremendously helpful and from that time, I've been using this stuff with my food everyday with every meal and I'm the same person nothing else worked with me.

Avoid Soybean Oil

Posted by Hippocrates (Odin, Missouri, U.s.a.) on 04/28/2012 10 posts
★★★★★

Hello all, I for years thought I had a bad/sluggish gall bladder. I even tried the oil/lemon flush. It got so bad I went and had an ultrasound done, it was perfectly clean on the screen. The ultrasound tech even said there was no small sand/sludge in there. So I then had nuclear dye shot into me and then something to make my gall bladder pump, they said it was working normally. So I then soon after had an endoscope, small hiatal hernia, but nothing else.

So I got noticing, when I eat, sometimes I can eat whatever, and after an hour or a few, everything digests, but if I go to the bathroom and make myself vomit, it is PURE OIL. So I got thinking that it wasnt the food so much, but something in the oils, and that my body must not like it, an allergy. So as I experimented, I got noticing that everytime I eat something that contains SOYBEAN OIL, my body doesnt like it, will digest the food around it, but leave the oil! Any of the fast "food" meats generally have it, as does anything with a batter on it at these places, or fried (fries). So does mayonaise, salad dressings, cheese dips, and even ice cream and soda (brominated "vegetable" oil)! "Vegetable oil" is usually a code word for "soy or has soy in the blend of cheap oils we use". It is a rotation crop grown after corn, and is dirt cheap and therefore they use it as a "filler" for lots of foods!

If I stay away from soy/soybean oil (vegetable oil), my body does pretty well. ALSO, if you have a hiatal hernia, stay away from carbonated drinks! On an empty stomach, this causes me problems alone, but mixed with food, causes bloating in the stomach that pushes everything around and makes life bad.

So, if you have stomach problems, watch what you eat and look for SOY and see if there is a connection that you can avoid

P.S. On the nights when I have sushi and nothing else, my stomach does great. The only thing in it is rice, crab, avacado, and cream cheese. I think that there might be something soothing/healing in the rice, but am currently not sure what mechanism it might be. If I eat rice with a "something helper" or out at a mexican place and both have tons of soy in it, it has little effect to negate the soy. So look towards a diet with rice possibly if you dont have a problem with it. Also, cheeses and sugars can cause me indigestion, so look at these as being removed if you want to make things better.

Lemons

Posted by Old Ghost (Perth, Australia) on 02/18/2012
★★★★★

A year ago I bled a fair bit from my back end. Six months later it happened again so I went to a medico who urged me to get a colonoscopy. Before then I'd begun every dawn with a leak followed by eating a quarter lemon washed down with 300/500 ml of water & going back to bed for a couple of hours. Likewise doing the same every night at bedtime on a near empty stomach. Had the colonoscopy. Result? Bleeding piles. A written prognosis from the surgeon was for me to come back in ten years - when I'm 78, such was mint condition of my lower canal. Lemons - they keep things clean.

General Feedback

Posted by Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 10/28/2011

Hi Lilly, Carom seeds (caraway) are usually chewed and swallowed with water after a meal to help relieve indigestion, particularly after a heavy/rich meal, as it helps relieve excess acidity and it is also good for flatulence. As you have reduced stomach acid and not excess I would not use carom seeds in therapeutic doses for your problem at this stage.

Fennel seeds are also usually chewed after a meal to aid digestion. I have only seen that they help aid digestion (and reduce gases) and have not read that it is by reducing the stomach acid so they may be of help to you.

If you can get apple cider vinegar take some in water before a meal. If you can't get it you could try another fermented vinegar (not distilled) as a few people have had success with other fermented vinegars. Although I would not use Synthetic vinegar, only because I know no one who has used it. Taking a cup of bitter herbal tea made from one or more bitter herbs (like dandelion) 30 mins before a meal can also help. The juice of one whole lemon in warm water first thing in the morning is great for the liver. If you choose to use Iodine (as Debbie suggested and I also have read that it can be a cause) and ACV then start with low doses of them such as one drop of lugols iodine a day a only 1 teaspoon of vinegar in some water.

Have a good read of others experience here https://www.earthclinic.com/cures/digestion.html#GF_65996 Personally I improved the health my liver and took ginger capsules with each meal and ended up being able to finally digest my food, currently I'm taking iodine and ACV. All the best.

General Feedback

Posted by Wildtriangle (Oxford, England) on 10/28/2011

https://www.earthclinic.com/remedies/alkalizing_formulas.html

Hope that helps :)

General Feedback

Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia ) on 10/27/2011

Lilly, you will get relief from your problem by juicing the lemon or by taking Apple Cider Vinegar in water (2 tblespns in 8 oz water. You can add lemon juice to taste.

The problem of low stomach acid is actually caused by an iodine deficiency. Iodine regulates stomach acid. If possible try to locate some iodine. You will need to take the companion nutrients with it. I have a good book I am reading at the moment by Dr. Brownstein on Iodine. The dry mouth may also be caused by an iodine deficiency.

General Feedback

Posted by Lilly (Karachi, Pakistan) on 10/27/2011

HI,

I'm searching internet for hypochlorhydia problem and often finds carom and fennel seeds usage in this concern but still not cleared in following questions:

1--Difference between both of them usage means are they both for hypochlorhdia (reduced stomach acid)?

2--When they should be used means before or after meals?

3--At some places it is written they are only for gases problem ?

4--I am using lemon wedges before meals for increasing stomach acid but I often feel so dry mouth and a burning sensation in my stomach and liver area after half an hour of meal? Is this because of gases are producing or pancreatic problem means pancrease is not flushing enough soda in my stomach to alkanise my diet? I dont have any pancrease problem.

5--Does gastritis by hypochlorhydia need same remedies as caused by exceess stomach juice?

Plz reply I'm confused.

Adequate Chewing of Food

Posted by Ashley (Buffalo, Ny) on 10/18/2011
★★★★★

VERY true! Chewing 40 times instead of the average 15 times can help aid you in weight loss by up to 12% fewer calories and absolutely does fill you up faster. Twelve may not seem like much, but when you realize this is incredibly easy and the least you could do if you're interested in losing weight, it's really a shame if you don't!

General Feedback

Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia) on 07/07/2011

Robyn you could try some digestive enzymes and probiotics to help digest your food. Also drink ACV or lemon juice to build up your stomach acid to help digest the food.

General Feedback

Posted by Robyn (Melbourne, Australia) on 07/06/2011

I tried to look up how long it takes to digest your food and the answer was 24 hrs, then found lots of answers from 1 hr to 24. How long does it take for your stomach to break down food - not the complete digestion process? After accidentally swallowing a heaped tb of borax - thought it was my vitamin powder - thats how groggy and staggering around in pain I am still by lunchtime - it made me vomit but up came what Id eaten for breakfast - a little meat & veg. I was surprised to find in exactly the same size & condition I ate them in 3 hrs before. I do have bad digestion but shouldn't they be broken down in 3 hrs. Could this be the cause of some of my pain?

General Feedback

Posted by Laura (Sparks, Nv) on 04/08/2011

H C L Hydrocloric Acid. Years ago I was having severe acid reflux. Not wanting to support pharma meds I consulted with my local health store. He knew exactly how to deal with it. He explaned... As we age we don't produce enough acid in our stomach. He said I needed more acid, not less! When we eat, if there is not enough acid in our stomach to digest the food, then our body tries to catch up when we eat and produces more acid on top of our food, which is too late and on the wrong end of the process. This causes the burning and other issues. He assured me that taking acid would work. He was so sure he went to the shelf and opened a bottle of HCL and gave me a hand full. He said "take one before a meal. You will know when you have had enough when you feel the acid building back up. Then back off taking them. Then come back and buy the bottle from me! "

He was right! It did work. I did go back and buy the bottle. Now I only take them occaisionally when I get indigestion, or don't seem to digest my food, it seems to sit in my stomach. I carry them with me. When I have the symtoms, I know what to do.

I often wonder(and sometimes it is confirmed) if pharma meds use the natural remedy disguised in their fancy packaging and big names.

General Feedback

Posted by Trudy (Harbor Springs, Michigan, Usa) on 04/07/2011

Jessie. You may need to investigate whether you are producing too much stomach acid or possibly NOT ENOUGH. I too thought that I was producing too much until I came across an article that pointed out very similar symptoms of not producing enough stomach acid, in which case the ACV and baking soda don't help much or only temporarily. If this is the case you need Betaine HCI, or digestive enzymes to stimulate your body to digest properly and maintain healthy digestive flora.

General Feedback

Posted by Pamm (Alabastera, Alabama) on 02/24/2011

I have had this problem in the past and you need to discontinue the apple cider vinegar. I ended up with gastritis because of the ACV. Sounds like you produce too much hydrochloric acid in your stomach therefore ACV is not for you. You can still take Baking Soda to akaline your body just without the ACV. To get rid of that acid feel drink Ginger tea it makes my tummy feel alot better. I am now on Prilosec to rid my body of excess acid & it works. I am trying to find different home remedies to reduce my stomach acid and as of yet have not found any. Good Luck

General Feedback

Posted by Michelle (Cambridge, Cambs / Uk) on 02/06/2011

You are using too much Bicarbonate of soda, and drinking too much at once. Try a little less BoS until you find the level you can tolerate, and sip over a period of hours, not gulping all at once! Good luck, these adjustments worked for me.

General Feedback

Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 02/06/2011

try baking soda without the acv.

General Feedback

Posted by Jessie (Springfield, Il) on 02/05/2011

To anyone-
My problems started about two weeks ago. Everytime I eat, drink, or even on an empty stomach, my stomach or digestive tract makes the loudest weirdest noises. I also tend to get really gassy after I do eat. I eat really well, juicing in the morning, raw fruits and veggies through the day. I'm not perfect. I do eat bad things at times also, but overall, I'm a healthy eater.

After all this started I began a regimen of ACV and baking soda (Ted's remedy) and after I drink it my stomach feels acid-like (not much relief). Should I stop the ACV? I have been taking probiotics. I don't know what to do as this problem is VERY embarrassing, especially since I am in college and my stomach is having a party in the middle of all my classes. Please help?! ?

Aloe Vera

Posted by Connie (Slc, Ut) on 01/17/2011

Hello Lak; It seems possible that you have a situation that many of us may have, myself included. The stomach lining is troubled, and the stomach acid is low. For 3 months now, I have been adding the equivalent of a box of "knox" gelatin to my soup once daily. I was greatly encouraged by reading Ken's post that he had healed his knee damage with this practice, but that it took 1 year. I am having good results as of now, but I will continue to have gelatin daily for as many months as it takes to heal my small hiatal hernia.

Gelatin is not a complete protein, but it is high in proline and glycine, from which we form collagen that strengthens our tissues. If anyone objects to the animal nature of gelatin, they could try an amino acid supplement, and possibly add extra proline and glycine to it. Some supplements are bound with HCL, so care must be taken along with them. Foods and herbs with mucilage are also soothing to the stomach. Marshmallow root, Slippery Elm, and fresh Aloe Vera leaves are my favorites. Maybe this can help. Connie

Aloe Vera

Posted by Lak (North Brunswick, Nj) on 01/15/2011

Hi Mel,

Thank you for your reply. My gastro tested during 2008 and 2009 and did not find anything in the biopsy. But this time, I have to test yet for H-Pylori through stool test. I hope something helps me with my issues. Lemon juice helps me to some extent.

Thanks,

Lak.

Aloe Vera

Posted by Mel (Kobe, Japan) on 01/15/2011

To lak : I would recommend being tested for and researching helicobacter pylori. I have the same symptoms, and can relate especially to feeling full and bloated, for something as simple as a glass of water. One helpful site (other than earth clinic) is amyking.wordpress.com/2009/02/20/im-so-happy-i-have-h-pylori good luck

Aloe Vera

Posted by Connie (Slc, Ut) on 01/14/2011
★★★★★

Hello Lak; Aloe Vera is very soothing and helpful for inflammations and lesions. It provides mucilage, salicylic acid, saponins(soap-like antiseptics), vitamins and minerals. In raw fresh form, it also provides enzymes that aid digestion. Any substance taken in too high amounts for too long can produce side effects and toxicity. When there is a high need for one substance that does not allay the problems; it means that it is time for another approach. The symptoms you describe could be from several combined causes. The food sits in the stomach undigested too long, and becomes irritating to the lining, enzymes are not being secreted to break up fats, and bile is not flowing properly to help metabolize fats.

I suggest B-complex, sublingual methylcobalamin(B-12), for production of stomach acid and enzymes. Digestive enzymes, such as pancreatin, contain lipase for breaking up fats. Foods such as beets and artichokes help thin bile. Herbs such as turmeric, dandelion, milk thistle also help. The herbal combination, Triphala is a mild laxative that is liver/gallbladder stimulative.

Your symptoms could indicate gallstones:check the ailments section here for gallstones and consider magnesium supplementation as well as a liver/gallbladder flush. Scroll down the page in the gallstone section to where Tom from SK has posted some links to sites that have specific directions for this. I recently tried Hulda Clark's method with powerful results; but I caution that the amounts of Epsom Salts suggested may need to be lowered for some people, because of their size, (if smaller), conditions of kidney or disturbed electrolytes, or low blood sugar. Otherwise, It brought me great relief from many "stones" that resembled clumps of a very saturated fat in nature. I hope this helps you feel better, Connie

Aloe Vera

Posted by Lak (North Brunswick, Nj) on 01/13/2011
★★★★★

I have bloating, gas and indigestion and little bit of acidity For the past 4 months on and off. The moment I take first bite of food it makes me bloat. In the night it makes me stuck in the chest and unable to burp. Stomach issues started from 2008 but never this bad.

I have tried Extra virgin organic coconut oil and it made by bloating worse. I had to quit taking it. I have found relief from fresh Aloe vera. ACV does not suit me because it gives me burning sensation in the stomach. I dont have any ulcer and my endoscopy, colonoscopy came normal in 2009. But endoscopy in 2008 revealed a little bit of inflammation in the stomach and tried aciphex and lot of medications for short time. Recent blood work for celiac antibodies is also negative. I am also trying lime juice 2 times before meals in water which helps with the bloating by relieving lot of gas. But in the early morning stomach churns and gets burning in the rib cage. Nothing is helping except the aloe vera.

My question is on taking Aloe vera continuosly. Is it safe to take for long period time considering the mayo clinic warning

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aloe-vera/NS_patient-aloe/DSECTION=safety.

I request someone to kindly reply to this because aloe is the only one which gives me relief from My problem.

Thanks.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Maryleigh (Sarasota, Florida, Usa) on 06/03/2010

This message is for Carolyn from Hobbs NM.

Carolyn, I have had a problem with malabsorption following a bad case of systemic Candida. I lost 25 pounds that I didn't need to lose and have not been able to put the weight back on; that was 5 years ago. I have tried (and am trying) everything.

Not knowing the details of your plight (beyond the fact that you had your gall bladder removed), I wonder if you, too, had an underweight problem.

In any event, thank you so much for sharing and if you feel comfortable doing so, I would really appreciate hearing from you: [email protected]

Dietary Suggestions

Posted by Kim (Suwanee, Ga) on 03/26/2010

The Betaine HCL has been a terrific addition to my doctor prescribed enzymes. I've had malabsorption issues for years with an exhausting list of symptoms. The first thing I noticed the most was the weight loss. I lost a pant size just from eliminating water weight. The swelling in my hands, feet and face are reduced. My digestion is more "normal". I've followed most of the above suggestions but feel the HCL was an important addition. It was irritating to hear from doctors that I should "stay away from cheesecake" and to purchase a costly gym membership. Can't wait to see my new doctor's face when I walk in 2 sizes smaller, (yes, the pants are already loose), and hopefully other less obvious health improvements, i.e. lower cholesterol and better iron levels.

Do want to caution anyone taking this to proceed slowly with this supplement. It's not by any means a weight loss supplement. If I hadn't been eating well and exercising, I doubt it would have done much more than give me heartburn. :)

I've posted this question elsewhere on the site, but wanted to ask again: Would taking the Betaine HCL and the apple cider vinegar cancel each other out? Is it a bad idea or just overkill? I've read about the benefits of ACV but don't want to undo the results I've already achieved.

Thanks!

Brewer's Yeast, Blackstrap Molasses

Posted by Matt (Millbrook, Ny) on 02/07/2010

Many people, myself including, have reported adverse effects after drinking wine. Most commonly I hear from others is headaches. I have heard that sulphites, present in most, if not all wines, are likely responsible. What I really think might to blame though is Molybdenum deficiency. I found this page helpful:

http://www.mybodylanguage.co.uk/redwine.htm

It says on that page "that if your copper level is too high this can drive molybdenum levels down."

I assume that most of us in the U.S. are using copper pipes in our plumbing for our drinking water, so perhaps it's possible that contributes toward a Molybdenum deficiency?

Brewer's Yeast, Blackstrap Molasses

Posted by Shelley (Ft Collins, Colorado) on 02/07/2010

I have a problem consuming alcohol all together. If I drink more than a couple of beers I am sick to my stomach. I was told to try a mixture of 2T of brewer's yeast and 2T of blackstrap molasses in a shot of water everyday to balance out the bacteria in my digestive track and it works.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Carolyn (Hobbs, Nm Usa) on 01/17/2010

Update from Carolyn with product names.

1. Intestinew by Renew Life.
2. Any brand of Vitamin E(400 IU) per day.
3. Vitamin C, Nutriobiotic is best, get buffered.
4. Digestive enzymes by Enzymedica, one before each meal.
5.GSE by Nutriobiotic, 5 to 12 drops morning and night.
6.Fish oil, any kind. Take at night before dinner.
7. Make and drink a green smoothie and drink for breakfast. In it I put 1 banana, 1 apple, greens (usually the dark green greens) 1 rounded T. chia seeds(these are so important because they keep things moving through you and have 8 times more omega 3s than fish oil), and I rounded T. brown rice protein powder.
8. I take2 Michael James mineral capsules each day.
9 I take 2 Michael James potassium capsules each day.
10. I changed my diet to a whold foods diet. No meat but fish occasionally, maybe once a week. I roast my veggies in the oven, eat lots of potatoes, and brown rice.

The above protocol has changed my life.

I order all of my products on line. Vitacost is a great place to shop and you save tons of money. I know this is a lot of supplements to take but I'm telling you I don't think I would be alive today without each of them and now I feel good and I am living life again. God Bless and God Bless Earth Clinic.

Carolyn

P.S. I bought fresh, large aloe leaves in Lubbock at a United Store over there. That fresh aloe has really helped. It kills out h. pylori, mold, etc. I cut 1 inch off, skin it, put the gel in a blender with 1 c. water and 1 T. concentrated pomegranate juice from the health food store to help kill the bitterness. I can't tell you how much that fresh aloe has helped me. Soooo much better than the bottled.

EC: Thanks, Carolyn!

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Carolyn (Hobbs, Nm Usa) on 01/16/2010
★★★★★

Digestive issues

I have had severe digestive problems for almost 10 years since they took out my gallbladder. I have been to gastroenterologists every where and I can tell you that the listed items have helped me more than any prescription drugs. I feel better than I have in 10 years and I learned what I am telling you from a dear friend I met right here on Earth clinic.

1. Take 1 scoop of Intestinew by Renewlife morning and night.
2.Take vitaims E, C, D3
3. Drink fresh aloe vera twice a day.
4. GSE morning and night.
5. Probiotics
6. Fish oil
7. Chia seeds in a green smoothie every morning. Also add brown rice protein powder.
8. Take a good mineral supplement.
9. Eat a whole foods diet.

The above protocol has changed my life.

EC: Carolyn, we are so happy to hear this - yahoo!! Can you send us more info about the products you are using?

To all: Carolyn has been posting on EC for the past couple of years about her digestive issues, so we are thrilled she finally found remedies to help!

Adequate Chewing of Food

Posted by Matt (Millbrook, Ny) on 12/28/2009
★★★★★

Adequate Chewing of Food

During a battle with candidiasis, I learned just how important it is to REALLY chew up your food.

"Human saliva is composed of 98% water, while the other 2% consists of other compounds such as electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial compounds, and various enzymes." - Wikipedia

Digestion begins in the mouth. This is very important. Since I put proper chewing into practice, I found that I eat much less, and that I've become more lean and have more energy! Also my stomach is flatter, either from eating less, or from not being blocked up anymore. It's a very simple practice that everyone can improve upon. If you think you already chew enough, chew more! Perhaps this could have it's own remedy page...?

Milk Thistle

Posted by Preet (New York, USA) on 09/16/2009

Hi, Could you tell us the name of the product? Thanks, Gagan

EC: Looks like it is a Solary product called: Liver (Blend Sp-13).

Milk Thistle

Posted by Kathie (Chicago, Il, Usa) on 09/15/2009
★★★★★

I've had digestive problems for at least a couple of years now, abdominal bloating and gas with diarrhea and constipation. I've been taking a popular on-line fiber supplement for almost a year and that has helped the constipation problem tremendously, but my system was still having difficulty with rumbling/gas/pain with diarrhea at least every other day if not daily. About three weeks ago I began taking a milk thistle supplement simply because I suspected my liver could use the support (no liver specific ailments going on, but family history and age, etc.). Lo and behold, within two days of beginning it, my entire GI tract calmed down beautifully - I am truly amazed. I would say it's 95% or more back to normal, with one or two well-formed bowel movements daily with no straining (that's incredible in itself) *without* taking the fiber supplement, and no gas/pain/diarrhea. The milk thistle supplement contains dandelion root, milk thistle seed, burdock, artichoke, kelp, and peppermint, with a "homeopathically prepared mineral formula designed to work with the herbs" made of potassium chloride 3x and sodium sulphate 3x (I'm including everything because I'm not sure if it's the milk thistle alone that's helping, another ingredient in the mix, or the entire mix combined). This has been a wonderful surprise for me - how great to have a GI tract functioning like it's supposed to! I really hope this helps someone else out there!!

Dietary Suggestions

Posted by Gabrielle (Pottsville, PA) on 06/11/2009

RE: Robin's post... people with diverticular disease should NOT use the tea which comes with ___ program as it has Senna in it and is not safe. I know this because I've used it and wound up in the hospital with peritonitis! Also, most fruit is exactly what we DO need for healthy digestion/colons - the majority IS alkalizing.

Onion Juice

Posted by Gabriela (Pahoa, HI) on 05/06/2009
★★★★★

I have battled with weak digestion for a number of years now and having read about onion juice therapy for cancer, I decided to try it for my indigestion. I have already a high regard for the medicinal value of pungent onions as it cured my cold and bronchitis in the past. I know onion makes you alkaline, therefore treating one of the causes of illness (acidity). So when starting my onion juice treatment, I also recognized that pure onion juice makes me to see instantly what is happening in my body ( like a mirror almost) and getting rid of it right away. I drank the juice one sip at a time in the morning on an empty stomach and threw up undigested food. I was astonished that I would have undigested food still inside of me after a whole night's sleep. Now I don't eat too late anymore (I try not to eat after 6 pm, only fruit juice) as a result. I eat in more and much smaller portions during the day. I also don't mix carbohydrates with proteins as to make it easier to digest (vegetables with proteins or vegetables with carbohydrates). Together with ACV and molasses which I have learnt here to add to my food and which are definitely wonderful on a daily basis all is pretty good right now. I know it sounds pretty awful to drink pure onion juice but for me it's the fast track to health. I learnt that you use it for 40 days once a year for prevention of cancer and now I use it whenever I have any health problem. I am really happy for this site and hope this may help somebody in need. And what cheaper thing is there than an onion? Available in most parts of the world. Only the juicer might be a problem if one has none.

Dietary Suggestions

Posted by Robin (Near Toledo, Ohio) on 04/14/2009

Organic raw milk is a super food, but pasteurization and homogenization destroy all the health benefits of the nutrients found in it and kill the enzymes our bodies need to digest it along with the things added after the fact, plus the pus that is found in much of it due to the new farming procedures which are allowed, therefore making milk an inferior, chemically, man made product now found at the grocers. As it it now, it is an acidic food, not sure about the raw milk. Not to mention that man is the only animal found on the planet that drinks another mammals infant milk after weaning, an unnatural practice.

Apple cider vinegar is acidic going in which will trigger the stomach sphincter to close, eliminating the burning and indigestion from backing up the esophagus making it a good choice if too little acid is the case. As the body processed the ACV, there is some disagreement on whether it turns into an alkalizing substance for the body like lemon/lime juice, or remains acidic in the body until it is eliminated. I've read it both ways in my research.

General Feedback

Posted by Robin (Near Toledo, Ohio) on 04/14/2009

The process of digestion starts in the mouth with chewing and saliva and ends at the anus in a bowel movement. It is the process of breaking down and digesting foods in the gastrointestinal track so that the body can extract nutrients from the food matter to fuel the body and all of its functions and eliminate the waste which is not needed.

Heartburn, indigestion, gastritis, over acidity, acid reflux, under acidity, IBS, constipation, diarrhea, leaky gut, polyps, diverticulitis, colon cancer, Crones disease, among others are symptoms and aliments of the GI or digestive track.