Why Do Integrative Doctors Aways Stress Digestion?

    Poor digestion can be the root cause of many chronic ailments.

    The gastrointestinal tract plays a crucial role throughout the body, so correcting digestive issues is key to health and vitality. Dr. Frank Lipman answers some important questions.

    Digestive problems are the most common disorders I see in my practice. Many patients with symptoms like fatigue, allergies, or arthritis unknowingly have digestive issues. They often assume mild indigestion, bloating, or gas is a normal part of ageing.

    A well-functioning digestive system energises you, supports immunity, and prevents disease. Many patients spend significant amounts on supplements without realising poor digestion can block nutrient absorption. According to Chinese medicine, digestive health, or the ‘earth element,' is central to well-being. When digestion is off-balance, the entire system is affected.

    The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is nine metres long and has a surface area equivalent to a doubles tennis court. Like the skin, it acts as a barrier between the body and external substances. If the intestinal lining is damaged, toxins and food particles can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic problems.

    The GI tract also plays a major role in immunity, detoxification, and sensory function. It is the largest immune organ in the body and contains neurotransmitters identical to those found in the brain, contributing to the ‘gut feeling' phenomenon.

    Beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics, play a critical role in maintaining digestive health. Common probiotics include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Since probiotics do not permanently colonise the gut, regular consumption through food or supplements is essential. Look for supplements with delivery systems that protect bacteria from stomach acid, ensuring they reach the intestines.

    Fibre promotes bowel regularity, supports immunity, and benefits cardiovascular health. Unfortunately, most people consume only half the recommended amount. Palatable fibre supplements are now available, such as powders and chewable tablets, offering an easy way to increase intake.

    Inolax Forte

    Q: HOW DO ENZYMES AFFECT DIGESTION?

    Answer: Enzymes are essential for breaking food into simpler components for energy. They are found in digestive juices and are necessary to absorb nutrients from food.

    TEN TIPS TO IMPROVE DIGESTION

    • Chew your food well.
    • Sit down and relax while you eat.
    • Avoid eating in a rush or under stress.
    • Make eating a mindful experience.
    • Choose natural, whole, unprocessed foods.
    • Eat until 80% full and avoid overeating.
    • Opt for organic and local foods when possible.
    • Rest your digestive system for 10 hours overnight.
    • Try elimination diets to remove processed foods, sugar, and allergens periodically.
    • Eat bitter foods like arugula or dandelion root before meals to stimulate digestion.
    • Take probiotics to support a healthy gut.

    The three primary enzymes involved in digestion are:

    • Amylase: Begins carbohydrate digestion in the mouth.
    • Protease: Breaks proteins into amino acids in the stomach.
    • Lipase: Assists in breaking down fats in the small intestine and absorbs fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

    Other enzymes such as sucrase, lactase, and maltase break down sugars for energy production.

    Q: DO YOU RECOMMEND BUTYRATE?

    Yes,  butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced in the gut during the fermentation of plant fibers by beneficial bacteria. Butyrate is essential for maintaining the health of the gut lining, supporting immune function, and preventing systemic inflammation. It plays a vital role in energy production for gut cells, regulates inflammatory responses, and has been linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer, metabolic diseases, and cognitive decline.

    Additionally, butyrate is involved in the gut-brain axis, meaning it not only supports gut health but may also positively affect mental well-being, including mood, memory, and neurological function. Ensure a fiber-rich diet with diverse prebiotic foods, such as leafy greens, legumes, and resistant starches like green bananas and plantains. Be careful with gut-disrupting factors such as antibiotics, sugar, and processed foods, which can inhibit the production of beneficial compounds like butyrate.

    Butyrate October 24

    Q: CAN YOGA IMPROVE DIGESTION?

    Yoga can complement dietary and lifestyle changes, improving digestion and reducing gastrointestinal complaints over time. One helpful pose is the Supported Bridge Pose. Follow these steps to try it:

    1. Place a yoga bolster (or a folded blanket) perpendicular to a wall, with one end about 1.5 metres from the wall.
    2. Sit on the bolster, facing the wall, and lie back until your shoulders rest lightly on the floor.
    3. Adjust the bolster or your position until your feet firmly contact the wall.
    4. Close your eyes and relax in this pose for 5 to 10 minutes.

    This restorative posture rejuvenates the entire system, including digestion, and promotes relaxation and healing.

    Editor's note: In another article Dr Jason Malia answers questions on how to Detox your Digestive System. Please also read these articles Ten Healing Foods To Buy Organic and Food as Medicine.

    Why do integrative doctors always stress digestion?

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