Digestion refers to breaking down food materials into nutrients that will be absorbed into the blood and then utilized by the cells. These nutrients provide energy to the body to carry out various life-sustaining functions. However, various factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, poor eating patterns, age, certain prescription treatment options, and illnesses can affect digestion and one’s overall well-being. Thus, it is important to know the various common digestive issues and their remedies.

Types of digestive problems
One’s gut, when in its healthy form, will function harmoniously. However, everyone experiences indigestion problems from time to time, which can be mild to severe. Some common digestive problems are listed below:

• GERD
  Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive problem that occurs due to excessive esophageal exposure to acidic foods like peppermint, citrus fruits, chocolates, and coffee.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  The large intestine is impacted by this chronic illness known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which occurs as cramps, gas, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation.
• Ulcerative colitis
  Inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum are brought on by the inflammatory bowel disease known as ulcerative colitis, which results in stomach pain, diarrhea, and bleeding.
• Crohn’s disease
  A further form of inflammatory bowel illness called Crohn’s disease can impact any portion of the digestive system and lead to lethargy, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Constipation
  Constipation is another digestive problem that refers to the passage of infrequent and hard stools. It occurs due to hormonal imbalance, unhealthy meal plans, and even colon cancer.
• Celiac disease
  Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that develops when the body reacts improperly to the protein gluten, which is present in wheat, barley, and rye. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating are its common symptoms.
• Gallstones
  Solid deposits that develop in the gallbladder are called gallstones and cause upper right abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Pancreatitis
  It is an inflammation of the pancreas that can result in fever, nausea, vomiting, and excruciating abdominal discomfort.
• Diarrhea
  Diarrhea is a digestive problem with frequent, loose, watery stools. It happens due to infection and motility disorders.
• Flatulence
  Formation of gas typically happens due to meals including dairy products, sugary goods, legumes, fatty foods, carbonated drinks, and certain vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, onions, radishes, cabbage, cucumber, potatoes.
• Food intolerance
  Food intolerance results when one’s digestive system finds it hard to digest certain food items. For instance, people who are lactose intolerant shouldn’t consume dairy products like milk, as it will affect digestion.

Home remedies for digestive problems
Several people worldwide experience certain digestive issues. However, understanding the condition and trying some home remedies for digestion-related issues would be the best approach.

• Ginger tea
  Ginger promotes healthy digestion and cures digestive problems and nausea. The antioxidants in ginger help reduce inflammation and irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. One can make warm ginger tea with honey or lemon to soothe indigestion.
• Fennel seeds
  Fennel seeds contain elements such as fenchone and estragole that prevent flatulence in the intestinal tract. They promote smooth digestion, relax the intestines, and cure acidity. One can drink warm water mixed with fennel seeds to ease nausea, cramps, and bloating.
• Peppermint tea
  Peppermint oil improves the digestion process. Boil some peppermint leaves with water and sip the warm tea after meals to relieve indigestion problems like nausea.
• Gooseberry
  Gooseberry is high in fiber content and aids in regulating healthy bowel movements. It reduces constipation and increases the secretion of gastric juices. It also has anti-inflammatory and laxative properties to enhance digestion while improving the absorption of nutrients.
• Cinnamon tea
  Cinnamon tea can help reduce flatulence, bloating, and abdominal cramps. It also relieves heartburn or irritation in the stomach as it has antioxidants such as eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and linalool that stimulate digestion problems.

Tips to improve digestion
Digestive problems can be prevented by incorporating certain lifestyle habits, such as:

• Chew the food properly
  Saliva, when chewing, has countless enzymes that help in healthy digestion and reduce heartburn.
• Stay hydrated
  Experts recommend drinking 2 liters of water daily to prevent constipation and eliminate toxins from the body.
• Add fiber-rich foods to meal plans
  Fiber keeps the digestive tract healthy by removing bad bacteria and toxins from the colon. One must eat fiber-rich foods like lentils, peas, fruits, and vegetables.
• Include probiotics in daily meals
  Probiotics are similar to the bacteria and yeast in the digestive tract, which are responsible for relieving the side effects of poor meal plan and stress. They help treat IBS, boost immunity, and increase nutrient absorption.
• Eat on time
  Skipping meals may lead to an abnormal digestion. Therefore, sticking to a schedule will help improve digestion process and prevent the onset of any problems.

If home remedies for digestion don’t help, one must consult a healthcare professional to identify the root cause and seek appropriate treatment. However, most digestive problems can be controlled by proper lifestyle changes. The best way to ensure healthy digestion is by following a well-balanced meal plan and exercising regularly.