The arrival of spring can seem to bring on an increase in digestion-related disorders, such as acid reflux, IBS and peptic ulcer disease. The change in seasons can cause an increase in the acids produced by the stomach walls and activates the formation of the hormone cortisol. Both of which, stimulate digestive disorders. With 80% of our body’s immunity situated in the intestinal mucosa, aligning our intestinal lining is essential to digestive balance and fighting spring allergies.
We can take proactive measures to help our digestive system ease into spring.
Start with your Nutrition-Try to reduce your consumption of animal-derived fats such as butter, eggs, dairy and fat meats. Also be careful of the over consumption of spicy foods, fried foods, refined sugar, and ready meals (rich in salt and preservatives). These things may irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach, making it sensitive to gastric acids. Boost consumption of lightly cooked spring veggies to support the liver’s function and increase fiber availability. Fiber helps to move cellular and digestive byproducts out of the body and feeds beneficial gut flora.
Herbs for Seasonal Transitions-
Chamomile: provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory response, as well as relieving stomach cramps
Fennel: relaxes the muscles of digestion, relieves bloating, settles stomach pain, stimulates appetite.
Ginger: great for indigestion, nausea, gas, excellent for gastrointestinal infections.
Marshmallow root: protects and soothes the lining of the digestive system, soothe ulcers and gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Calendula- has anti-inflammatory, vulnerary (wound-healing), antiseptic, anti-fungal, astringent and cholagogue (stimulating the flow of bile) actions that may help her ability to support the internal 'skin' of our gut lining.
Move Your Body- Daily exercise is important for maintaining balance in the body. Exercise stokes the digestive fire and stimulates all of the body channels, preventing or eliminating stagnation and blockages. Deep stretches, yoga, walking, hiking, dancing and Pilates have all been shown to support a healthy digestive system.
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