Intestinal Problems: Common Causes and Natural Medicine Solutions

For gastrointestinal complaints, diagnostic methods often fail to reveal the true cause. As a result, the underlying cause frequently remains untreated and unhealed. Individuals with such intestinal problems often have to settle for treating symptoms. If conventional medicine hasn't provided relief, we'd like to present potential solutions from natural medicine. You might discover an approach that brings you much-needed relief.

Intestinal Problems: Often, the Cause Remains Unclear

Patients seeking medical help for intestinal issues often do not receive a satisfactory diagnosis. Frequently, one of the following conditions is identified or considered likely:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Manifests as frequent lower abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. Numerous other symptoms are possible. The detailed causes of the condition remain unclear, and there is no cure.
• Functional Dyspepsia: Also known as upset stomach. It's a disorder of the upper digestive tract causing recurring pain and other discomforts in the upper abdomen. The cause is unclear, with no structural changes present.
• Functional Constipation: Chronic constipation with no apparent organic cause. The function of the colon is impaired without a detectable cause that can be treated.
• Functional Diarrhea: Diarrhea without any detectable organic cause, essentially the opposite of functional constipation.
• Irritable Bladder: Frequent urge to urinate and potentially incontinence with no apparent organic cause.
• Functional Abdominal Pain in Children: Children often experience abdominal pain without any apparent cause. 

If you suspect you suffer from one of these conditions, please consult a doctor. Your doctor needs to establish that there is indeed no organic cause for your symptoms. If you're fortunate, the doctor identifies a cause that can be treated. Alternatively, your doctor will help you manage the symptoms as effectively as possible. 

Using Natural Medicine to Address Intestinal Issues

Conventional treatment methods can and should be discussed with your doctor. If you frequently experience nausea, your doctor may prescribe antiemetics to effectively manage your nausea. However, individuals with intestinal issues often prefer not to take chemical medications every day, which is why they turn to well-tolerated and natural remedies. Here, we introduce typical forms of natural medicine treatments.

It is important to note that the following suggestions lack a scientific basis. They are often used due to their traditional usage over several decades without harmful effects. However, there is no medical evidence of their effectiveness.

The following are some of the methods and approaches that natural medicine employs for gastrointestinal issues:

• Herbs and Plants: Certain medicinal plants might help soothe your digestive system or alleviate inflammation. Phytotherapists recommend chamomile to address inflammation and discomfort in digestion. Fennel, anise, and caraway and peppermint are additional herbs that could help as teas or supplements.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms often taken in the form of capsules, intended to settle in your gut flora. These could help if an imbalance in your gut flora triggers symptoms like intestinal issues. Kimchi, kefir, yogurt, and sauerkraut naturally contain probiotics. 
• Prebiotics: Not to be confused with probiotics, prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that can be metabolized by gut flora. This could help nourish gut-friendly bacteria, aiding their growth. Prebiotics are found in garlic, onions, and artichokes.
• Dietary Fiber: Dietary fiber consists of undigestible carbohydrates. They contribute to gut health by reducing constipation and stimulating bowel movement. Higher amounts of dietary fiber can be found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts.
• Hydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to hardened stool or hinder digestion. Increasing water consumption can help alleviate such issues. 
• Relaxation Techniques: In the past, stomach ulcers were often attributed to stress. Relaxation methods such as yoga, meditation, or maintaining a stress-free lifestyle can be helpful.
• Gentle Movement: Engaging in some light exercise can benefit your digestive system. A gentle walk can be sufficient.

The Intestinal Microbiota as a Vulnerability

Numerous approaches in naturopathy attribute disturbed intestinal microbiota as responsible for the symptoms. It has been shown that harmful bacteria in the gut can trigger symptoms due to their metabolites being detrimental to our gut health. A disrupted intestinal microbiota could have implications on the psyche, influencing bacteria that may affect our cravings for certain foods. While conclusive evidence is still lacking, the possibility is intriguing.

Intestinal Problems: Frequently Asked Questions

What to Do for Gastrointestinal Issues?

First, consult a doctor. They will review the usual diagnostic methods with you and determine whether an organic basis is evident for your symptoms. As numerous causes can lead to gastrointestinal upset or stomach pain, diagnosis can often be quite time-consuming.

Typically, blood tests, ultrasounds, and an endoscopy are conducted. If your doctor doesn't find an organic basis, they will discuss this with you. In such cases, conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or functional dyspepsia could be considered, and treatment options will be discussed.

What Helps with Intestinal Issues?

Mainstream medicine offers various remedies. Special medications exist for heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, and numerous other symptoms that can accompany intestinal issues. However, many individuals prefer not to rely on chemical pharmaceuticals every day, which is why they turn to naturopathy. This approach can be beneficial if the condition does not have an organic cause. If a cause has been identified, it should be appropriately treated.

Intestinal Problems: What to Do?

Consult a doctor! They will address diagnosis and treatment options. You can discuss the possibility of naturopathic approaches with your doctor. Initially, it's important to rule out or manage an organic condition.