How to Use Naturopathy to Treat Digestive Problems

It makes sense to treat digestive problems at the source--diet, environment and state of mind. These factors contribute to the health of your immune system and digestive tract. Digestion is how the body transports food energy to the cells. Naturopathy, a health science that focuses on natural, limited-drug care, aims to gently and effectively treat breakdowns in the digestive process that result in symptoms such as heartburn and diarrhea.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Access to a naturopathic practitioner
• Reliable literature on naturopathic self-care

Know Digestive Health Threats

1. Learn how allergies or toxins can contribute to digestive-tract disorders, resulting in obesity, skin problems or more advanced illness, such as ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome. Find information on natural treatment via The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (see Resources below).
2. Seek the cause of your symptoms for prevention and early treatment. See a naturopathic practitioner or use the American Gastroenterology Association Web site (see Resources below) to find out which issues regarding digestive health may apply to you.

Use Naturopathy for Treatment and Prevention

3. Ask a practitioner how naturopathy can incorporate nutrition and lifestyle improvements to treat digestive symptoms. Expect analysis of your diet plus your work, play and sleep habits.
4. Get a professional diagnosis and follow your practitioner's advice to combat allergies, bacteria or nutrition deficiencies. Expect to alter your diet and take moderately priced herbs or supplements geared toward your individual symptoms.
5. Cut stress and reduce toxins to restore normal digestive function. Consult books or periodicals (see Resources below) and find out how to use hydrotherapy (hot baths or colonic treatments), dietary supplements like acidophilus, and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and massage.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay healthy by eating more raw fruits and vegetables.
• Eat whole grains, such as wheat breads or brown rice, instead of white breads or rice.
• Keep your digestive enzyme level high by adding papaya, pineapple or sprouts to your diet.
• Consult your doctor about changes to your diet.
• If you experience sharp intestinal or heartburn-type pains, visit a doctor or hospital emergency room.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.