The Natural Solution to Chronic Digestive Disorders with Added Health Benefits

(Remember that it is always best to consult your doctor for advice on chronic digestive problems that do not respond to changes in diet and lifestyle.)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - also known as 'spastic colon' is one of the most common chronic health disorders in the world and affects up to 20% of the population. It is a dysfunction of the bowel and large intestine, causing lower abdominal pain, cramping, constipation and diarrhea. Causes have not been conclusively identified, but are thought to involve problems in communication between the bowel and the brain.

Crohn's Disease - is one of the Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. It causes inflammation in the digestive tract (usually the small intestine), resulting in chronic pain and diarrhea. There may also be rectal bleeding, weightloss and even fever. There are different theories about what causes Crohn's Disease, but many doctors believe that the immune system reacts to a virus or a bacterium, causing chronic inflammation in the intestine. Crohn's Disease tends to run in families.

Diverticulosis - is a condition in which 'pockets' or diverticula form on the wall of the colon or the large intestine, usually on the left side. This is a result of weaknesses in the bowel wall. Symptoms include left lower abdominal pain, diarrhea, cramps, changes in bowel habits or even rectal bleeding . Diverticulosis is associated with a diet high in processed foods and low in fibre and fluids. Diverticulitis occurs when there is an infection in the 'pockets' or diverticula of the intestinal wall. Diverticulosis can be effectively treated by increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake and using herbs to soothe and tone the lining of the digestive tract.

Ulcerative Colitis - is also an Inflammatory Bowel Disease and is associated with inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. People who suffer from ulcerative colitis usually alternate between periods of flare ups and remission, often influenced by stress, diet or illness. Symptoms include rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping and an urgent need to empty the bowels.

Gastritis - is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It may be caused by eating spoiled food, by bacteria, viruses, by certain chemicals, as well as by stress and lifestyle factors. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, diarrhea and cramps. Gastritis may be acute or chronic. People who suffer from chronic gastritis should investigate dietary changes, stress management and removal of alcohol, cigarettes and spices.

GERD - or Acid Reflux Disease - is a condition in which the stomach acid 'backs up' or refluxes into the oesophagus due to dysfunction of the lower oesophageal sphincter. This causes pain and burning, often called heartburn - although it has nothing to do with the heart. While we all have heartburn at some stage, persistent heartburn (more than two or three episodes a week) may suggest Acid Reflux Disease. Other symptoms include a sour taste in the mouth, swallowing difficulties, upset stomach and even coughing and hoarseness. Some causes of Acid Reflux Disease, or GERD, include a hiatal hernia, obesity, smoking, alcohol abuse and certain foods. Symptoms can be greatly relieved or prevented by lifestyle and dietary changes as well as the use of herbs known to promote healthy digestion. If symptoms persist, it is always wise to consult your doctor to prevent further complications.

Chronic (longterm) digestive complaints can significantly affect quality of life and require a more comprehensive and holistic approach. If you have these symptoms regularly, this may indicate incorrect diet, unhealthy lifestyle or one of the conditions described above. Feelgood Health's Gastronic Dr. is especially formulated in capsule form to assist with overall digestive health. Containing herbs especially chosen for their beneficial effect on the entire digestive system, regular use of Gastronic Dr. can help your digestive system to heal itself, reducing and preventing the pain, discomfort and embarrassment of flare ups associated with chronic digestive ailments.

Naturopaths recognise that the whole person must be treated in order to maximize health and reduce symptoms of imbalance in the system. Research has indicated that a combination of natural remedies, regular exercise and dietary changes can make a significant difference to the lives of people suffering from digestive disorders and complaints. While many of these problems are strongly linked to modern eating habits, digestive disorders have been around since the dawn of time. This means that the natural approach has a long history of excellent results without side effects and further damage to the system.

Recognising the need for a healthier and more effective approach, without the side effects of the prescription drugs, Feelgood Health has developed Gastronic Dr. and Digest Assist - both 100% herbal remedies containing well researched ingredients and manufactured in therapeutic dosage according to the highest pharmaceutical standards. Taken regularly, Gastronic Dr safely and effectively acts to improve digestive health, reduce inflammation and reduce and prevent the symptoms of digestive disorders. Digest Assist, which comes in fast acting and convenient drop format, is the perfect companion to Gastronic Dr, quickly and effectively putting an end to acute symptoms of digestive distress like heartburn, nausea, gas, flatulence, indigestion, reflux, etc.

• Matricaria recutita, also known as German Chamomile, is a medicinal herb which has been used by European naturopaths for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and calming properties make it an extremely effective treatment for digestive disorders.
• Filipendula ulmaria, or Meadowsweet, is an anti-inflammatory, soothing digestive remedy which helps to protect the digestive tract and reduce stomach acid secretions. It is also effective in reducing the pain of digestive disorders and ulcers and is similar in structure to the synthetic drug called acetylsalicylate, or aspirin - without the side effects commonly associated with aspirin.
• Ulmus fulva, or Slippery Elm, is one of the most effective herbs used in reducing digestive pain and irritation and also protects and soothes the lining of the stomach and digestive tract due to its high mucilage content. Only bark from top quality Slippery Elm is used in Gastronic Dr.
• Sutherlandia frutescens, also known as 'Cancer Bush' or 'Kankerbossie' is a medicinal herb exclusively found in Southern Africa and has been used by indigenous people for thousands of years to treat chronic and acute digestive complaints, internal cancers and as a powerful tonic. Recent research has confirmed its adaptogenic properties. Sutherlandia contains a number of highly active compounds, including pinitol, L-canavanine and the amino acid, GABA. L-canavanine is a strong L-argine antagonist that has documented anti-cancer and anti-viral activity (Swaffer et al. 1995, Crooks and Rosenthal, 1994, Ostlund and Sherman, 1996)

Caution: Safety in pregnancy has not yet been established.