According to estimates from Johns Hopkins University, about 40% of all adults experience at least one digestive disorder every year. We spoke with Alise Hassler, a Certified Nutritional Consultant at Pharmaca in Novato, about some of her recommendations for preventing and treating the most common digestive disorders.
"Gas and bloating are the main issues that our customers are looking to control," says Alise. She often suggests digestive enzymes for people who need help breaking down food. She likes taking them before a meal to fully benefit from their anti-inflammatory properties. However, it's also fine to take them after or even midway through a meal if you find that you can't handle them on an empty stomach.
Alise also notes that digestive problems tend to be exacerbated over the holidays due to the sugary and fatty foods that make their way onto the menu. "Excess sugar can mess with your natural flora," says Alise. She suggests taking a probiotic supplement to replace the healthy bacteria in the gut, as well as avoiding alcohol and other sugary, fatty foods as much as possible.
For some of our favorite product suggestions, check out the list below. Alise says that Pharmaca's selection includes products that can be used preventively or reactively, based on the individual's condition and needs. "We can be pretty flexible," says Alise. Now if only the same were true of your digestive system.
For more health advice, visit the Pharmaca store nearest you to speak with one of our nutritionists, herbalists or naturopathic doctors. Our in-store practitioners are available every day to recommend a solution for whatever digestive concern troubles you.