Gastric Disorders

Ayurveda Can Help You Beat IBS, IBD, and Other Digestive Problems

Digestive System Disorders like heartburn, irritable bowel, and inflammatory gut disease affect many people. Mainstream medicine often relies heavily on acid reducers, antispasmodics, and anti-inflammatories to provide symptom relief. However, these medications have side effects and do not always address the underlying causes.

At Dr. P. Alikuttys Ayurveda & Modern Hospital Kottakkal (home page), we offer a whole-person approach to treating digestive problems. Here's an overview of the Ayurvedic perspective on these conditions: 

Causes from an Ayurvedic Viewpoint 

In Ayurveda, most digestive issues arise from imbalances in Pitta and Vata life forces. Pitta governs digestion and metabolism. When disturbed, it can cause excessive acid production, inflammation, and ulcers. Vata imbalance can lead to spasms, bloating, and erratic motility. 

Major Digestive Disorders we specialize in Ayurveda

• Crohn's Disease: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. Periods of remission mixed with flare-ups of symptoms.

• Ulcerative Colitis: An inflammatory bowel disease that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the innermost lining of the large intestine and rectum, leading to symptoms like abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A common disorder affecting the large intestine and causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and/or constipation. Symptoms are chronic but tend to fluctuate in severity.

• Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, causing burning abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Can be acute or chronic. Causes include excessive alcohol use, medications, infections, or autoimmune disorders.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A digestive disorder where stomach acid or bile flows back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Often triggered by eating certain foods, being overweight, or pregnancy.

• Indigestion: Discomfort in the upper abdomen, often after eating. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, nausea, feeling overly full, and stomach pains. Usually lifestyle changes can help avoid indigestion.

• Constipation: Difficult, infrequent, or incomplete bowel movements. Stools can be dry and hard due to inadequate fiber, fluid intake, or physical activity. Some medication side effects or medical conditions may also contribute.

Some common factors that disrupt Digestive system are:

• Dietary Choices: Consuming processed, heavy, or incompatible foods can disrupt digestion and lead to imbalances.

• Stress: Chronic stress can weaken digestive function and disrupt the body's natural rhythms.

• Lifestyle Factors: Irregular eating habits, addiction of alcohol and tobacco, excessive travel, and lack of physical activity can negatively impact digestion.

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins and pollutants can contribute to the accumulation of Ama in the body.

Our Ayurvedic Treatment Approach

• Customized Herbal Remedies: Our experts prescribe herbal formulations to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and address the root causes of digestive issues.

• Panchakarma Detoxification: Detoxification therapies are employed to remove accumulated toxins (Ama) from the body and rejuvenate digestive organs.

• Dietary Guidance: Personalized dietary plans are designed to support optimal digestion and prevent future issues.

• Lifestyle Modifications: We provide recommendations for stress management, exercise, and daily routines to support digestive health.

• Yoga and Pranayama: Yoga asanas and breathing exercises are incorporated to reduce stress, improve digestion, and enhance overall well-being.

Prevention is Key

Ayurveda stresses balancing Agni or digestion and metabolism through proper diet, lifestyle, and mental tranquility. Key preventive measures include:

• Eating a moderate quantity on time, not too early or late.

• Avoiding incompatible food combinations. 

• Managing physical/mental stress effectively.

• Using spices like cumin, coriander, fennel, and ginger.  

• Herbal remedies for digestion after proper consultation.

Ayurveda provides a holistic framework for addressing digestive problems by considering physical and mental factors. Following its wisdom can lead to lasting relief and improved digestive health.

To learn more or make an appointment with our qualified team of doctors(hyperlink to doctors page), please call or email our center. Our team combines expertise in both conventional medicine and Ayurvedic principles for integrative care.