Dietary Supplements & Gastrointestinal Problems

Gastrointestinal problems can cause you to experience significant abdominal discomfort and other symptoms. The Cleveland Clinic states that constipation and irritable bowel syndrome are among the most common functional disorders of your gastrointestinal tract. There are many possible causes of gastrointestinal problems, including lack of dietary fiber, stress and certain medical conditions. Before using dietary supplements to help treat your gastrointestinal problem, consult your doctor for advice and guidance.

Gastrointestinal Problems

According to the Mount Sinai Medical Center, possible diseases or conditions of your gastrointestinal tract include Crohn's disease, diarrhea, gastritis, gastric ulcer, ulcerative colitis and cancer of your esophagus, stomach and small intestines. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is perhaps the most common gastrointestinal problem experienced by Americans. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal problems include abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and indigestion. Digestive problems tend to occur more often in older individuals.

Useful Dietary Supplements

Most natural treatments targeting your gastrointestinal, or digestive, system focus on restoring the health of your mucus membranes, treating inflammatory conditions or eliminating parasites or other types of infection. Herbalist, naturopathic doctor and author Sharol Tilgner states that the following herbal supplements may help protect or heal your gastrointestinal problems: chamomile, lemon balm, fennel, marshmallow, goldenseal, slippery elm, echinacea, turmeric, geranium, peppermint, ginger and elecampane. Non-herbal dietary supplements for gastrointestinal problems include vitamin A and C, zinc, digestive enzymes, glutamine and essential fatty acids.

Most Effective Supplement

Chamomile is one of the most effective supplements in treating gastrointestinal problems. Chamomile, notes the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, is a commonly used dietary supplement for gastrointestinal conditions such as flatulence, diarrhea and stomach upset. It may also help treat indigestion, gastritis and gastric ulcers. Chamomile, a plant that grows throughout the world, possesses anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antibacterial action. This dietary supplement is particularly helpful in treating inflammation of your gastrointestinal tissue.

Warnings

The use of dietary supplements in the treatment of gastrointestinal problems does not guarantee a cure. Dietary supplements should be used in conjunction with other therapies recommended by a qualified health care professional. Some supplements contain powerful substances that can significantly affect your body's processes and should be taken with caution. A health care professional with advanced training in clinical nutrition can suggest helpful supplements for your condition and how to take them.