Do you keep a packet of Pepto-Bismol in your bag or Tums by the bed? Do you experience bloating or excess fullness after eating? Heartburn or acid reflux? If you said yes to any of these, then 1) you’re not alone, and 2) there are a number of ways to feel better without chemicals or other harsh medications!
You may be surprised to learn that heartburn and other acid problems are actually a result of LOW stomach acid and not excess! Stomach acid is necessary not only to break down food in the stomach but to allow food to move from the stomach to the rest of the digestive system. When you have low acid, food stays in the stomach for too long and eventually begins to rot. It’s gross, but it’s true! Low stomach acid production can result from a number of issues, but stress, eating too quickly or while distracted, and poor diet are a few common examples.
Here are a few natural remedies that may help reduce or soothe indigestion and heartburn:
Raw, fermented apple cider vinegar (ACV) with the mother: Add a teaspoon or two to a glass of water and drink before a meal. The acidity of the vinegar stimulates natural acid production in your stomach. I recommend ACV to my clients who experience indigestion as well.
Fresh lemon juice: Add a squeeze of lemon to your water (hot or cold) between meals. Similarly to vinegar, the acidity in the lemon helps with acid production and digestion.
Raw, fermented sauerkraut or vegetables: Add as much sauerkraut or other raw, fermented vegetables to your meals as you like. The naturally occurring bacteria and yeast from the fermentation are great for your gut and can help ease digestion.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness as you prepare or wait for your meal as well as while you eat. Mindfulness is the practice of being in the present moment. When you are present with your meal and eliminate distractions and stress, you actually stimulate the digestion process — acid production included! Take a deep breath before you enjoy that first bite. Notice the smell, colors, textures, flavors, and any sounds. Try putting your utensils or food down between bites.
Of course there are many other ways to remedy issues with acid or digestion; however, these are some great tricks to help get you feeling better.
Shelby O’Hagan, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP)
Rebel Yum Nutrition
We will be doing our annual Shop-and-Drop on Black Friday, November 29
In the last two exercises of the month, we have looked at the progressions for split squats. The next exercise in that progression is adding movement of one leg to that stationary movement.
The beautiful colors of October have passed into the windy month of November. Here are some winter safety recommendations for you and your family living in homes and apartments.
Now that the rain is starting and fall sports are winding down, you may be looking for indoor activities to do during the week with your children. Our indoor, heated pool is a great place to burn some energy and get some exercise! Our trained and friendly lifeguards are there to keep an eye on and interact with your family. We offer several family swim times throughout the week. AND, if your child is at least 6 years old or has passed the swim test, you can even drop them off and go work out or run to the store!
At BAC we are focusing our efforts on helping members and non-members alike to “Find Your Reason” to keep up a rigorous exercise program. Finding your reason can be a short-range goal such as completing a walking or running a race, or a longer-term motivation to stay fit and be sure you are here in good shape for your family. Be sure to post your reason in a prominent place, (on your fridge or mirror), share it with friends and family, so they can help you stay the course during the dreary winter months; when all we really want to do is curl up in front of the fire.
This month our Friday Night Out will be a painting 