Digestive Problems? Try Yoga

By Freddy Margolis, Founder

According to Nutrition Business Journal, an estimated 60-100 million Americans suffer from digestive problems, ranging from an occasional stomach ache to more serious, chronic problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acid reflux. What's more, many seek treatment in the form of physician visits as well as over-the-counter medications and natural digestive aids to the tune of more than $100 billion annually.

There are many reasons why digestive problems can occur. One of the more obvious reasons is due to diet, poor eating habits and lack of physical activity/sedentary lifestyle. Certain foods can cause digestive issues. For example, high fiber items like beans, vegetables, fruits and grains can cause bloating as well as dairy products such as cheese and milk. Additionally, some sugar-substitutes can bring about similar conditions as well as stomach aches.

Some foods that slow the digestive process (beef and pork) contain too much starch (bread, potatoes) or lack nutrition (fast food) can cause constipation. Spicy foods, lactose-laced dairy, sugars and caffeine can cause diarrhea. Many of the aforementioned foods as well as those high in acidity (citrus juice), fats/oils (salad dressings) and alcohol all contribute to acid reflux. Other triggers include stress and allergies to specific food products, particularly for those who are lactose- or gluten-intolerant.

How Yoga Can Help

If you are suffering from digestive problems, yoga can offer relief. Numerous Asanas (poses) can stimulate the stomach, pancreas and the intestines for better health. Yoga Asanas

Increase gastrointestinal circulation

Increase food absorption

Reduce acid

Increase mucous production

Decrease gas

Remove constipation problems

Incorporate the following Asanas to tone up your digestive and excretory systems

Mandukasana (Frog pose)

Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

Parivritta Trikonasana (Revolved triangle)

Parivritta Utkatasana (Chair pose twist)

Sarvangasana (Shoulder stand)

Bharadvajasana I (Seated twist)

Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend)

Savasana (complete relaxation posture)

Along with performing these Asanas, bear in mind that no Yoga Asana can completely cure your digestive problems if you continue poor diet and eating habits. Switch to healthy, fresh foods like fruits and vegetables. Lower your meat, caffeine and alcohol intake. Make no mistake, processed fruit juices can be unhealthy too. Reduce the amount of junk food you consumer including those high in salt and sugar.

Incorporate a healthy diet and practice these Asanas regularly. Soon, you'll strengthen your digestive system for peak performance.