Source: EnzymedicaDigestive disorders are epidemic in the US and millions suffer regularly. While gas and bloating is common to both sexes, it is widespread in females, particularly during menses. Hoping to take a closer look at the problem, the digestive enzyme experts at The Enzyme Research Group, (ERG) in association with Enzymedica, Inc., conducted a survey of U.S. females. The results illustrate how impaired digestion can have troubling effects on women's lives.
The study uncovered
| Reduce Digestion Issues during Menses |
Eat more raw foods
Avoid trigger foods such as chips and pastries
Take a daily enzyme supplement
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that an overwhelming 96% of women report some sort of digestive issue, including 55% who suffer regularly. 40% said they have been diagnosed with a digestive disorder, and Heartburn and GERD topped the list.The researchers found that 45% experienced bloating that cycles with their periods, and nearly a third said that digestive upset was the norm during their 'monthly visitor.' When asked about trigger foods, the worst offenders were imbalanced meals, junk foods, dairy, and fatty meats.
Women can develop tummy trouble at any time of the month due to poor food choices, faulty digestion or enzyme deficiency. Cravings for salt and sugar reportedly lead women to overindulge, increasing the waistline and resulting in indigestion, bloating and distention.
45% of the women polled said that they consider themselves overweight
When it comes to symptoms, many females reported feelings of what could be called 'false' belly fat. This post-meal pot-belly makes them feel unattractive, less sexy, and even embarrassed.
"What women see isn't necessarily fat," shares Ellen Cutler, D.C., whose Mill Valley, California practice caters to females with digestive distress. "Instead, women are likely seeing bloating and distension due to monthly water retention and impaired digestion as a result of diet."
Dr. Cutler has over 20 years clinical experience treating digestion and allergy-related conditions and is the author of "MicroMiracles: Discover the Healing Power of Enzymes."
Relatively few are able to banish their fat pants, and a monthly waistline expansion is expected. 84% of women said bloating affects how clothing fits, and 74% said that this issue affects their self-esteem.
Practical advice for dealing with digestive dilemmas
In an ideal state, nutrients are absorbed properly, and by-products that should be eliminated make their way out. Our body uses enzymes to enhance digestion and turn the food we eat into energy. Produced throughout the digestive tract, and available from raw foods and supplements, these enzymes include amylase for carbohydrates, lipase for fats, protease for proteins, and cellulase for fiber.
Dr. Cutler explains, "During our period we often reach for packaged snacks like chips and pastries. These are high in sodium and devoid of natural enzymes and the micronutrients which support a healthy intestine. Hard to digest, they cause us to hold water and stall bowel movements. If we're already feeling crampy and moody, constipation and water retention isn't going to help."
So reducing consumption of trigger foods, particularly those we crave, is a good option.
Not all remedies require dietary modification, however. The ERG reports that 87% of women use dietary supplements, including enzymes and probiotics to aid the digestive process.
"Taking a daily enzyme supplement can create the foundation of a healthy digestive process," continues Cutler. "A product containing a full spectrum blend of all four key enzymes is considered an ideal digestive aid."
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Photo: Robert Bejil
