Overcoming indigestion with acupuncture

Indigestion also known as dyspepsia in Western medicine and food stasis in Chinese Medicine is a very common digestive disorder.   The main causes of indigestion are primarily lifestyle related: irregular eating habits, over eating, eating late at night, diets high in fats, sugars, meats, processed or even raw foods.  Medications can also be a culprit with some high blood pressure, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and angina medications affecting digestive function.  In some instances indigestion may be the first symptom of more serious problems such as peptic ulcer disease, hiatal hernia or cancer.  So please consult with your physician to rule out all possibilities.

Besides recognizing the commonly known signs of indigestion, abdominal bloating and acid reflux many people are often unaware that they frequently experience symptoms related to indigestion.

Seven signs that you might be experiencing indigestion:

1. Upper abdominal distention that is relieved with belching
2. Abdominal pain that is aggravated with the application of pressure
3. Heart burn/Acid reflux
4. Nausea and/or Vomiting
5. Reduced appetite
6. Rotten egg smelling flatulence
7. Difficult or irregular bowel movements

Chronic indigestion can wreak havoc on the digestive system, causing irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract and affecting its natural function.  From a Chinese Medical standpoint long - term indigestion can often be linked to a yeast build up in the digestive tract know as Candida overgrowth.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is an excellent natural, safe, effective and drug – free way to eliminate the root cause and symptoms of indigestion. By stimulating specially selected acupoints with Acupuncture, Acupuncturists are able to reduce digestive tract inflammation, promote the body’s parasympathetic - rest/digest response, regulate digestive tract peristalsis (movement), and control Candida overgrowth.  Acupuncture treatments are combined with Chinese Medical diet therapy to enhance treatment effectiveness by encouraging positive diet and lifestyle changes.

 

Mind body tip to aid digestive function:

The parasympathetic nervous system that regulates the body’s rest/digest response cannot operate simultaneously with the sympathetic nervous system that regulates the body’s flight/fight response.  So what does that mean?  When you eat relax!  Eat slowly, take your time and picking less stressful times of your day to enjoy meals.  Your digestion will thank you for it.

 

For more information on indigestion or to book a free 15-minute consultation to find out if Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is right for you contact my office at: (250) 860 – 2212 or visit our website: www.klochiropractic.ca

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.