This document discusses various gastrointestinal problems and provides natural solutions to prevent or alleviate them. It covers what gas and bloating are, common causes like swallowing air, and normal bodily functions like stomach rumbling. Conditions like GERD, IBS, and diverticulosis are explained along with their links to diet and lifestyle. The document recommends dietary changes like reducing gluten and sugar, increasing fiber intake, and supplements that may help digestion. Exercise, stress management, and moving away from overly processed foods are also emphasized as ways to support gastrointestinal health.

1. By
M. SCUNZIANO, MD, NMD
02/20/2014
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GAS, BLOATING & OTHER
GASTROINTESTINAL PROBLEMS CAN BE
PREVENTED OR STOPPED
DISCUSSION ON HOW TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN

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Contents:
*What is Gas? Bloating?
*My stomach makes a lot of noise…
*It’s REFLUX not REFLEX!
*Note on Gastroparesis
*Are you annoyed by an “irritable bowel”?
*Diverticulosis is a common malady
*The gluten factor
*Exercise must happen
*You must change your food program
*The supplements that really help
*Conventional approaches/Note on surgery
*Concluding messages
*Recommended reading

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IT’S a GAS…but what is GAS?
The composition of GAS in physiological terms is that which
contains oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide and
methane.
Upper body GAS is what is experienced as burping or belching
(eructation) that removes gas from the stomach via the
mouth. This action can alleviate abdominal pain associated.
It is NORMAL to produce gas. Up to 2 liters of it is average!

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Everyday activities of chewing, drinking, swallowing,
laughing, smoking or talking while eating can and will all
contribute to the formation of GAS BUILD UP & BLOATING.
SO, we essentially will SWALLOW air that can lead to the
discomfort if it becomes excessive.
And, the problem does not stop there…

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BORBORYGMUS…
This is the LOUD STOMACH RUMBLE that is in fact not the stomach
at all. Caused by either hunger, prolonged period of time between
meal or a lot of smooth muscle activity in the small intestines,
borborygmus is generally not a pathological (serious medical)
problem.
Signals from the brain that indicate the body is in need of
nourishment will stimulate peristalsis (an active forward propulsive
motion to move digestive juices with potential food present) and
noises can be heard from the abdominal area.

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Choosing to eat within reasonable time periods,
i.e. ranging from every 3-5 hours, rather than
every 6-12 hours, can help reduce this noisy
“annoyance”. Eating quietly and slowly can be
preventive.
In many cases, choosing lower- sugar-load foods
such as GLUTEN-FREE grains and yams, olives, bok
choy, zucchini and berries, can reduce or prevent
the noises.
Dairy products are another common culprit.

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Lower body GAS is another potential problem for many and the
reason usually involves the work of bacteria on the food that we
choose to eat. As food is passing into the large bowel from the
small bowel, bacteria enter on the scene and process a lot of the
undigested food elements with the resulting generation of MORE
GAS as the end-products are FERMENTED. This is another
contribution to BLOATING for many people who are taking in a high
carbohydrate (sugar) and high meat diet.
Flatulence with flatus or the “fart” is the OTHER GAS that we all
“experience” everyday at all ages without exceptions!!!
Normally, we will expel over a liter of lower gas via the anus. The
scent of the flatus is fully dependent on the content of one’s diet.

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Strong aromas from flatus will come with:
HIGH SIMPLE SUGAR, HIGH MEAT AND SATURATED FATTY DIETARY
HABITS.
Lesser or little aromatic flatus will be seen in those whose diets
contain:
Low glycemic index foods such as millet, brown rice, quinoa,
polenta, oats, spelt, berries, grapefruit, rice milk, soy milk, lactose-
free milk, alfalfa, green beans, squash and herbs like basil, ginger,
coriander, mint, parsley, oregano and rosemary

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Once we ingest food and swallow too much air, the
stomach may feel quite full and distended or
BLOATED. Or, we can just be taking in too much
food and/or liquid that will lead to the STUFFED
feeling that can even be nauseating.

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Reasons for OVERDOING the air, food or drink?
1) Bad habit of eating fast leading to overindulgence
2) Skipping meals with resulting increased hunger drive
3) Drinking before, during and after a meal
4) Socializing while eating or talking while eating
5) Anxiety or depression
6) Cravings or increased appetite from certain substances i.e.
therapeutic or “recreational” type drugs
7) Compulsive eating disorder

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WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED
REFLUX?????

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Better known as gastroesophageal
reflux or GERD, this is a VERY
COMMON ailment.
This is a mechanical disruption of the
valve or lower esophageal muscle
(sphincter) that is intimately
connected to the stomach. It is a
“faulty” function that allows stomach acid contents to move
up into the esophagus and cause any or many of these
symptoms:

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Heartburn, nausea, chest pain or pressure that is confused with a
true heart condition, gas, bloating, upper back pain, irritability,
choking or “something stuck” sensation, pain on swallowing,
coughing, voice raspiness or hoarseness, bad taste in throat or
mouth (water brash).
GERD may happen in infancy or any time of life. It is most common
in mature adults but due to trends of higher food intake, obesity
and haphazard meal schedules, the problem is seen in younger
adults, teens and even adolescents.

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The alarming surging rates of GERD correlates strongly with
those of Obesity and Diabetes. There is also a high association
with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Genetic influences are suspected
but not proven.
NOTE: Gastroparesis is another problem that can happen with
GERD and more often with Diabetes. It is an abnormally slow
emptying of the stomach contents. It needs to be determined if
you have this condition. It is a very bloated feeling, aggravated
by fatty foods, that is unrelieved by most treatments! Find out if
you have it.

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IT IS BY IMPROVING ONE’S LIFESTYLE THAT
GERD CAN BE PREVENTED OR EVEN
CURED. THIS SHOULD BEGIN EARLY IN LIFE
AND CONTINUE FOR LIFE. IF YOU THINK
YOU HAVE THIS CONDITION, IT IS TIME TO
HAVE IT ASSESSED AND TO CHANGE!

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More sensible eating and use of ingredients that “balance” the
stomach, rather than overtax it and disrupt its normal
movements and signals, is the way to approach the reflux
condition.
If you are actually LACKING stomach acid, you can have this
checked by a specialist. Natural approaches include trial on apple
cider vinegar diluted in water and/or betaine hcl to see if the
esophagus and stomach are alleviated.
Those who have low stomach acid or hypochloria would benefit
from this program.

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Note: Betaine HCL is sold as a food
supplement that is carefully titrated to
the level needed for alleviation and/or
resolution of reflux condition. It needs to
be done with caution and under guidance
of expert or professional. It cannot be
used along with NSAIDS, steroids or in the
presence of active ulcer disease or other
severe gastrointestinal malady. Check
with your naturopathic provider for more
on this. Checking for low acid may have to be done via special
testing. A reference book by Dr. J. Wright is indicated at the
conclusion of this composition.

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IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)…

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An alternating constipation/diarrhea pattern is a hallmark
feature of IBS. It is usually associated with ANXIETY and
other mental health disturbances. It has a STRONG
correlation with Lactose and Gluten intolerances.
This problem is alleviated with PROPER DIETARY and
STRESS REDUCING applications. Lack of fiber, lack of
exercise, anxiety, high stresses and more are all
contributors to this irritable syndrome.

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DIVERTICULOSIS…

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A VERY COMMON condition that
affects hundreds of millions of people,
many of whom are “unaware”. Like,
GERD, it is a structural, mechanical
problem caused by faulty food
selection and eating habits over
decades. This condition is acquired
after many years.
Diverticulae are pockets that form in
the LARGE BOWEL, likely from slow
movement of stool through the bowel,
constipation, medications that reduce
the bowel activity and hereditary
factors.

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Constipation is a condition of irregular or lack of daily bowel
movements. This is extremely common and is the main contributor to
diverticulosis. The condition of DIVERTICULITIS is the result of
inflamed diverticulae in which fecal matter, small undigested food
particles and bacteria build up and cause pressure, pain and a
predictable call to the doctor or emergency room.
One can be afflicted with both diverticulosis and IBS. The diverticulitis
that can occur can sometimes lead to the need for surgical
intervention to remove a highly diseased or perforated colon!
PREVENTION is via BETTER DIET AND LIFESTYLE HABITS…More fiber,
no junk, exercise, rest and relaxation.

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THE GLUTEN FACTOR

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Gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, IBS, weakness, brain
fog, skin rashes, muscle aches, irritability, anxiety, intolerances to other
foods, meds and supplements.
Wheat, rye, barley and, in some cases, oats, can cause a MYRIAD of
symptoms that include:
A good rule to follow: REDUCE OR ELIMINATE YOUR
GLUTEN INTAKE.
There are many alternatives. Avoid dairy for the most
part, reduce all sugar and exclude artificial sweeteners.
These motions should help you achieve overall better
stomach and intestinal function without the associated
distress symptoms.

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EXERCISE IS A MUST…

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In order to promote the proper forward propulsion of
food through the digestive tract and prevent buildup of
gas, food residue, weight gain and the complications that
these will cause.
By exercising, you will allow all the digestive processes to
run efficiently. Studies have been published that prove
these benefits.

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Do not do HEAVY exercise following a substantial
meal to avoid gastrointestinal upset and muscle
cramping. Do not bend over, especially if you
have GERD. Wait about 1 hour before beginning
any significant muscle exertion so that you will
feel comfortable in motion. Examples of heavy
exercise: jogging, soccer, high impact aerobics,
jumping, tumbling, fast swimming, intense yoga
or other sport with high energy motions.
It is perfectly fine to walk in stroll or moderate speed after a meal.

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CHANGE YOUR FOOD PROGRAM…NOW!

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The sooner you BEGIN TO CHANGE to make it better, the
more likely you will see your gastrointestinal ailments and
complaints go away.
Key steps to change:
1) Plan your strategy by looking at yourself and deciding if
you are feeling unwell or lousy on a continuous or very
regular basis.
2) Your kitchen food contents needs to be reviewed.
3) Your outside eating habits need be reviewed.

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4) If you are married, with a companion or a family of people,
look at how the food program works. Do not force yourself
to eat what others want. You need to cook what you need
and not sacrifice with others’ tastes for your own body.
5) Use a food plan suggestion that makes sense. Seek recipes
and meal-planning guides that offer tips for balanced,
healthful foods.
6) Choose fresh or organic over boxed, frozen or highly
processed.
7) Make sure fiber is high on your list. Plants are fiber!
8) When ready to eat, take small portions and sit down.

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9) Eat slowly and small to moderate content. Avoid piling
food on plate and going for seconds.
10) Do not put bread on the table unless someone is very
interested in it. Avoid the temptation to eat this and bloat
yourself. Take only a very small portion if you strongly
desire the bread. Use gluten-free bread.
11) Choose a rice or bean noodle as a small side dish to
compliment your fish, veggies, seeds, nuts. You can use a
few rice crackers to satisfy the “bread” urge.
12) Do not force extra food into your mouth. Stop eating when
you are feeling satisfied. Overeating will be painful.

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13) Avoid carbonated beverages or reduce them substantially.
14) Fast for one day a week using water or green juices for
hydration over the 24 hour period.
15) Alcohol should be eliminated
16) Coffee needs to stop if you have regular heartburn or GERD.
Make sure caffeine is out of the picture!
17) Citrus juices are not recommended
18) Chocolate is a huge problem. Avoid it.
(SEE THE FODMAP ATTACHMENT ON CHOOSING BEST FOODS)

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SUPPLEMENTS THAT CAN HELP…
NOTE: please determine what your digestive problem is before you undertake a
supplemental program. See your health provider for any evaluation needed or
concerns that you have on the GI tract.

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Digestive enzymes: products from Nature’s
Plus, Enzymatic Therapy, Source Naturals and
Enzymatica are all fine. Take one before a
meal to help with inadequate acid or
abdominal distress associated with eating.
Probiotics: Renew Life, Natran, New Chapter,
Enzymatic Therapy are all fine product lines.
Choose the one that lets you feel comfortable
and without gas or distress at defecation. You
should have formed stools from 1 to 3 times daily.
Usual dosings: 50-80 billion in one capsule 1-3
times before meals.

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Aloe Vera: juice or direct plant contents 2-3 times
a day; take in amounts that you will tolerate.
Good for GERD
Betaine HCL: 1 pill before a meal to titrate for
maximum benefit in hypochloria or low acid
conditions. This needs to be done with guidance
from a health provider.
Peppermint tea: sips of this tea can help ease bloating
and upset stomach.
Apple cider vinegar: dilute in water or add to salads and other
foods. It is a natural digestive aid. Use often. Organic is best. Take
small amounts if you have acid burning sensations.

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Lemon balm: for tea to relieve upset stomach
Dill: prepare seeds in a tea to relieve gas and bloating
Fennel seeds: chew or brew for tea to help digest, reduce gas
Chamomile: brew leaves for tea to ease fullness
CHOOSE THAT WHICH WORKS BEST FOR YOUR BODY

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ON CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS FOR
ABDOMINAL AILMENTS…

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Many products are on the market for OTC or prescription
purchase.
If you are in need of quick relief of symptoms and you
prefer to use these medications, be advised that they
should be used with caution and prolonged use is NOT
recommended due to the numerous serious outcomes
reported. Doctors can prescribe but you as a consumer
should be fully aware of the potential harm along with the
proposed benefits:

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Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): drugs like omeprazole,
pantoprazole, Nexium, Dexilant, etc. are used for GERD. They
are strong and can work fast. The medication should be used
for a short duration while the person is CHANGING the food
and lifestyle program.
Potential outcomes: loss of bone, muscle cramps, weakness,
hair loss, memory loss, altered bowel function, malignancies.
Discuss with your doctor before continuing long-term. Ask
questions and don’t rely on this medication as your savior or
your ticket to eating “anyway I want”!!

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ANTACIDS: zantac, Tagamet, Pepcid, are all acid reducers.
They are not as powerful as the PPIs but they can cause
problems with digestion, malabsorption and hormone
imbalances to name a few. Like the PPIs, do not rely on these
meds for long. Change your habits and heal the GI tract.
Simethicone: Mylanta, Gaviscon and GasEx, Mylicon are all
OTC products that will reduce gas and bloating. They actually
pull small gas bubbles together and create a large bubble that
can be expelled easier via the mouth or anus. Best to keep to
minimum. No serious harm with use.

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Tums and Calcium carbonate: these can be used without much issue for ease
of indigestion, gas or fullness. The problem with these products is that they
become like “candy” and the calcium in them is not an absorbable type so do
not assume you are benefitting by taking them daily.
Lactase: tablets or drops for those who want to use dairy products but suffer
from the lactose sugar intolerance; best to not use dairy if you are intolerant.
The milk is a highly processed food and the problems associated with its
hormones, heavy proteins and antibiotics are not what you need for a
healthy body (or an ailing body!).
Alpha-galactosidase (BEANO): an enzyme that is taken by dropper or pill
form before a meal to help digest the sugar found in beans and many
vegetables. It should be considered for those who enjoy these foods but find
them uncomfortable to consume due to the abdominal distress. It DOES NOT
HELP LACTOSE or GLUTEN INTOLERANT people.

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SURGICAL APPROACHES

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If you have severe GERD with hiatal hernia, FUNDIPLICATION may be
the way you are headed. This is a procedure that involves pulling
the stomach around the esophagus to tighten the sphincter muscle
that is weak and wide open in some cases.
If you have severe diverticulitis that has led to bowel gangrene or
perforation, you will need a RESECTION of the colon involved.
Other conditions that require surgery can include tumor removal,
inflammatory bowel disease, bowel obstruction, appendicitis, gall
bladder removal, lysis of scar/adhesions or other altering
procedures of the GI tract to alleviate the problem!

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CONCLUDING TAKE HOME MESSAGES

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1) The only way to truly take care of the gastrointestinal tract is to
CHOOSE THE BEST FOOD AND LIFESTYLE PROGRAM FOR YOU.
2) REMEMBER THAT WHAT WORKS FOR ONE MAY NOT WORK FOR
ALL
3) You should not just take a product or use a program because a
popular celebrity or doctor tells you that it works. You need to
investigate and question anything that will go into your body.
4) Your gastrointestinal tract cannot be healthy if you do not stop,
think and respect what it does for you.
5) Now is the time to make the right choice for the sake of keeping
your GI tract happy.
6) You are what you eat, what you absorb and how you move.

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RECOMMENDED READINGS
• Chutkan, R., M.D. Gutbliss: A 10-day Plan to Ban Bloat, Flush
Toxins and Dump Your Digestive Tract Baggage; Avery, USA;
2013
• Maselli, D. Beat the Bloat- Say Goodbye to Stomach Bloating
Forever; Create Space Independent Publishing; USA; 2013
• Wright, J., M.D. Why Stomach Acid is Good For You; M. Evans
& Co.; USA; 2001