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Stress and Digestiae

By: Dr. Patrick Dorvilus
(l.r"r, is an inevitable part of life. fect digestive health.
, \ Ad"ncing family, career and oth- brain
lJ er responsibilities are just part
of the many demands put on women
today.
Stress manifests itself in many dif-
ferent ways. Some people experience
fatigue, insomnia, headaches or muscle
aches.Yet stress almost always reveals
itself in the digestive system. Some
people experience gastrointestinal
symptoms such as appetite changes,
nausea, indigestion and heartburn,
appears before the age of 35.
Stress oftentimes brings on symp-
toms of lBS, and although the origin
of IBS is still unknown, the relation-
ship between the stomach, brain and
related chemicals are a likely cause.
The intestines and stomach are closely
"wired" to the rest of the body. The
digestive system has more nerves than
the spinal cord, and most of the body's
serotonin, a mood-controlling chemi-
cal, is found in the digestive system,
not the brain. So it's not surprising that
stress and emotional states directly af-
When a person is stressed, the
releases chemicals into the
body which are designed to protect
the body from danger. Although these
chemicals are designed to protect our
bodies, they can sometimes cause un-
comfortable symptoms. For example,
when these chemicals are present in
the body, the colon and intestines can
contract and cause IBS symptoms.
A diagnosis of lrritable Bowel Syn-
drome is made based on patient symp-
toms.Although there is no cure for lBS,
Some IBS patients have also benefited
from counseling to learn stress cop-
ing skills. Sometimes, medications are
prescribed to alleviate nausea, diarrhea
and constipation.
Many of my patients who suffer
from IBS have benefited from a daily
regimen of probiotics. I suggest that my
patients take a daily probiotic supple-
ment called Belly Aid Daily by AIM 100
Nutrition. This supplement contains
two potent kinds of bacteria in just
one dai[ pill with an optimal ingredi-
ent concentration.These beneficial mi-
croorganisms, or microflora, naturally
occur in our bodies by the billions! Of-
tentimes, our bodies are depleted of
these important microorganisms due
to medications, such as antibiotics, and
diet.This can result in gastrointestinal
discomfort, bowel irregularity and nau-
sea.Taking a daily probiotic supplement
can help to maintain and restore these
beneficial bacteria and can potentially
help alleviate IBS symptoms.
Another dietary supplement de-
signed for IBS relief is AlMl00 Nutri-
tion's Belly Aid Anti-Spasm supporr.
This innovative herbal formula con-
tains stress-relieving peppermint oil,
English lavender oil and chamomile.
This potent yet gentle formula calms
the colon to relieve gas, bloating and
discomfort.
For more information about
AIM 100 Nutrition's Daily Probiotic
Support and Anti-Spasm Support, visit
www.aim I 00nutrition.com.
ing uni{ue cooperctiye rnedicol rclre with
Gouin,N.D.,a
Gouin, noturolathic physicion
N.D., o noturopathic Dhysicion and rwellness
speciolist Both physicions ore currently occepting
new patients.To mal<e an oppointment, coll (860)
649-6944 (MYGI).

whereas others suffer from symptoms
of lrritable Bowel Syndrome, or lBS.
IBS is characterized by stomach
cramps, gas and bloating along with
bouts of diarrhea or constipation.Ac-
cording to the National lnstitutes of
Health, approximately 20 percent of
the adult population, or one in five
Americans, have symptoms of lBS,
making it one of the most common di-
agnosed disorders. More women than
men suffer from lBS, and it usually first
€fl€s
there are many ways to help to allevi-
ate symptoms. Dietary changes that in-
clude increased fiber and avoiding fatty
foods, caffeine and alcohol can some-
times bring relief. Some patients also pffa{siTHn Tx} w{ftR
exclude certain foods to determine if
particular foods bring on IBS symp-
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toms. Patients with stress-induced
IBS oftentimes benefit from a gentle
272 Vain Street, Manchester, CT 06042
exercise regimen, which aids in diges- Tel: (860) 649-6944 (MYGI)
tion and also helps to manage stress. Web: www.d rdorvi ds.com' I