How to improve digestion and bowel function without medication in children and adults

general practitioner, family physician of VSK Digital Clinic

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders in adults can have many causes, from lifestyle to medical conditions. It’s important to realize that every body is unique, and what causes problems for one person may not have the same effect on another.

Here are some of the most common causes of gastrointestinal disorders in adults:

One of the main causes of GI problems is poor diet. Consumption of large amounts of fatty, spicy or spicy food, as well as excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine and carbonated drinks can cause irritation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines;
psychological tension, stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on the GI tract. Some people experience symptoms such as heartburn, diarrhea or constipation when they are under stress;
infections caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites can lead to inflammation and GI disturbances. These are often accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and general malaise;

some medications also affect the GI tract and cause side effects such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, and disruption of the intestinal microflora;
sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity affect health. Regular physical activity helps normalize intestinal peristalsis and improves the overall function of the GI tract;
some people have a genetic predisposition to various GI diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Each person is unique and the causes of GI disorders can vary. If you are experiencing GI problems, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and prescription of appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes.

Table of Contents

Which foods should be included in an adult diet and which ones should be excluded?

Foods that should be included in the diet:

A variety of fruits and vegetables are a source of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. It is optimal to eat them fresh or steamed to preserve their nutrients;

whole-grain foods such as oatmeal, whole-grain bread, quinoa and brown rice. They are rich in dietary fiber and also contain vitamins and minerals;
skinless poultry, fish, seafood, tofu, beans, eggs and low-fat dairy products. Protein is essential for tissue growth and regeneration, so it is an important part of a healthy diet;
Essential fatty acids, which are found in nuts, seeds, avocados and fatty fish.

Foods to limit or eliminate:

Foods rich in sugar, salt and saturated fats. These include, for example, sweets, fast food, fried snacks and carbonated drinks;
sausages, frankfurters and other processed meat products. These contain high amounts of salt, preservatives and saturated fats, which can negatively affect the health of the GI tract and the body as a whole;
fried foods, fatty meat products, fatty sauces and fried snacks;
foods containing highly refined carbohydrates such as white flour, white rice, sweets and sugary drinks. These can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels and reduce the nutritional value of the diet;

alcohol. Excessive consumption of alcohol irritates the mucous membrane of the GI tract and increases the risk of developing stomach and liver diseases.

It is important to remember that dietary recommendations may vary depending on physical activity, medical conditions and individual needs. It is recommended to consult with a nutritionist for personalized recommendations for a healthy diet.

What else can I do on my own to improve adult bowel function?

In addition to proper nutrition, there are several do-it-yourself actions you can take to improve adult bowel function.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

Increase your intake of dietary fiber: dietary fiber helps maintain normal intestinal peristalsis and promotes regular stools. Include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds in your diet, which are excellent sources of dietary fiber;

Drink more water to ensure proper GI function. Water helps soften feces and make it easier to pass through the intestines. Try to drink about eight glasses (two liters) of water throughout the day;
incorporate moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming or yoga, into your daily regimen. Even small amounts of exercise, such as taking a daily walk, can be helpful in improving the intestinal system and normalizing peristalsis;

Properly distribute your meals throughout the day. Try to maintain a regular meal schedule, including breakfast, lunch, dinner and one or two snacks as needed. This will help keep peristalsis regular and improve digestion;
learn and practice relaxation techniques and stress management strategies such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing or walking in the fresh air. This will help reduce the effects of stress on the gastrointestinal system;
give up cigarettes. Smoking negatively affects the intestines, impairing peristalsis and reducing blood supply to the GI organs;
make sure that food is well washed before consumption, food preparation is carried out in a clean environment, and observe proper food storage conditions. Proper food hygiene plays an important role in preventing infections and food poisoning that can disrupt the GI tract.

If you have persistent problems with bowel function or have serious symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool or severe abdominal pain, see a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. A doctor’s consultation will help identify the cause of the problems and develop an individualized treatment plan or lifestyle adjustments.

Is it possible to do without medication?

In some cases, in the case of gastrointestinal disorders, it is possible to do without the use of medications, especially if the problems are not serious or chronic.

In some cases, lifestyle and dietary changes can help restore normal bowel function. If you notice that certain foods or drinks are causing you GI problems, try to avoid eating them.

If GI problems become serious, chronic, or accompanied by severe symptoms such as bleeding, severe pain, or significant weight loss, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor will be able to diagnose the problem, determine the cause of the problems, and recommend appropriate treatment.

In some cases, medications may be needed to manage the underlying causes or symptoms of GI dysfunction. The need for and type of treatment depends on the specific diagnosis and the patient’s medical condition. It is important to remember that self-medication or withholding medication without a doctor’s recommendation can have negative consequences.

How does the work of the GI tract change with diarrhea, constipation and after surgery? How to adjust it competently?

With diarrhea, there is an increase in the frequency and liquidity of stools, which can be caused by infection, food poisoning or other factors. In such cases, it is recommended to drink more fluids to prevent dehydration of the body. Drink pure water, non-carbonated mineral water or electrolyte solutions.

Avoid foods that can aggravate diarrhea symptoms such as spicy, fatty, seasoned foods, dairy products and coffee.

Probiotics may need to be taken to restore normal gut flora. If such a symptom develops, it is recommended to see a doctor for appropriate advice.

Constipation is characterized by delayed stools, which may be due to dietary fiber deficiency, insufficient water intake, lack of physical activity, or certain medical problems.

Increase your intake of dietary fiber such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes. Fiber helps improve intestinal peristalsis.

After surgery, the GI tract may be temporarily compromised due to stress, dehydration, changes in dietary regimen, or medication use. In such a situation, you should follow the recommendations provided by your doctor after surgery.

Gradually return to your normal diet, starting with easily digestible foods and gradually introducing more solid foods.
Drink enough fluids to avoid dehydration.

Avoid heavy and fatty foods, spicy spices and alcohol if they may irritate the GI tract.
If necessary, take recommended medications and probiotics to support GI function and restore healthy gut flora.
Follow physical activity recommendations to help normalize peristalsis and improve GI function.
If you experience any problems or unusual symptoms after surgery, contact your doctor immediately.

It is important to remember that every case is different and recommendations may vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s condition. Therefore, always discuss your situation with your doctor to get accurate and personalized recommendations for GI recovery after surgery.

What about children?

BestDoctor virtual clinic therapist

Each age is different, making it especially important for parents to determine if the complaints are caused by an infectious disease or allergy, such as the common celiac disease – gluten intolerance or allergy to cow’s milk protein.

At birth, the human intestine is sterile. In the first days of life, the microflora is repopulated, which further determines the work of the gastrointestinal tract. Formation of the intestine as a whole occurs up to five years, in the process of which may occur functional disorders – bloating, colic (the cause of which is unknown), constipation.

In these cases, it is recommended adequate drinking regimen with regular intake of water into the body, limitation of gas-forming and fixing products, including in the diet of the mother. If we are talking about breastfeeding (in the normal “plate” usual, but if possible with the exclusion of smoked, canned, salted and caffeine), if artificial – transfer to a specialized therapeutic formula.

pediatrician, pediatric infectious disease specialist

In children over a year old, intestinal infections are more common, in the treatment of which diet is used as an important direction, so that the work of the GI tract does not increase the symptoms of the disease – diarrhea, bloating. Detoxification of the body is shown: abundant drinking and a gentle diet make a significant contribution. In the case of prolonged constipation, laxatives are often prescribed, but also correct nutrition and physical activity of the child.

Thus, most children’s complaints are caused by functional disorders of the intestine in the process of adapting the work of microflora and peculiarities of nutrition, which is quite easily corrected by diet (including drinking regimen).

In a number of conditions – unusual (white, red, black) stool color, prolonged constipation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, severe pain – immediate consultation with a pediatrician or gastroenterologist with the necessary examinations is indicated.