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We all know where indigestion sits on a scale of one to uncomfortable. An umbrella term for bloating, acid reflux, and a general feeling of fullness, indigestion (or dyspepsia) impacts us all at one point or another. Google stats reveal a 50 percent rise in searches for “indigestion treatment” over the past month, which makes the timing of a new study published about the benefits of turmeric.
The study has found that turmeric is as effective at treating indigestion as a commonly used, over-the-counter drug called omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor which prevents the stomach from secreting gastric acid. Used long term, research shows that drugs like these can lead to decreased microbial diversity in–and changes to–the gut microbiome, among other negative health effects.
The study, which analyzed 206 participants who suffered from functional dyspepsia–symptoms of which include feeling full quickly or feeling extremely full after food, and pain or burning in the stomach, but aren’t explained by a specific disease–over 28 days, found that participants who took two turmeric capsules (250mg) four times daily were suffering less digestion-related pain than those who took omeprazole. The results were stronger still after 56 days.
It’s yet more good PR for the benefits of turmeric, which is widely regarded as one of the best superfoods thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its active ingredient is curcumin, which has been scientifically proven to help manage inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, anxiety, and arthritis (to name a few), and is a good ingredient to incorporate into your routine–even at a low dose–for general health management.
A fiery mustard color, the spice can be added into smoothies, incorporated into delicious curries (and other food) or taken in supplement form, but studies do show that it’s worth combining with other ingredients, like piperine, to ensure it is bioavailable. Try this variety from Nature Made, which includes piperine, here.
Other things you can try to help encourage healthy motility include aiming to allow a three to four hour gap between meals each day, reducing your intake of raw food, walking after meals and trying some relaxation techniques, such as breathwork or slow, restorative yoga.
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