Whether it is a meal which didn’t suit or an underlying ailment, digestive problems with symptoms like stomach ache, acidity, gas formation are very common and can be really uncomfortable. People generally tend to relieve the symptoms with home remedies. However, recurring symptoms could signal digestive disorders and it’s better to seek professional help.

Here are top 7 digestive disorders to watch out for:
Constipation: Constipation is characterized by stools that are hard and difficult to pass. The frequency of bowel movements is usually less than three times in a week for three or more weeks. Dehydration, intake of certain medications or lack of fiber in the diet can cause constipation. Dietary modifications include getting enough fiber, drinking plenty of water and also including exercise for better passage of stools.
GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition where a person experiences frequent heartburns. Food travels from the mouth to the stomach via the esophagus. A ring of muscles connects the esophagus and stomach. In GERD, these muscles become weak and relax, resulting in the stomach content going backward to the esophagus which can result in heartburn and eventually erosion of the lining of the esophagus. Eating small meals, avoiding meals within 2 hours from lying down or sleeping, avoiding foods that cause irritation are some ways to reduce symptoms of heartburn.
Gastritis: Gastritis occurs when the inner lining of the stomach is swollen or inflamed. Most common causes are heavy drinking, stomach infection,intake of NSAIDs, stress etc. A diet which is mechanically, chemically and thermally non-irritating, small and frequent meals, mindful eating, etc. are some of the beneficial dietary practices that can help.
Celiac disease: It is an autoimmune condition resulting from serious sensitivity to gluten. Ingestion of gluten containing food damages the lining of the small intestine, thus affecting the nutrient absorption from food. Eliminating gluten from the diet along with good micronutrient supplementation can result in prompt improvement.
IBD: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the digestive tract. The two major forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis involves recurring episodes of ulcer and inflammation in the inner lining of the large intestine while Crohn’s disease may involve any part of the GI tract. Common symptoms include rectal bleedings, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain. Good nutrition with a healthy, well balanced diet with the inclusion of probiotics can help manage the symptoms.
IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) which is a non-inflammatory condition is often confused with IBD. IBS is a group of symptoms including abdominal pain and change in bowel movement (diarrhea, constipation or both). The cause for IBS remains unknown while there is no visible damage to the digestive system as found in IBD. Dietary suggestions include eating more fiber, including probiotics and following a low FODMAP diet.
Food Intolerance: Food intolerance occurs when certain foods are not well tolerated by the digestive system, resulting in some symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, heartburn, vomiting, allergies, etc. The severity of the condition depends on the quantity of food ingested. Most of these symptoms overlap with other health conditions hence it’s not easy to identify the root cause. Some of the common types are lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, intolerance to food additives, etc. The best way to identify and manage food intolerance is by maintaining a food diary and trying elimination diets.

This article aims to throw some light on commonly experienced digestive disorders and related dietary assistance. A happy gut is equal to a happy YOU!!