Diet and nutrient intake are critically important in the proper function of the digestive system. We must keep the system running properly if it is to perform it’s function adequately. For example, constipation effects over 4 million people on a regular basis. Typically, this is caused by poor fiber intake, poor water intake and imbalance in the bacterial content of the colon, or a yeast overgrowth syndrome called intestinal candidiasis. Candidiasis can be caused by a deficiency of friendly bacteria within the G.I. tract, which allows an overgrowth of yeast (the most common being Candida albicans) and can lead to symptoms manifested by reflux, abdominal bloating, lethargy and a host of other symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the more common digestion problems seen in the country, and candida may also play a role in its symptoms.

As we age, the function of the intestinal system changes. Often, acid levels decrease, and poor digestion occurs, which can lead to symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. Digestive enzymes may help with this process.

Dietary and Product Recommendations and choices for the above conditions include:

Constipation:

1. Avoid highly processed carbohydrates and eat whole grains, lots of vegetables and some fruit.
2. Plenty of filtered water
3. High fiber diet and fiber supplements( total daily fiber intake 25 to 35 grams)
   • Twinlab FiberSol – capsules
   • Rainbow light fiber system
4. Lactobacillus (1 - 2 billion live organisms daily)
   • Nutrition Now PB 8 Probiotic Acidophilus for Life
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus Bifudus
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus Children
   • Twinlab Super Acidophilus

Candidiasis and Irritable bowel

1. Low carbohydrate diet, avoiding all refined grains and flours, as well as sugar
2. Plenty of filtered water
3. High fiber diet and fiber supplements( total daily fiber intake 25 to 35 grams), with the same product recommendations as noted above.
4. Lactobacillus (1 - 2 billion live organisms daily) as noted above
   • Nutrition Now PB 8 Probiotic Acidophilus for Life
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus Bifudus
   • Nature's Way Primadophilus Children
   • Twinlab Super Acidophilus
5. Peppermint:
   • Nature’s Way peppermint leaves
6. Specific anti yeast supplements
   • Aqua Flora High Potency Homeopathic Candida Remedy
   • Twinlab Yeast Fighters Extra Strength Capsule Concentrate
   • Rainbow Light Candida Cleanse
7. Digestive enzyme supplements
   • Rainbow Light Allzyme +Lactase
   • Twinlab Super enzyme caps
   • Nature's Way Digestion with enzymes