The causes of Impaired Digestion!

Digestive Care newsletter states in their April 2008 newsletter that "Impaired digestion can be caused by many factors of everyday life, including stress, the consumption of processed foods, inadequate chewing, excess fluid intake with meals, and overeating." They also defined "Stress: All unconscious activity in the body is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which in turn controls your digestive system and our reactions to stress, whether it be physical, mental or emotional in nature.  Any type of stress can have a adverse effect on the digestive process, virtually stopping it by lowering pancreatic enzyme production and inhibiting HCI production."

A personal example of great stress has accured in my life at many times. One was at the age of 13 years when I developed IBS, Irritable Bowel Syndrome. No food would remain in my body for long periods of time because I developed a spastic colon. Emotional stress was the problem because of  unhealthy family situations. My nervous system was controlling my colon. Sometimes we keep looking at the problem but never get to the ROOT of the issue. Once I got to the ROOT of the problem my digestive system began to get under control.

One point of wisdom is the atmosphere in which we eat in. Meal time should be a time of quiet and restful relationships. Our nervous systems react to negative, loud and unhealthy circumstances. I am not a loud person by nature, but raising a large family with children of all different personalities and temperments can be a challenge in and of itself. The family meal-time was one of utmost importance to me. I trained each of my children throughout their growing years that same principle.

It was important for me to create a family memory that they could pass on to their children, if they so choose to. One child had their day to help me cook and prepare the meal. The table was set with a pretty table cloth or placemats. The children would even make name tags for each person sitting at the table, which they delighted in doing. They were proud of their accomplishments. Candles and flowers were always a daily arrangement on the table. The table was inviting! Now for the relationships, well it didn't matter what you prepared, some blessed little soul had to complain about what they didn't like. But they were taught at an early age to BE THANKFUL, and eat what was put before them. None of the children were  fond of my Buckwheat groats. But they still ate and to this day none are fussy eaters.  The principle here is to create an atmosphere that is pleasant and warm. Your nervous system and digestive system will thank you for it.