Carbonated Water
Carbonated water eases the symptoms of some forms of stomach ailments as well as constipation. I learned this the hard way, which, unfortunately, is usually how I learn all my lessons.
The main symptom of stomach problems that I have is feeling bloated or fullness in the upper abdominal region after overeating — something I do a lot. Suffering was my typical experience; then I started working for a man who would always take water and baking soda whenever he had these symptoms. One day, really miserable, I tried his remedy; after a short while, I felt much, much better.
Consequently, I did some research to learn why this works so well. This was long before antacid medications were sold over the counter (OTC) and also long before people could run to the doctor with every little ache, or pain, or stomach problem. Basically, adding baking soda with water produces carbon dioxide gas with bubbles; somehow the bubbles and the ingredients form a solution that aids the movement of the digestive tract, relieving some of the symptoms from overeating – that bloated feeling goes away.
This adding baking soda and water actually forms carbonated water which has been used for years to treat digestive complaints, yet no research exists if it is effective or how it works. I discovered studies showing something interesting — both the bubbles of carbon dioxide and the presence of high minerals can stimulate the digestive process. This, essentially , is what I was making with baking soda and water. There was no other information on whether the mineral-rich carbonated water or the bubbles are more effective.
I found some suggestions for stopping these problems before they develop, such as avoiding foods that cause you stomach problems, eating smaller meals, eating much less fat, and if you smoke, stopping as soon as possible. Also everyone should drink a healthy amount of fluids to maintain movement of your GI tract and counter constipation.
I read about some devices to make homemade carbonated water, which you can use for drinking. By adding a number of flavors, a great option to regular soda pop is created, especially if you want to avoid the calories. If you make this homemade drink with water rich in minerals, you have made available a very healthy and low calorie drink, called sparkling water, which is good for your whole family. A large assortment of calorie free flavors to flavor sparkling water to great taste is sold at allfreight.com.
But, the information that I do know from personal experience is that when you have overeaten but must work for the rest of the day, and feel absolutely miserable, carbonated water does help.
