Best OTC Products for Digestive Problems: Get Your Digestive System Back on Track

Does your stomach often feel upset? Do you get cramps, bloating, or gas on a regular basis? You’re not alone. In fact, digestive issues are so common that nearly everyone experiences them at some point in their lives. As many as 1 in 7 adults may deal with such problems daily.

Depending on the severity, digestive issues can be extremely uncomfortable. They can also lead to other health problems if left untreated. Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to ease your symptoms and facilitate better digestion. Dietary supplements, for instance, are an effective way to improve your well-being and address common digestive issues.

What Causes Digestive Issues?

First thing’s first, it’s important to understand what, exactly, is causing your digestive issues. After all, the best way to treat a problem is to target its root cause. Overeating or maintaining an unhealthy diet is one of the most common causes of digestive problems. Eating too much at once can overwhelm your metabolic rate, leading to indigestion, heartburn, bloating, and gas.

Eating greasy or fatty foods may increase these symptoms. That’s because these foods are more difficult for your body to break down. Spicy foods, which irritate the digestive tract and produce heartburn, can create comparable problems. Eating too quickly can also contribute to indigestion, as it doesn’t give your stomach enough time to properly process your food.

What Medicine Is Best for the Digestive System?

If you’re dealing with digestive issues on a regular basis, it’s important to consult with a doctor that can recommend the best course of treatment based on your individual needs. However, if your problem is relatively mild, over-the-counter medication may be all you need to get rid of those pesky tummy issues in no time. Here’s a list of some of the most effective non-prescription products for treating digestive problems. The foremost position on this list is occupied by Morning Complete Pre & Probiotic Drink. This effective green apple flavored drink combines prebiotics, probiotics, and green superfoods that may help provide you with more energy. It also supports regular digestion, energy levels, and overall health.

Metamucil 

One of the best ways for dealing with gastrointestinal problems is buying Metamucil tablets. These capsules contain a natural fibre that can help ease constipation and make bowel movements more regular. They work by absorbing water in the intestines, which in turn soften stools and make them easier to pass.

The active ingredient in effective Metamucil tablets is psyllium husk, which acts as a gentle laxative by promoting bowel movements. Psyllium husk is also a good source of dietary fibre, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Certain types of Metamucil tablets also contain probiotics, which are live bacteria that are good for gut health. Probiotics can help restore the balance of microorganisms in your intestines, which can reduce digestive issues like bloating and gas.

There may be a decrease in the good bacteria in your gut if you take antibiotics frequently or have a poor diet. Metamucil tablets with probiotics can help replenish these lost bacteria and restore healthy gut flora.

Keep in mind that it may take 1 to 3 days for the effects of Metamucil to kick in. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 capsules, taken 3 times per day with meals. The maximum length of time you should take the pills is 7 days unless prescribed otherwise by your physician.

And lastly, remember to drink plenty of water when taking this medication, as it can cause dehydration if not taken with enough fluids. Seeing as dehydration can worsen constipation, it’s vital that you stay hydrated while taking Metamucil capsules.

Mintec IBS Relief

This medication is designed specifically for people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It contains the active ingredient mebeverine, which works to relax the muscles in your intestine and relieve cramping.

By relaxing the muscles in your intestine, Mintec IBS Relief can help reduce bloating, gas, and pain. It can also make bowel movements more regular and assist with passing stools. The recommended dose is 1 tablet 3 times per day, with or after meals.

It’s important to note that Mintec IBS Relief tablets are not a long-term solution for IBS. They’re meant to be taken on an as-needed basis when you’re experiencing symptoms.

Chemists Own Lactulose Liquid

Lactulose is a type of sugar that’s often used as a laxative. It works by drawing water into the intestines, which in turn softens stools and increases the number of bowel movements. 

This medication is available as a liquid, which makes it easy to take. The recommended dose is 15ml (1 tablespoon) 2 to 3 times per day, taken with or without food.

While lactulose is generally safe, it can cause some side effects like bloating, gas, and abdominal cramps. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. If they persist or become severe, be sure to speak to your doctor.

Buscopan Forte

Hyoscine butyl-bromide is the active ingredient in Buscopan Forte tablets. Its main purpose is to relieve abdominal pain and discomfort caused by cramps, while also helping to reduce bloating, wind, and tummy rumbling.

This medication relaxes the smooth muscle in your gut, which in turn relieves cramping. The recommended dose is 1 tablet 3 times per day, taken with or after meals. You should start to feel relief from symptoms within 30 minutes of taking the medication.

Gasbusters

As a homage to the classic movie Ghostbusters, these tablets are designed to get rid of gas. The main active ingredient is simethicone, which breaks down and disperses gas bubbles in your intestines. This may help relieve the symptoms of bloating, fullness, and pain.

The recommended dose is 1 or 2 tablets after meals and at bedtime. If you’re taking 2 tablets, you should space them out evenly throughout the day. You can take Gasbusters as needed when you’re experiencing digestive issues.

Gastrogel Liquid

This medication contains the active ingredient alginic acid, which is derived from brown seaweed. Alginic acid works by forming a gel-like barrier when mixed with water in the stomach and intestine. This barrier can help protect your gut from acids and other irritating substances.

Gastrogel Liquid can be used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and other stomach upsets. The recommended dose is 15ml (1 tablespoon) after meals and at bedtime. You should begin feeling relief from symptoms within 30 minutes of taking the medication.