An underrated health tip: Bitters for your GI

Do you feel uncomfortable after eating a big meal? Does your stomach ache? This is a common issue that many of us face. But not to worry, there is an underrated natural solution and it’s in the form of what are called “bitters.”

The flavor of a bitter is what defines it. Bitter roots, greens, barks, dandelion, gentian, coffee, and dark chocolate all fall under the ‘bitter’ category.

All of these listed stimulate the digestive system by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes, resulting in the breakdown of foods and a smooth digestion process. In an effort to avoid indigestion, heartburn and other uncomfortable stomach and bodily issues, bitters can be helpful when taken prior to a large meal. In some ways, eating bitters can also prove to be a workout for our GI system, keeping it toned and functioning at a high level.

The use of bitters is famous throughout the world. Many cultures and communities believe bitter foods are important to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Bitters have been used in natural wellness recipes, and later by pharmacists in the 19th century, to help with stomach pains. Now, bitters are commonly used by many cultures including in India, where digestive health remedies are prepared from chiretta and fennel seed, which combines the bitter taste of chiretta with the warmth of fennel. This mixture works to excite the digestive system, while simultaneously relaxing the stomach.

In most instances, bitters are eaten before a big meal to ease digestion. For example, in Italy, the pre-meal, bitter drink is referred to as aperitivi. This is commonly a time during the early evening when folks gather to enjoy a non-alcoholic sparkling drink made from seltzer and light bitters. The most standard aperitivi mix includes a gentian root, artichoke leaf or dandelion combined with a citrus peel, fennel seed or angelica root, for that aroma finish.

Then, after the meal, many take down a short glass of what’s called amaro, which is a stronger drink that includes bitter roots in an effort to relieve heartburn and bloating.

Although they are proven helpful, bitters are not ideal for everyone. Pregnant women should specifically not take angelica root, which is contraindicated in pregnancy and anyone with a stomach ulcer should also be cautious, since bitters can irritate the ulcer.

When taking bitters for the first few times, it’s important to start small, using only a quarter teaspoon of bitters, or a similar measurement of food, since many people find a small dose is enough to help. Many like to use the dropper technique, by filling bitters in a dropper and placing the liquid directly on the tongue to ensure an accurate measurement. Lastly, if the taste is too strong, try adding a quarter of a teaspoon of bitters to sparkling water, which dilutes the bitter flavor.

John Walczyk is a registered compounding pharmacist at Johnson Compounding & Wellness in Waltham (www.naturalcompounder.com). Readers with questions about natural or homeopathic medicine, compounded medications, or health in general can email john@naturalcompounder.com or call 781-893-3870.