. Basically a gel, made up of silicon and oxygen, it coats the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract with a protective lining which then attracts and binds with irritants, toxins and pathogens. When the stomach empties naturally, these unwanted molecules are passed through the body. The gel can also bind with gases and reduce excess acidity which can help reduce flatulence. Great for bunging in your bag to take on holiday after too much rich food and booze. £10.95 for 12 sachets, silicol.co.uk 3 Viridian pills are really effective for combating that bloating feeling Credit: Enzymes VIRIDIAN High Potency Digestive Aid contains broad-spectrum digestive enzymes which play a key role in breaking down the food you eat. Your saliva naturally contains digestive enzymes and they speed up chemical reactions that turn nutrients into substances your digestive tract can absorb. The Viridian pills also contain betaine hydrochloride, a vitamin-like substance for people who have a deficiency of stomach acid production – which decreases as you age – plus peppermint and ginger to aid digestion. I love that Viridian uses no bulking agents or preservatives. These are a bit stinky but y){kind=link}
GASTROINTESTINAL disorders account for 25 per cent of GP visits but new research shows acid reflux drugs could raise the risk of dementia by up to a third.
The study looked at drugs called proton pump inhibitors and found people who took them for more than four and a half years had a higher dementia risk.
PPIs may reduce vitamin B12 levels, which can affect the brain.
Today Jane Atkinson looks at the healthier alternatives.
SILICOLGEL is a gel that treats stomach pain, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, reflux, nausea and heartburn.