How Smoking Affects Digestion – Reflux, Stomach Ulcer, and Bowel Dysfunction
Smoking is a habit that we all know harms the lungs and heart. However, it is much less frequently discussed how cigarettes disrupt digestion and the health of the digestive system. The smoke and toxins from cigarettes directly affect the stomach, intestines, and overall metabolism, weakening the body’s natural protective mechanisms.
Smoking and Reflux
Nicotine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter – the muscle that prevents acid from returning from the stomach to the esophagus. When it weakens, acid returns and creates a feeling of heartburn and burning in the chest, known as reflux. This problem is much more common and pronounced in smokers.
Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers
Smoking damages the stomach lining, reduces blood flow, and slows regeneration. Therefore, smokers are more likely to develop stomach or duodenal ulcers, and in those who already have them, the wounds heal more slowly.
Bowel Dysfunction
Toxins from cigarettes disrupt the balance of intestinal flora and impair the absorption of nutrients. The result is bloating, gas, irregular bowel movements, and frequent feelings of heaviness in the stomach.
Natural Digestive Support – Barley Juice
The most important step towards healthier digestion is quitting smoking, but there are also natural ways to alleviate the consequences of smoking.
One of them is barley juice. Obtained from young green leaves, it is rich in chlorophyll, minerals, and enzymes that:
- help with body detoxification,
- support intestinal flora restoration,
- facilitate digestion and reduce inflammatory processes in the digestive tract.
Thanks to these properties, barley juice can be valuable support for anyone who wants to reduce unpleasant symptoms such as reflux, bloating, or stomach discomfort.
