Aspirin has often been called a “wonder drug,” but is it really all that wonderful?

Believe it or not, prolonged use of aspirin comes with a huge list of side effects! Minor side effects include upset stomach, heartburn, drowsiness, and/or headache. The more serious side effects are much more scary and are, more often than not, caused by bleeding in the stomach or digestive tract.

Here is a list of serious Aspirin side effects:

  • Tarry, black, or bloody stools.
  • Vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or coughing up blood.
  • Severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Hearing problems or ringing in the ears.

It is not always a safe drug to take, but some people are prescribed aspirin by their doctor to reduce the chance of a repeat heart attack or to help with other medical conditions like arthritis.

Is there a safer alternative?

Chris Kresser, recognized leader in the fields of ancestral health, Paleo nutrition, and functional and integrative medicine, states that there are some good natural substitutes for aspirin — like fatty fish like salmon or fish oil, dark chocolate, garlic, turmeric, and foods with resveratrol. A change in diet may be just what you need!

Besides the serious side effects listed above, the video below shows some interesting uses for Aspirin that make me a little nervous about swallowing one again. Most of these tips work because of the salicylic acid that is found in aspirin to treat pain. However, this same acid is what can cause bleeding of the digestive tract.

Check it out!

… And to learn more about what aspirin can do to the body, check out the video below. It mentions a lot of great studies.

Who is going to talk to their doctor about a more natural alternative?

Share in the comments!

(h/t: Sungazing)