All articles about Digestive Disorders, page 4
Weight Loss Macros: Are They Your Formula for Success?
Counting weight loss macros has become a popular approach to losing weight, because you can essentially eat what you want – to a degree. In fact, macro counting is sometimes referred to as flexible dieting, or IIFYM (“if it fits your macros”). So, what are macros and should you be counting them if you want to lose weight? This article looks into the role of macros and whether or not keeping track of them is a viable way to lose weight. Macronutrients for Weight Loss Macronutrients (macros, for short) include protein, fat, carbohydrates and water. These are nutrients that we need in large amounts for energy (calories) and optimal health. Like calorie counting, macro counting promotes weight loss by creating a calorie deficit. However, it’s a bit more complicated because it requires that you hit three separate macro goals per[Discover More…]
The Vagus Nerve Explained in Plain English
The vagus nerve is one of the longest and most important nerves in the body and helps control a number of crucial functions.
It connects your brain to your gut, and can affect everything from your mood and stress levels to your digestion, heart rate and immune response.
It may also play a major role in inflammation and various chronic diseases if not working properly.
Here, we discuss what the vagus nerve is, what it does, and how stimulating it may be beneficial for both your physical and mental health.
[Discover More…]Low FODMAP Food List: What Can You Eat on a Low FODMAP Diet?
If you’ve been advised to follow a FODMAP elimination diet, a low FODMAP food list can make your life much easier.
Below, we’ve organized a comprehensive list of both foods to enjoy and foods to avoid when following a low FODMAP diet.
[Discover More…]The Gut-Brain Axis Explained in Plain English
One of the most cutting-edge areas of research involves the ‘gut-brain axis’ – the connection between the brain, gut, and microbiome and its potentially huge influence over our health.
Only recently have scientists started to better understand the gut-brain-microbiome axis and how it can impact not only physical and digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but also mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
This article investigates our current understanding of what the gut-brain axis is, the role of the gut microbiome, and how our physical and mental health can be compromised when communication between one or more parts along this axis becomes faulty.
[Discover More…]Can You Have Protein Powder On The Low FODMAP Diet? This Is What You Need To Look For
Many people use protein powders for a variety of reasons, such as weight management or to help meet their protein requirements.
It is not necessary to use a protein powder on the low FODMAP diet, however if you choose to use one, then this article will help you to find one that is safe.
[Discover More…]What Are Prebiotics? A Detailed Look At Prebiotic Foods and Fiber
You may have heard of probiotics, but do you know about prebiotics?
Despite the similarity in names, there are some key differences.
While probiotics rightfully get a lot of praise from health experts, prebiotics are important as well.
So, what are prebiotics, and how can you get more of them?
Keep reading to learn more about the power of prebiotics.
[Discover More…]Fecal Impaction: How To Come Unstuck From an Impacted Bowel
[Last updated 7th of March, 2023]
Fecal impaction is fairly common, particularly in older adults and people who are bedridden.
In fact, one study found that 42% of seniors in a geriatric ward had experienced it (1).
It’s not usually a big deal once its resolved, but untreated impaction can result in very serious medical complications. It can also increase the risk of future impactions.
So what is fecal impaction, and can it be treated at home? Let’s take a look at the evidence.
[Discover More…]Can You Treat H. Pylori Naturally? A Look At Tests, Symptoms and Proven Treatments
[Last Updated 5th October, 2019]
H. pylori is a very common bacteria.
Many people have it and don’t even realize it. However, it’s sometimes difficult to treat and can cause serious health problems in some cases.
Certain foods and supplements have been reported to fight H. pylori alone and in combination with standard medical treatments.
This article explores how well diet and other natural treatments work against H. pylori.
[Discover More…]How To “Cure” IBS: The DIY Guide To Do It Naturally
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that is characterized by ongoing digestive symptoms.
It can greatly lower your quality of life, and in severe cases, can even prevent sufferers from leaving their home.
This article looks at the proven natural ways to get on top of your IBS and reduce your symptoms.
[Discover More…]SIBO and IBS: Cutting-Edge Findings with Gastroenterologist Dr. William Chey
There’s a lot of confusing information available on managing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
Even gastrointestinal experts can’t seem to agree on the best way to approach their diagnoses and treatment.
To update myself with the latest research in this area, I spoke with Dr. William Chey, a leading gastroenterologist researcher at the University of Michigan and world-renowned authority on food intolerance.
I asked Dr. Chey about how he diagnoses SIBO, his best recommended treatment and whether or not he thinks the low-FODMAP diet is effective.
His answers have been lightly edited for clarity.
[Discover More…]A Beginner’s Guide to Ischemic Colitis: Symptoms, Treatment and Diet
[Last updated 7th March, 2023]
Any sort of abdominal pain can be frustrating.
Add bloody stool to the mix, and it can turn downright scary.
Often these types of symptoms are linked to an issue in the gut, and they may be tricky to diagnose and ultimately treat.
Ischemic colitis is one of these conditions, and it’s often confused with other inflammatory bowel diseases.
This article clears up any confusion about what ischemic colitis is and the best short- and long-term treatments and dietary plans to keep symptoms at bay.
[Discover More…]Microscopic Colitis And Diet: Beginner’s Guide To Treating Collagenous and Lymphocytic Colitis
Chronic and frequent diarrhea can make anyone’s life miserable.
This is what those with microscopic colitis deal with on a nearly daily basis.
This inflammatory condition of the colon, broken down into two forms—collagenous and lymphocytic colitis—is becoming increasingly common, with more people seeking quick relief.
Here, we explore the best treatments for both forms of microscopic colitis and how diet and lifestyle changes may be your best long-term course of action.
[Discover More…]
