Digestive Health

Could Healthy Gut Microbes Help Preserve Muscle as We Age?

Jul 30, 2019 · · Digestive Health
As we age, the strength and size of our muscles tend to decrease. This loss of muscle mass and function, called sarcopenia, is associated with decreased independence and reduced quality of life. Staying active (and purposefully incorporating muscle-strengthening exercises) is essential, but emerging data suggest that nourishing our gut microbes … Read More

Benefits and Risks of Acid Reflux Medications

Jun 27, 2019 · · Digestive Health
Heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid comes up into the esophagus. Millions of Americans suffer from heartburn, which many experience as a source of occasional minor discomfort. But there are times when heartburn should be viewed as a cause for concern rather … Read More

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Jun 25, 2019 · · Digestive Health
The lining of your gastrointestinal tract (or “gut”) is directly related to the health of your whole body. This lining forms a crucial barrier between you and the outside world. In a sense, everything inside your gut is outside of you. Only a few very specific substances are normally allowed … Read More

Protect Yourself From Pancreatitis

May 28, 2019 · · Digestive Health
If you’ve been experiencing nagging abdominal pain that worsens after eating, you could have pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). The condition occurs in acute and chronic forms, and both can cause complications—in fact, acute pancreatitis is one of the most common reasons for hospitalization due to gastrointestinal issues in the … Read More

Diuretics: All You Need to Know

May 28, 2019 · · Digestive Health
Many people with high blood pressure find that exercise (see our article on p6) and dietary modifications help control the condition. But if lifestyle measures are ineffective, medications also may be needed. Diuretics (often called water pills) are commonly prescribed as initial drug therapy, and also are used to help … Read More

Hepatitis C Screening Vital for Baby Boomers

May 28, 2019 · · Digestive Health
A new study (Hepatology, March 2019) suggests that the number of Americans infected with hepatitis C was about 2.4 million between 2013 and 2016. That’s a small decline from previous numbers: an improvement that likely is driven by recent advances in drug treatment for the disease, but also is due … Read More

Ask Dr. Etingin: Diverticulitis; Swollen Ankles; Bunion Surgery

Apr 30, 2019 · · Digestive Health
Q: Can diverticulosis cause any serious complications? A: Diverticulosis develops in weak areas along the walls of the colon; it is characterized by tiny sacs—diverticula—that bulge through these weak spots. Low-fiber diets, physical inactivity, and obesity are associated with diverticulosis. Symptoms of diverticulosis include constipation, bloating, and mild cramps. Two … Read More

Try Hypnotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Apr 29, 2019 · · Digestive Health
As many as 45 million Americans suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a chronic condition that results in abdominal pain, bloating, and bouts of diarrhea and/or constipation. It’s thought that stress may contribute to the symptoms, and many people with IBS report relief through “mind-body” therapies like meditation and cognitive … Read More

The Common Bowel Problem Nobody is Talking About

Feb 26, 2019 · · Digestive Health
It’s time to talk about constipation. Infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools is extremely common, particularly for older adults. Chronic constipation affects up to 40 percent of adults over age 60 and, in a 2017 study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing, older adults reported this ongoing condition … Read More

Prepare for Colonoscopy to Ensure It Goes Smoothly

Feb 26, 2019 · · Digestive Health
An early diagnosis for colorectal cancer is the best chance for successful treatment, and colonoscopy remains the gold standard screening test for the disease, since your doctor can remove any potentially cancerous growths during the procedure. Even so, colonoscopy rates still aren’t where they should be, according to federal data … Read More

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