If you experience acid reflux symptoms — such as chest pains, burning sensations that can pick up at night and disturb your sleep, and difficulty eating many foods — and want to find some relief, you must improve your acid reflux diet and make necessary lifestyle changes. These changes include rethinking how you sleep and even manage stress.

Also, I recommend considering remedies like adding acid reflux-fighting supplements to your diet, exercising, cutting out caffeine and too much alcohol, and potentially losing weight.

What Is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also called heartburn, is caused by acidic digestive juices creeping up from the stomach and entering back into the esophagus. It is related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the more severe form of these problems.

Acid reflux causes a burning sensation, almost like your chest or throat “is one fire.”

Most people assume that eating foods high in acid and producing too much stomach acid cause heartburn/GERD symptoms. In fact, the opposite seems to be true.

Low stomach acid and poor digestion are more likely the real culprits. These problems won’t be cured overnight with dietary changes or other modifications, but you can find significant relief fairly soon if you stick with a healthier way of living.

Because we’re all different, it’s essential to find the combination of acid reflux protocols described below that are best for you. In fact, ongoing research is focusing not just on pharmaceutical drugs for relief of acid reflux, but also on lifestyle modifications. For example, some modifications you may want to try include eating an acid reflux diet, acupuncture, yoga, exercise, weight loss and alternative therapies.

Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors

For most people with acid reflux or heartburn, symptoms include:

• Chest pains and burning sensations
• Bitter taste in your mouth
• Trouble sleeping, including waking up feeling like you’re choking or coughing in the middle of the night
• Dry mouth
• Gum irritation, including tenderness and bleeding
• Bad breath
• Gas, burping and stomach bloating after meals
• Sometimes nausea and loss of appetite
• A slew of other symptoms depending on how severely the esophagus becomes inflamed or damaged

GERD symptoms are similar to acid reflux symptoms, although sometimes more severe. The underlying reason that acid reflux/heartburn develops is due to dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Usually the LES “keeps a lid on things” by preventing acid from flowing back up through the esophagus.

While the stomach has a built-in lining that protects it from feeling “burned” due to the presence of acid, the esophagus does not. Because it’s not shielded like the stomach is, the esophagus can start to erode and develop complications over time when acid reflux isn’t treated. As a result, tissue scarring and even formation of esophageal cancer in severe cases may occur.

While people develop these digestive disorders for different reasons, causes of acid reflux that contribute to painful symptoms for many people include:

• Eating foods too fast, without chewing properly or taking time to digest. In fact, in our fast-paced society, this is believed to be one of the most common causes of occasional acid reflux/heartburn.
• Overeating, which taxes the digestive system and adds pressure to the stomach
• Eating only one two big meals per day, rather than spacing meals out
• Obesity and being overweight
• Older age, which affects acid production
• History of hiatal hernias
• Pregnancy
• Consuming certain foods that tend to aggravate the digestive system, including processed foods, sugary snacks, refined oils, fried foods and processed meats
• Taking certain prescription medications, including repeat antibiotics or those used to treat high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, heart problems and osteoporosis
• High amounts of chronic stress
• Deficiencies in certain nutrients
• Smoking, alcohol and high caffeine use

Problems with Conventional Treatments

Acid reflux, heartburn and GERD are usually treated with perscriptions or over-the-counter drugs to lower pain. Sometimes these are used when symptoms are already beginning to flare up, while in other cases they are taken daily to prevent symptoms.

The three main types of medicines to treat acid reflux symptoms or those caused by GERD are antacids, histamine type 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). In the past, you may have taken some of these products and pills to resolve your symptoms.

In fact, acid reflux/GERD drugs have been found to contribute to symptoms like poor digestion, IBS, depression, anemia and fatigue. Long-term use of gastric acid suppression, like PPIs or antacid medications, are even associated with an increased risk of C. difficile infections.

As a result, serious problems that can develop include diarrhea, inflamed intestines and bleeding ulcers.

Patients who are at the greatest risk for side effects from PPIs include the elderly, those with certain chronic medical conditions and those taking broad spectrum antibiotics. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned patients taking these drugs that they should immediately contact their health care professionals and seek care if they develop diarrhea that does not improve.

Acid Reflux Diet

Virtually every research study done on GERD and acid reflux points to a poor, processed diet as a contributing factor. On top of that, it’s easy to overeat processed foods and in the process to neglect mindful eating practices.

While everyone’s gut is different and we all react to various foods in our own unique ways, there are common food sensitivities that seem to trigger acid reflux in many people. Be sure to focus on cutting out these “repeat offenders” from your diet first.

For good digestive health and relief from pain, it’s important to select organic foods free from GMOs as often as possible. Increasing fiber intake, supporting healthy bacteria with probiotic-rich foods and supplements, reducing grains, and eating high-quality protein will also help protect the digestive tract.

Additionally, these changes to your diet reduce risk factors like inflammation, obesity and complications tied to serious chronic diseases.

Here are the acid reflux diet foods that can help improve acid reflux and treat GERD:

• Kefir and yogurt help balance healthy bacteria in the stomach, aiding in digestion and soothing the digestive tract. Select products that have live and active cultures that have been fermented for 24 hours.
• Bone broth made from grass-fed beef, slow cooked to extract essential compounds, including collagen, glutamine, proline and glycine.
• Fermented vegetables, including kimchi and sauerkraut.
• Kombucha packed with healthy bacteria and probiotics.
• Apple cider vinegar helps balance stomach acid and lessen the symptoms of acid reflux. Mix one tablespoon of raw apple cider vinegar with a cup of water, and drink five minutes prior to eating.
• Coconut water is high in potassium and electrolytes that help to keep the body hydrated. Sip coconut water throughout the day, and drink a glass before bed to help keep acid reflux at bay. Coconut water can also be made into kefir, which adds additional healthy probiotics into the stomach that individuals with acid reflux desperately need.
• Coconut oil is a great source of healthy fat that’s also anti-inflammatory. Try to consume one tablespoon of coconut oil daily. For example, spread it on sprouted grain bread, or incorporate into other foods. The lauric acid and other natural compounds help fight inflammation, boost immunity and kill candida.
• Green leafy vegetables
• Artichokes
• Asparagus
• Cucumbers
• Pumpkin and other squash
• Wild-caught tuna and salmon
• Healthy fats, including coconut oil and ghee
• Raw cow’s milk cheese
• Almonds
• Honey

Many of these foods are included in the GAPS diet, a dietary plan I recommend for people with digestive problems that focuses on whole foods. The GAPS diet can be helpful for treating conditions like IBS, leaky gut, ADHD and many other conditions besides acid reflux.

In fact, GAPS is a diet rich in fresh, organic vegetables, free-range chicken, grass-fed beef and bone broth. It also incorporates healthy herbs or plants, such as aloe vera, parsley, ginger and fennel, which can soothe the digestive tract.

Foods to Avoid

As mentioned briefly above, certain foods are known to cause acid reflux symptoms more than others. These foods, which are said to “fan the flames” of acid reflux, include meaty foods, fast food, processed cheeses, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine.

Here are foods to avoid on an acid reflux diet that commonly make acid reflux symptoms worse:

• Alcohol. While some people feel OK having small amounts of alcohol in moderation, others find beer, liquor and wine to be some of the worst culprits. Consume small amounts at a time along with plenty of water to test how you react. Also, it helps to avoid alcohol close to bedtime or when eating other foods that can trigger symptoms.
• Caffeine. Drinks like coffee, tea and energy drinks can irritate an inflamed esophagus and alter how the sphincter works.
• Carbonated beverages. These include soft drinks, alcohol, energy drinks, even seltzer or sparkling water, etc.
• Sugar and artificial sweeteners.Both are the cause of inflammation in many cases and can lead to overeating, fast eating and weight gain.
• Fried foods. Fatty foods tend to sit in the stomach for a long time and are hard to digest properly. As a result, this can trigger surplus acid production.
• Processed foods made with lots of salt, corn and potato. These includes chips, crackers, cereals, etc. A very high percentage of packaged products are made with some type of processed corn ingredient, so read ingredient labels, and try to consume more organic “whole foods” instead. Too much sodium is another big problem that is linked to consumption of packaged products. One Swedish study that followed more than 1,000 people found that those who consumed a high-sodium diet have significantly higher rates of acid reflux.
• Chocolate. Many people find that cutting out cocoa/chocolate from their diets helps improve symptoms. Considering many chocolate products contain processed fats, caffeine and sugar (a “triple whammy”), it’s one of the worst offenders.
• Dairy products. Not every person has a negative reaction to dairy foods, like yogurt or cheese, but some do. Milk products contain calcium, sugar and usually fat, which can all trigger the release of more acid from the stomach.
• Vegetable oils, including canola oil. Processed oils, like fried and fatty foods, are found in lots of packaged snacks that can trigger inflammation.
• Spicy foods. Spices like cayenne, chili, cinnamon or pepper are other types of ingredients that can be generally very healthy. However, spicy foods are known to worsen the burning sensation associated with acid reflux in some patients. Since spices affect everyone differently, test your own symptoms to see how you feel when consuming them. Instead, blander foods made with less spice might be better options if your symptoms get worse.
• Tomatoes, tomato products and onions. Although they are healthy in general, these vegetables can trigger symptoms in certain people, especially when eaten in large amounts (such as lots of tomato sauce).
• Citrus fruits and juices. Citrus fruits are somewhat high in acid and make symptoms worse.
• Creamy/oily prepared salad dressings.
• Mint and peppermint. Mint products seem to make symptoms worse because they lower pressure in the esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to rise.
• Processed grains.

Other Natural Remedies

1. Supplements for Acid Reflux Symptoms

In addition to eating a healthy acid reflux diet of foods that help to soothe the symptoms of acid reflux and GERD, it’s important to add natural supplements to your diet.

• Digestive enzymes. Take one or two capsules of a high-quality digestive enzyme at the start of each meal. These enzymes help foods fully digest and nutrients absorb properly.
• Probiotics. Take 25–50 billion units of high-quality probiotics daily. Adding healthy bacteria helps balance the digestive tract and crowd out bad bacteria that can lead to indigestion, leaky gut and poor absorption of nutrients.
• HCL with pepsin. Take one 650-milligram pill prior to each meal. Add additional pills as necessary to keep uncomfortable symptoms at bay.
• Chamomile tea. Sip one cup of chamomile tea prior to bed. Chamomile tea helps reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, supporting healthy functioning.
• Ginger tea. Boil a one-inch piece of fresh ginger in 10 ounces of water for 10 minutes. Sip after meals or prior to bed. Ginger is used for digestive support around the globe. If you don’t have fresh ginger on hand, a high-quality ginger supplement in capsule form taken at the onset of symptoms can help soothe symptoms.
• Papaya leaf tea. Papain, an enzyme in papaya, aids in digestion by breaking down proteins. If fresh, organic, non-GMO papaya is not available, organic papaya leaf tea is a good alternative. Eat one cup of fresh papaya at the onset of acid reflux symptoms, or sip a cup of tea prior to bed.
• Magnesium complex supplement. Take 400 milligrams of a high-quality magnesium supplement twice per day.
• L-Glutamine. Take five grams of glutamine powder twice per day with meals. Numerous research studies show that it helps treat leaky gut and benefits both ulcerative colitis and IBS.

2. Essential Oils

Lemon and lemon essential oil can be helpful for controlling acid reflux in some patients, although not everyone responds to this in the same way. (Some have a hard time with citrus products, at least initially.) You can try consuming lemon juice along with a slice of fresh ginger in your water each day.

You can also add a drop or two of lemon essential oil to water or place one drop of therapeutic-grade, pure oil on your tongue, swishing and swallowing.

3. Change the Way You Eat and Chew

• Don’t overeat. Eat smaller meals to allow foods to properly digest. Large meals and overeating put extra pressure on the sphincter, which in turn can result in regurgitation of acid and undigested foods.
• Don’t consume food three hours prior to bed. Allow your stomach to digest the foods from your last meal, and sip an herbal tea to soothe digestive upset.
• Chew foods thoroughly. Most people today don’t chew their food enough. Remember, digestion starts in the mouth! The more you break down foods prior to swallowing, the easier time your stomach will have digesting them.
• Wear comfortable clothing after eating. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and belts, especially during mealtime. These can make symptoms, pressure and pain worse.

4. Other Lifestyle Changes and Tips

Treating acid reflux and GERD requires a multi-prong approach. Lifestyle changes like eating a healthy acid reflux diet, avoiding food triggers and taking the right supplements can all really help.

In addition, a high percentage of sufferers find relief from making other changes to how and when they eat, along with to how they rest and move their bodies.

Here are tips that can reduce the onset of acid reflux symptoms by decreasing common triggers:

• Sleep on your side, and raise your head. Try to lift the head of your bed four to six inches, since laying totally flat down in bed might make symptoms worse. Use blocks to raise the bed, not just pillows. This is better than just propping up your head with pillows, which can cause neck problems. In fact, raising your head at night can help keep acid in the stomach and relieve symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. As a result, there is ongoing research testing sleep positions and their effects on acid reflux symptoms at night.
• Don’t bend over. Bending over from the waist to relieve pain will likely not help. In fact, bending over may even make symptoms worse by squeezing the stomach.
• Manage stress. Stress makes symptoms of acid reflux worse by increasing acid production in the stomach. It’s important to start incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine. For example, try yoga, meditation, art therapy or whatever helps you effectively manage stress.
• Acupressure. Certain reflex points at the base of the rib cage are associated with digestion and can help relieve the symptoms.
• Don’t rely on drugs. As mentioned above, prescription medications only temporarily treat the symptoms. For long-term relief, you must adjust your diet and lifestyle. If you are going to take drugs for pain, take them close to bedtime for the most relief.
• Exercise. Exercise moderately, not intensely, since studies show that rigorous exercise and running can agitate the digestive tract and cause acid reflux. Exercise earlier in the day.
• Stop smoking. If you smoke, stop as soon as possible! Smoking can relax your sphincter and cause acid to rise. Secondhand smoke can also make symptoms worse.

Precautions

Just because acid reflux is common doesn’t mean it’s “normal.” If your acid reflux symptoms interfere with your lifestyle or daily activity, affect your appetite or nutrient intake, and/or last for more than two weeks, then consider visiting a doctor.

Other reasons to get a professional opinion on treatment options include experiencing:

• hoarseness
• worsening of asthma after meals
• pain that is persistent when lying down
• pain following exercise,
• difficulty breathing that occurs mainly at night
• diarrhea
• trouble swallowing for more than one to two days

Conclusion

• Acid reflux is caused by stomach acid creeping up into the esophagus. Symptoms of acid reflux usually include chest pains, heartburn, a bad taste in the mouth, bloating, gassiness, and difficulty digesting and swallowing properly.
• Common causes of acid reflux and GERD include eating a poor diet, overeating and eating quickly, pregnancy, history of hiatal hernias, obesity, older age, and an imbalance of stomach acid.
• One of the best ways to treat GERD is to follow an acid reflux diet. That includes eating healthy acid reflux diet foods and avoiding problems foods, such as those that are processed and high in acid.
• In addition to following an acid reflux diet, other natural remedies in reaching a healthier weight, taking helpful supplements and eating smaller, more balanced meals — as well as other lifestyle changes.

The post Acid Reflux Diet: Best Foods, Foods to Avoid & Supplements that Help appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition that’s thought to affect millions of people, many of whom don’t even know it. The good news is following a leaky gut diet can help overcome this condition.

From the sound of it, you might think leaky gut syndrome only impacts digestive health, but in reality it can lead to many other health conditions. For example, according to recent research, the cause of your food allergies, fatigue, joint pain, thyroid disease and autoimmune conditions may be a leaky gut.

What is the fastest way to treat leaky gut? Following a healing leaky gut syndrome diet is one of the best strategies for getting your body back on track.

In this article, I outline specifically how a leaky gut diet works, so you can break through some of the stubborn health problems you’ve been struggling with.

What Is Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition that affects the integrity of the gut lining, which normally serves as the barrier of the intestines. Also called “intestinal permeability,” it occurs when the gut wall becomes damaged, allowing compounds to enter become absorbed into the bloodstream that normally shouldn’t.

For example, partially digested proteins and fats may seep through the intestinal lining, making their way into the bloodstream, which causes an allergic response.

Causes/Symptoms

How do you know that you may benefit from a leaky gut treatment plan? One of the biggest warning signs that you may have leaky gut is that you’re experiencing multiple food sensitivities.

Allergic responses caused by a leaky gut don’t necessarily mean you’ll break out in a rash all over your body, but it can lead to various other symptoms. Some potential symptoms linked to leaky gut can include:

• Bloating
• Food sensitivities
• Thyroid conditions
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Headaches
• Skin issues, like rosacea and acne
• Digestive problems
• Weight gain

If not repaired, intestinal permeability can potentially lead to more severe health issues, such as:

• inflammatory bowel disease or IBS
• arthritis
• eczema
• psoriasis
• depression
• anxiety
• migraine headaches
• muscle pain
• chronic fatigue

According to research published in the Journal of Diabetes, there is a strong body of evidence suggesting that leaky gut syndrome is related to certain autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes.

Additionally, another problem with leaky gut is that it can cause malabsorption of vital minerals and nutrients, including zinc, iron and vitamin B12.

Experts recommend that you take a leaky gut test to better identify if this may be a root cause of your symptoms and to help pinpoint potential contributing factors.

What causes leaky gut?

Leaky gut can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• a poor diet (low in fiber and high in sugar)
• smoking
• alcohol use
• frequent use of some medications
• genetic predisposition

Some potential dietary causes include:

• Lectins — These are found in many foods, not just grains, and when consumed in smaller amounts, your body normally does just fine with them. But foods that have large amounts of lectins are more problematic. Some of the lectins and foods that cause leaky gut include wheat, rice, spelt and soy.
• Conventional cow’s milk — This is another food that can cause leaky gut. The component of dairy that harms your gut is the protein A1 casein. Also, the pasteurization process destroys vital enzymes, making sugars like lactose very difficult to digest. For this reason, I only recommend buying raw dairy and from A2 cows, goats, sheep or buffalo.
•  Gluten-containing grains — These may damage your intestinal lining depending on how well you tolerate them. Once your gut is healthy, you can likely add back in grains that have been fermented and sprouted to eat occasionally.
• Sugar — Added sugar is another substance that can wreak havoc on your digestive system when eaten in large amounts. Sugar can feed the growth of yeast, candida and bad bacteria, which further damages your gut. Bad bacteria actually creates toxins called exotoxins that damage healthy cells and can eat a hole into your intestinal wall.

Leaky Gut Diet Foods to Eat

If you suffer from leaky gut syndrome, you’re overdue to consider adopting a leaky gut diet. Such a diet contains foods that support healing because they are easy to digest and can help repair the lining of the intestines.

Here are the best foods to include in a leaky gut syndrome diet:

• Bone Broth — Bone broth contains collagen and the amino acids proline and glycine that can help heal your damaged cell walls. I’ve had many of my patients do a bone broth fast for three days to help treat leaky gut and autoimmune disease.
• Raw Cultured Dairy — Raw dairy contains beneficial bacteria when fermented and short-chain fatty acids that can help heal the gut. Pastured kefir, yogurt, amasai, butter and raw cheese are some of the best options.
• Fermented Foods — In addition to fermented dairy products, fermented vegetables are some of the healthiest probiotic foods. They contain organic acids that balance intestinal pH and probiotics to support the gut. Sauerkraut, kimchi and kvass are excellent sources.
• Coconut Products — All coconut products are especially good for your gut. The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut are thought to be easier to digest than other fats so they work well for maintaining digestive health. Also, coconut kefir contains healthy microbes that support your digestive system.
• Sprouted Seeds — Chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seeds that have been sprouted are great sources of fiber that can help support the growth of beneficial bacteria. If you have severe leaky gut, you may need to start out getting your fiber from steamed vegetables and fruit.
• Healthy Fats — Consuming healthy fats in moderation like egg yolks, avocados, ghee and coconut oil is easy on the gut and promotes nutrient absorption.
• Omega-3 Fats — Certain protein foods also contain healthy omega-3 fats, such as grass-fed beef, lamb and wild-caught fish like salmon.
• Fruit – Consuming one to two servings of fruit daily is a good way to obtain vitamins and minerals. You can steam apples and pears to make homemade apple sauce or fruit sauce. Fruit is best consumed in the morning and not later on in the day, and remember to keep fruit intake in moderation.

In addition to eating a leaky gut diet, you can help repair your gut with certain supplements.

In a leaky gut treatment plan, there are many supplements that support digestive health as well as protect the gut lining from further damage. I believe the six most beneficial leaky gut supplements are:

• Probiotics (50–100 billion units daily) — This is the most important supplement to take because it helps replenish good bacteria and crowds out bad bacteria. I recommend getting probiotics in both food and supplement form. By only following part of the protocol in treating leaky gut syndrome by removing the damaging irritants, you may fail to re-inoculate the gut with beneficial bacteria that will keep bad bacteria at bay. Based on available research, look for strains like Bacillus clausii, Bacillus subtilis, Saccharomyces boulardii and Bacillus coagulans.
• Digestive enzymes (one to two capsules at the beginning of each meal) — These ensure that foods are fully digested, decreasing the chance that partially digested foods particles and proteins are damaging your gut wall.
• L-Glutamine — Critical for any program designed to heal leaky gut, glutamine powder is an essential amino acid supplement that has anti-inflammatory properties and is necessary for the growth and repair of your intestinal lining. L-glutamine benefits include acting as a protector, coating your cell walls and acting as a repellent to irritants.
• Licorice Root — An adaptogenic herb that helps balance cortisol levels and improves acid production in the stomach, licorice root supports the body’s natural processes for maintaining the mucosal lining of the stomach and duodenum. This herb is especially beneficial if someone’s leaky gut is caused by emotional stress due to how it can help improve the way you produce and metabolize cortisol.
• Shilajit — A tar-like medicinal herb used frequently in Ayurvedic medicine, shilajt can protect from stomach ulcers as well as reduce inflammation triggered or exacerbated by leaky gut.
• Marshmallow Root — Because it has antioxidant and antihistamine properties, marshmallow root makes a great addition to any natural medicine cabinet, particularly for those struggling with gut-related issues.

Leaky Gut Diet Foods to Avoid

What foods should you avoid if you have leaky gut syndrome? It’s essential to avoid or greatly limit allergens and inflammatory foods when following a leaky gut diet.

Foods/ingredients to avoid include:

• Unsprouted grains, especially those containing gluten (wheat, rye and barley) — note that sprouting and fermenting grains reduces phytates and lectins, making these foods easier to digest
• Processed foods made with added sugar
• GMOs foods (GMO and hybridized foods tend to be the highest in lectins since they have been modified to fight off bugs)
• Refined oils
• Processed foods made with synthetic food additives
• Conventional dairy products
• Heavy alcohol use

Leaky Gut Diet Sample Menu

Based on the recommendations above regarding the best and worst leaky gut foods, here is what a few days of meals might look like when following a leaky gut diet plan:

Day #1

• Breakfast: avocado on sprouted grain toast topped with sauerkraut and tomatoes
• Lunch: salad topped with sliced grass-fed steak and cooked or cultured veggies
• Dinner: stir-fry made with mixed veggies and protein of our choice

Day #2

• Breakfast: yogurt parfait made with plain yogurt, chia seeds and berries
• Lunch: cooked fish, such as salmon, with steamed veggies topped with olive oil
• Dinner: seared chicken served with a mixed salad or vegetable soup

Day#3

• Breakfast: smoothie made with coconut milk, kefir or raw milk, sprouted almond butter and collagen protein powder
• Lunch: chicken salad made with yogurt and avocado, served with veggies or salad
• Dinner: steak or fish served with vegetable soup

Other Tips for Gut Health

In addition to following the eating plan described above, it’s beneficial to avoid exposure to potential “toxins” found in to tap water, alcohol, cigarettes, pesticides, NSAID pain-killer medications and antibiotics, all of which can stress the gut. However, always consult with your physician if he or she has prescribed these for you.

Another tip is to consider following an elimination diet at first. Some foods seem to be in a “gray area” when it comes to worsening or promoting digestive health. For example, some people do better with certain protein foods than others do.

You may be wondering, are eggs bad for leaky gut? What about beans and legumes?

You may choose to eliminate eggs and legumes at first and then to try reintroducing them after several weeks. This can help you uncover whether they are problematic for you or not.

In place of eggs and legumes, try meat, poultry, fish and collagen protein or bone broth protein powder instead.

Reducing intake of FODMAP foods is also recommended as part of an elimination diet, since FODMAP carbohydrates can worsen digestive issues like bloating and gas.

Conclusion

• Also called intestinal permeability, leaky gut is a condition that occurs when the intestinal lining becomes damaged.
• Not only does it impact digestive health, but this condition can also cause widespread symptoms related to inflammation and autoimmune reactions. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, joint pain, fatigue, skin issues, thyroid issues, headaches and others.
• What foods are bad for your gut? When following a leaky gut diet, avoid processed foods, added sugar, refined oils, unsprouted grains, gluten, conventional dairy and foods high in lectins.
• What should you eat if you have leaky gut symptoms? Prioritize fermented foods, bone broth, coconut, fruits and veggies, and high-quality meat, fish and poultry.

The post The Leaky Gut Diet and Treatment Plan, Including Top Gut Foods appeared first on Dr. Axe.

A lot of someone’s health can be traced to the gut — specifically gut bacteria.

In the 1670s, scientist Antony van Leeuwenhoek first discovered the complex world of bacteria. At the time, he defined it as “free-living and parasitic microscopic protists, sperm cells, blood cells, microscopic nematodes and rotifers,” according to the University of California Museum of Paleontology.

Fast-forward to today (some 350-plus years later), and bacterial microbes are still at the forefront of medical research. This includes the trillions that live inside our guts and communicate directly with neurons in our brains. This incredible finding is known as the gut-brain connection.

Globally, millions of dollars are invested in gut research annually. These studies are geared toward uncovering more about how the human “microbiome” works.

Improving patients’ gut bacteria continues to prove to be an important consideration in neuroscience, diabetes and cardiovascular disease prevention. It’s even important in tackling obesity, and that’s not all.

What other conditions are greatly influenced by one’s gut bacteria? As you’ll learn, among the many are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), depression, anxiety, autoimmune disorders and symptoms of ADHD.

The World of Bacteria Living in Your Gut

The human microbiome, or microbiota, is essentially the bacterial ecosystem living within our bodies, mostly within our guts. The intestinal microbiota is made up of trillions of microorganisms, most of which are bacterial and not harmful to our health.

Scientists have recognized for more than 100 years that bacteria in the gut are constantly communicating with neurons in the brain, earning the microbiome the nickname ” the second brain.”

Not only do most gut bacteria not sicken us, but they are actually beneficial, vital to our health and play numerous roles. Factors such as genetics, age, sex and diet continually influence the composition and profile of an individual’s microbiota. That means no two people’s gut bacteria are quite the same.

What do our gut bacteria do exactly, and how? Roles of gut bacteria include:

• Helping produce hormones, like serotonin, for example
• Aiding in the extraction of energy (calories) and nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and antioxidants
• Managing our appetite and body weight
• Digesting fiber, which helps form stool
• Controlling our moods, motivation and cognitive health
• Preventing us from catching colds and viruses
• Helping repair damaged tissues and injuries
• Much, much more

One of the most important things that “good bacteria” (also known as probiotics) living in the microbiota do is contribute to our immune systems. This protects us against pathogen colonization and invasion of harmful microbes that enter the body every single day.

So where do things wrong? Alterations in the microbiota (often called dysbiosis) can result for many reasons. Some of the most common are:

• exposure to various environmental pollutants and toxins
• consuming a poor diet lacking anti-inflammatory foods
• using toxic medications and over-the-counter drugs
• smoking cigarettes
• high amounts of stress
• exposure to harmful pathogens from other people who are sick

Gut Bacteria Benefits

“Poor gut health” might bring to mind intestinal and digestive disorders — including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and celiac disease symptoms — but these are far from the only problems tied to dysbiosis. Studies show that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is associated numerous disorders that affect us internally.

Some of these include altered hormone production, which might not always be obvious, and also externally (affecting us in more apparent ways, such as changing the appearance of our skin and body weight).

A lack of healthy gut bacteria is now tied to the onset of conditions like:

• Food allergies
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Eczema and psoriasis
• Poor recovery from seizures, spinal cord injuries or a stroke
• Metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases (currently the number one cause of death in many industrialized nations).

Autoimmune Diseases

Recently much more has been uncovered about how bacterial species residing within the mucus layer of the colon have the ability to directly communicate with host cells in the immune system. This relationship can influence whether or not the immune system remains at homeostasis or triggers inflammatory mechanisms that destroy the body’s own healthy tissue and cells.

Autoimmune disease symptoms — including diseases like multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis — all have links to dysbiosis. In fact, we now know that pathogens entering the body through toxins and a poor diet have the potential to cause microbial disruption. This can trigger both local and systemic inflammation.

This inflammation then creates a vicious cycle because it alters the composition of the gut/microbiota, reduces the barrier that the gut naturally has with the rest of the body, decreases nutrient absorption, increases permeability (also called leaky gut) and causes numerous symptoms tied to autoimmunity. These symptoms can include skin reactions, indigestion, mood-related problems, joint pain and fatigue.

Although we have more to learn about probiotics’ effects on autoimmunity, research suggests that acquiring bacterial strains, including Lactobacillus casei shirota, can have positive effects on controlling inflammatory reactions.

Depression

A 2013 article published in the journal Cerebrum states:

The gut-brain axis—an imaginary line between the brain and the gut—is one of the new frontiers of neuroscience. Microbiota in our gut, sometimes referred to as the “second genome” or the “second brain,” may influence our mood in ways that scientists are just now beginning to understand. Unlike with inherited genes, it may be possible to reshape, or even to cultivate, this second genome. As research evolves from mice to people, further understanding of microbiota’s relationship to the human brain could have significant mental health implications.

Our brains contain billions of neurons, and these have a close working relationship with the trillions of “good” and “bad’ bacteria alive in the gut. Bacteria seem to be instrumental in how our brains develop, how we behave, our capabilities of handling stress and how we respond to treatments for mood-related issues, like depression and anxiety.

It’s been found that in stressful situations, the microbiota profile may actually change itself, shifting how different bacteria interact with one another. The gut-brain relationship basically comes down to how the immune system alters the nervous system.

A 2011 study published in the journal Nature showed that feeding healthy mice probiotics helped decrease anxiety-like and depressive-like behaviors compared to control mice. It also showed that activation of neurons in the hypothalamus (part of the emotional/fear center of the brain) were greater when mice were fed infectious bacteria that cause a destructive immune response.

Obesity and Weight Gain

Each year, the U.S. population spends more money on diets than the amount needed to feed all the hungry people in the rest of the world. We’ve all gotten the message by now that we should be eating less and moving more.

Less talked about? The need to take care of our gut health in order to manage our appetites, hormones and energy expenditure.

What does gut bacteria have to do with obesity, you might be wondering? Although the underlying mechanisms are still not entirely clear, obesity is known to be associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and hormonal changes that lead us to overeat:

• Research suggests overeating and obesity might be tied to reductions in certain beneficial bacteria that populate a healthy microbiome. Certain studies have found that some obese individuals have higher levels of two major classes of bacteria — bacteroides and firmicutes. These can cause increases in inflammatory metabolic endotoxins, plus decreased mucus lining the intestinal wall and therefore more gut permeability.
• The gut microbiota also contributes to retention of fat mass, and certain bacterial gut changes have been shown to reduce leptin sensitivity (meaning we feel satisfied less easily).
• A study published in Endocrinology showed that, additionally, dysbiosis might result in reduced expression of obesity-suppressing neuropeptides proglucagons in the brainstem.

In studies using mice, researchers have found that introducing gut bacterial flora from obese mice into normal-sized mice results in increased obesity even with reduced calorie intake. The opposite also seems to be true: Introducing bacterial flora from lean mice into obese mice can help promote weight loss and appetite regulation.

Neurological and Spinal Cord Injuries

Researchers at Ohio State University found that disruption of the microbial community seems to hinder recovery from neurological damage and spinal cord injuries due to prolonged inflammation in mice.

Previous studies showed that spinal cord injuries in mice caused migration of gut bacteria into other tissues of the body and activation of pro-inflammatory immune cells. Mice that experienced the largest changes in their gut bacteria tended to recover most poorly from their injuries, especially if they were treated with antibiotics to further disrupt gut bacteria levels.

Fortunately, the opposite has also been shown to be true: When injured mice are given daily doses of probiotics to restore levels of healthy gut bacteria, they experience less symptoms related to spinal damage and regain more control over movement and daily functions.

Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD is a term used to describe hard-to-treat disorders that cause bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, and sometimes malnutrition and weight loss. Although treating IBD can be complicated and sometimes require various types of intervention, probiotics seem to help manage IBD symptoms (especially severe diarrhea) in many patients and can help with reversal of inflammation in the digestive tract.

Studies suggest that bacterial strains and a combination formula might be most effective in IBD treatment. If you haven’t been diagnosed with IBD but still have occasional digestive problems, such as diarrhea, bacterial strains including Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus GG can likely help.

How to Improve Gut Bacteria

Even if you don’t necessarily suffer from one of the disorders or diseases mentioned above, you can still benefit from improving gut health. Considering the average person eating a “westernized/American diet” doesn’t ordinarily consume many probiotic foods (plus likely lacks at least several nutrients key to gut health, including prebiotics and fiber), most of us can afford to make some dietary and lifestyle changes.

What are common signs of gut bacteria imbalance? These can include:

• Frequent digestive issues, like bloating, gas, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhea (especially if stool ever appears bloody or causes unexplained weight loss)
• Acne, mild skin rashes and other signs of skin inflammation
• Frequently getting colds, viruses and other “common” illnesses
• Stuffy nose, respiratory infections and trouble breathing
• Low energy levels and fatigue
• Achy joints and muscular pains

Here are simple steps you can take now to start improving gut bacteria:

• Consume probiotic foods, such as yogurt, kefir, cultured veggies and kombucha. Also consider taking a high-quality probiotic supplement.
• Avoid common allergen foods, which can make poor gut health even worse. These include conventional dairy, shellfish, peanuts, soy and gluten products. Processed/packaged foods, fried foods and too much added sugar might also worsen gut health (not to mention cause other issues), so work on reducing these as well.
• Eat plenty of fiber and prebiotics, which help probiotics in the gut thrive.
• Quit smoking, and reduce alcohol intake to moderate levels.
• To avoid dangers of antibiotics, only take them when absolutely necessary. Antibiotics can wipe out both good and bad bacteria in the gut.
• Vary your protein intake. It’s been found that high consumption of animal products and very high-protein diets might contribute to carcinogenic metabolites forming in the microbiota that alter immunity. Rather than making meat, eggs or cheese the center of all your meals, try to focus on variety and eating more plant foods for protein, like soaked beans, nuts, seeds and legumes.
• Reduce toxin exposure in your home by using natural cleaning products. The same goes for beauty or skin care products. Try switching to natural skin care ingredients like coconut oil, which don’t contain harsh chemicals. Avoid antibacterial soaps, too.
• Exercise, and manage stress to keep inflammation levels low.
• Introduce traditional gut-friendly foods into your diet, like bone broth, a great source of collagen, which helps rebuild the gut lining and prevent permeability.

The post Gut Bacteria Benefits: How to Improve Digestive Health From Within appeared first on Dr. Axe.

If you recently cleaned up your diet, gave up alcohol or went gluten-free and now you unexpectedly find yourself feeling worse than you did before, then you might be experiencing symptoms of “candida die off.”  Many people describe candida die off symptoms — which can include headaches, brain fog, nausea and more — as being “flu like,” or similar to seasonal allergies, because they can leave you feeling downright exhausted and crummy.

Another name for candida die off is “herxheimer reaction” (or Jarisch–Herxheimer reaction), which is a negative reaction to endotoxin-like products that are released by the death of harmful microorganisms living in the body.

What are endotoxins? They are toxins found inside bacterial cells that are released when a cell disintegrates. They cause the immune system to increase autoimmune responses and inflammation and can therefore contribute to a number of symptoms and even diseases.

You’re probably wondering: How long does a herxheimer reaction last, and what can you do to help manage symptoms? Below, we’ll cover a typical candida die off timeline you can expect, as well as natural ways to make symptoms more bearable.

What Is Candida Die Off?

Before diving in to the details about how to treat candida die off, let’s start with the basics: what candida is and why candida overgrowth occurs.

• Candida is a type of fungus that is normally found in a healthy human body in small amounts because it aids with nutrient absorption and digestion.
• When candida overproduces, though, a candida fungal infection (also called candidiasis) can develop in a number of locations throughout the body, including the mouth, ears, nose, toenails, fingernails, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. This fungal infection is commonly just called “candida” and can affect both women and men. However, it is often misdiagnosed or never diagnosed at all.
• Candida symptoms can include exhaustion, cravings for sweets, bad breath, a white coat on tongue, brain fog, hormone imbalances and more.

How do you kill candida? One way is to follow a candida diet plan, which is a low-sugar, yeast-free diet that helps “starve” candida fungus. A candida diet can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to be effective.

Can candida be cured forever? It’s possible for candida overgrowth to return if someone resorts back to the diet and lifestyle that caused an overgrowth in the first place.

Why does candida die off occur?

While getting candida under control is very important for long-term health, rapidly killing off candida in your body creates a metabolic reaction that releases over 70 different toxins. This is responsible for the uncomfortable candida die off effect, which, unfortunately, means your candida symptoms (and others) may get worse before they get better.

When you experience candida die off, this is a sign that your body is temporarily inflamed, including your liver, adrenals, kidneys and other organs/glands. Metabolites like the neurotoxin called acetaldehyde or gliotoxin, as well as proteins and inflammatory cytokines (like tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 ), are circulating in your system, which causes you to feel “off.”

The same type of herxheimer reaction can also occur when treating conditions like Lyme disease, some infections and other yeast infections.

You’re most susceptible to experiencing candida die off symptoms if any of these situations below apply to you:

• You’ve recently given up foods like sugar, dairy and gluten, especially if you go “cold turkey” and eliminate them basically overnight
• You recently started an elimination diet
• You are doing “Whole30” or another AIP diet/elimination diet/cleanse/detox-type diet that you dive right into
• You are avoiding alcohol, especially if you used to be a moderate or heavy drinker
• You are taking medications, such as antifungals or antibiotics, which affect your gut microbiome

Candida Die Off Timeline

When does candida die off start? Symptoms of candida die off can emerge within several days or weeks of you making dietary changes or taking certain supplements/medications.

How long does candida die off last? Candida die off symptoms usually clear up in three to 10 days.

After symptoms start, within just a few weeks you should notice an increase in energy and focus as well as relief from other symptoms as endotoxins are cleared from the body.

Die Off Symptoms

The most common candida die off symptoms include:

• Impaired brain function
• Headache
• Digestive issues, like bloating, gas, constipation, nausea and changes in bowel movements
• Fatigue
• Irritability and anxiety
• Dizziness
• Sweating and fever
• Sinus infection, stuffy nose and sore throat
• Skin breakouts (not limited to face), skin rash and itching
• Insomnia
• Chills and aches
• Swollen glands
• Soreness near your liver/abdomen

6 Ways to Manage Candida Die Off

1. Make Diet Changes Gradually

While making the switch to a clean, healthy eating plan is no doubt a smart move, you may be better off making changes gradually rather than suddenly starting an extreme detox diet or cleanse. Some practitioners who treat candida recommend gradually transitioning to a diet that includes less sugar and fewer carbs each day, rather than suddenly going sugar- and grain-free.

If you’re taking a high-dose probiotic or antifungal, you may want to try reducing your dosage to help lower the amount of toxins being released into your body.

That being said, some people will do best if they jump right into a candida cleanse and diet. It’s ultimately an individual choice and depends on your reaction. Be sure to consult with a certified dietician or nutritionist before making dietary changes.

2. Keep Eating a Clean Candida Diet

You may be tempted to call it quits and return to your old way of eating. However, in the long term, this is only going to make the underlying issue of candida fungal overgrowth worse.

Continue eating a diet that’s high in protein and high-fiber vegetables, and limit grains, flour, fruits, sugar and alcohol (the top offenders that cause candida).

Some of the best foods to eat at this time in order to keep clearing the body of excess candida and endotoxins are:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Sauerkraut and other fermented vegetables
• Green veggies and green drinks
• Coconut oil
• Manuka honey
• Garlic
• Ground chia and flaxseeds
• Unsweetened cranberry juice
• Cultured dairy
• Spices like turmeric and cinnamon

Your meals should include lots of fresh, organic vegetables (ideally that have been steamed), but limit starchy vegetables for a period of time, like carrots, radishes, beets, sweet potatoes and white potatoes. You can also eat salads made with leafy greens or bitter greens topped with just a bit of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).

Continue to consume fermented vegetables and kefir to help your body stay in balance and keep the candida at bay.

Also, be sure to drink lots of water to help your body expel the endotoxins in your system.

3. Take Supplements That Support Your Immune System

The supplements below are useful for managing candida diet off symptoms because they replenish beneficial bacteria in your gut, reduce inflammation and help move endotoxins out of your system:

• Glutathione, alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and n-acetyl cysteine (NAC).
• Curcumin, which is an anti-inflammatory component of turmeric
• Quercetin, an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation
• Ecklonia cava (brown seaweed extract), which helps fight oxidative stress
• Molybdenum, which is a mineral that helps break down proteins and other substances. It is useful for those experiencing die off. Your body needs it to produce enzymes that convert the neurotoxin acetaldehyde into acetic acid.
• Probiotics (50 billion units daily), or healthy bacteria, which can help reduce the presence of yeast
• Bentonite clay, which can help surround the toxins and efficiently remove them
• Milk thistle, which supports your liver as it filters out toxins
• Pancreatic digestive enzymes. Dr. Jill Carnahan, who helps patients treat candida and die off, recommends pancreatic enzymes to help with digestion (but not fungal- or plant-based enzymes).
• Garlic (2 caps or cloves daily), which helps fight fungal infections and boosts the immune system
• Vitamin C (1,000 milligrams, 2–3 times daily), which supports immune function, helps support health of the skin and helps fight off infections
• Magnesium, to help treat constipation and keep the bowels moving. Drinking lots of water and consuming flaxseeds daily can also help with constipation, and if necessary, an enema is an option for fast relief.
• Adaptogen herbs, such as astragalus and ashwagandha, that build the body’s defenses against stress, fatigue and illness
• Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation

Do probiotics kill candida? While taking a probiotic supplement and/or eating probiotic foods likely won’t be enough to get rid of candida overgrowth, in most cases it can help.

Probiotics are especially beneficial if candida has become overgrown following use of antibiotics, which wipe out healthy bacteria in the gut that keep candida in check. Even if you aren’t sure if you necessarily have candida, probiotics can help with digestion, reduce inflammation, boost your immunity and more.

On the other hand, some practitioners feel that eating lots of fermented foods may be problematic when someone has candida or candida die off, because these help feed not only healthy bacteria, but also unhealthy bacteria too. If you find that taking a probiotic supplement/eating fermented foods makes symptoms worse, reduce or eliminate for several weeks to see if things improve.

4. Help Speed up the Process with Essential Oils

A number of essential oils can help kill a variety of parasites and fungi, including candida, while also supporting your immune system. These oils include:

• Clove oil and oregano oil (taken internally)
• Myrrh oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil (can be rubbed onto the skin to help with candida die off rashes, itching, etc.)

Oregano oil is naturally antibacterial and antifungal. You can use two drops of oregano oil three times daily for seven days to help control candida. Note that essential oils should only be taken internally for 10 days or less.

For oral thrush/a white coating on your tongue, you can combine three drops of clove oil with one tablespoon of coconut oil, and then swish the mixture in your mouth for 20 minutes before swallowing. Rub frankincense oil and peppermint oil onto your temples to help with a headache.

To treat a candida die off rash and itching, try mixing a couple drops of lavender oil and/or tea tree oil with coconut oil before applying to the skin.

5. Reduce Stress and Your Exposure to Toxins

Prioritize relaxation, rest, slowing down and avoiding anything too taxing during this period.

Do activities that allow you to de-stress, since stress can further deplete your energy, weaken your adrenals and thyroid, and cause your immune system to take a hit. Aim to get plenty of sleep, at least seven to nine hours per night.

Find some time to do self-care practices like walking, yoga, skin brushing, acupuncture, massage or using a sauna. All of these are great for promoting relaxation, increasing circulation and supporting your lymphatic system.

If you’re dealing with candida die off aches and pains, try sitting in an Epsom salt or magnesium chloride bath, using a sauna, gently stretching, applying a heat pack, and/or getting a massage.

Also steer clear of cigarettes or secondhand smoke, alcohol, too much caffeine, and any unnecessary medications. Additionally, you can reduce toxin exposure by avoiding the use of toxic body products, avoiding fish/seafood contaminated with heavy metals and avoiding environmental pollutants as much as possible.

6. Keep an Eye on Symptoms

If you have chronic or unusually persistent candida and candida die off symptoms, you should consult your health care provider. This could be a sign of an underlying illness, such as diabetes or immune system dysfunction.

If you aren’t feeling better within several weeks of your symptoms starting, be sure to rule out other contributing problems via a blood test, exam, etc.

Final Thoughts

• When candida overproduces, a candida fungal infection can develop, which can occur in the mouth, ears, nose, toenails, fingernails, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Treating this infection causes endotoxins to accumulate in the body, which is referred to as “candida die off.”
• Even though candida die off symptoms — like nausea, fatigue, brain fog, skin rashes and headaches — are unpleasant, going back to your old habits and ways of eating will likely just bring the candida back all over again.
• How long do candida die off symptoms last? You can expect symptoms of candida die off to typically last between three to 10 days. You should feel better within several weeks, which will hopefully make it all worth it.
• To help manage candida die off, keep eating a candida diet, rest, use essential oils and look into anti-inflammatory supplements.

The post What Is Candida Die Off? 6 Ways to Manage Symptoms appeared first on Dr. Axe.

The Western diet and lifestyle are linked to a growing number of digestive diseases. The health of your digestive system has a lot to do with lifestyle, since it’s in part determined by the food you eat, the amount of exercise you get and your stress level throughout the day.

By better understanding the digestive system process and learning some helpful tips, you can not only boost the health of your digestive system, but you can naturally help yourself to overcome many digestive issues.

What Is the Digestive System?

What are the four types of digestive systems? The four basic types of digestive systems in animals are monogastric, avian, ruminant and pseudo-ruminant.

The human digestive system is monogastric. A basic monogastric digestive system definition is a simple single-chambered stomach rather than a more complex multi-chambered stomach.

The digestive system is one of 11 major human body systems. It is a group of organs that work together to convert food into energy and basic nutrients that feed the entire body and the foundation of good health.

This amazing system includes a combination of nerves, hormones, bacteria, blood and the organs of the digestive system that work together to complete the intricate task of digesting the foods and liquids that we consume every day.

What is the job of the digestive system? What is the process of digestion?

The digestive system interacts with all other body systems — this includes the nervous, endocrine and immune systems.

Did you know that digestion actually begins in the brain? The hypothalamus, which is involved in metabolic processes, stimulates appetite. When you eat, your brain decides how you will digest that food – it will respond with stress or ease, depending on the health of your organs and your state of mind.

How long does it take for your body to digest food? The time frame can vary from person to person, but typically it takes around six to eight hours for the food you eat to pass through your stomach and small intestine to the large intestine (colon).

Some studies have shown that this transit time tends to be shorter for men and longer for women.

There are a number of factors at play in the digestive system. We have digestive juices that contain enzymes that speed up the chemical reactions in the body and break down food into nutrients.

There are also cells in the lining of the stomach and small intestine. These cells produce and release hormones that stimulate digestive juices and regulate appetite.

We also have nerves that control the digestive system. They connect the digestive system organs to the brain and spinal cord as well as release chemicals that stimulate relaxing or contracting muscles.

We have nerves within the gastrointestinal tract that are triggered when there is food present, and this allows our digestive system to work properly.

Role of Digestive Organs

What are the body parts involved in the digestive system? If you look at a digestive system diagram, you’ll see that there are a lot of key parts.

Let’s take a look at the digestive system organs and functions:

Mouth — The simple act of chewing breaks food into pieces that are more easily digested, and saliva mixes with the food to begin the process of breaking it down into a form that the body can absorb and use. When you swallow, your food pushes into the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Once swallowing begins, it becomes involuntary and proceeds under the control of the esophagus and brain.

Spleen — The spleen is a brown, flat, oval-shaped lymphatic organ that filters and stores blood to protect the body from infections and blood loss. The spleen is in charge of cleaning impurities from the blood, destroying old red blood cells and storing blood in case of emergency, such as an injury.

Stomach — The stomach acts as a storage tank for food so the body has time to digest large meals properly. This central organ not only holds the food, but it also works as a mixer and grinder. The stomach contains hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes that continue the digestion of food that began in the mouth.

Enzymes and acids mix with the food that has already begun to break down in the mouth and esophagus, and it turns into a liquid called “chyme.” The word “chyme” comes from the Greek meaning of juice. It’s a semi-fluid mass that is expelled by the stomach and sent to the intestines during digestion.

In the stomach, hydrochloric acid destroys harmful bacteria and alters enzymes to begin digesting protein.

Hydrochloric acid is a clear, colorless and highly pungent solution of hydrogen chloride in water. It’s a corrosive mineral acid that serves as a digestive fluid and breaks down unwanted bacteria.

After it does its job, food is the consistency of a liquid or paste, and it’s ready to move to the small intestine for the next step of this complex process.

Liver — What does the liver do? The liver is the second largest organ in the body, and it has many different functions.

The main function of the liver in digestion is the production of bile and its release into the small intestine. The liver makes and secretes bile, which helps enzymes in the body break down fats into fatty acids. The liver also cleanses and purifies the blood that is coming from the small intestine.

After you absorb nutrients through your small intestine, it then enters the bloodstream. This blood is sent to the liver for filtering and detoxification.

The liver has the amazing ability to break down and store amino acids, synthesize and metabolize fats and cholesterol, store glucose, detoxify the blood, and regulate internal functions.

Gallbladder — The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that is used to store and recycle excess bile from the small intestine so it can be reused for the digestion of future meals. The gallbladder sits just under the liver and stores bile that is made in the liver, which then travels to the gallbladder through a channel called the cystic duct.

The gallbladder stores bile between meals, and when we eat, the gallbladder squeezes bile through the bile ducts, which connect the gallbladder and liver to the small intestine.

Pancreas — The pancreas is a spongy, tube-shaped organ that is about six inches long. It secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine, and this completes the chemical digestion of foods.

Pancreatic juice is capable of digesting lipids, carbohydrates (creating energy), proteins (creating amino acids for building) and nucleic acids.

Insulin is one of the hormones made by the pancreas and controls the amount of sugar in the blood. Both enzymes and hormones are needed to keep the body and digestive system working properly.

The pancreas connects to the liver and the gallbladder with the common bile duct. As pancreatic juices are made, they flow into the main pancreatic duct and then join the common duct, which allows the bile (which helps digest fat) break down food before it reaches the small intestine.

Small Intestine — The small intestine is a long, thin tube about one inch in diameter and about 20 feet long.

How does the small intestine function? When the chyme (our juices that are being digested) leaves the stomach, it enters the small intestine through the pyloric sphincter — a muscle that serves as a valve and prevents the regurgitation of food from the intestine back into the stomach.

What is digestion and absorption? The entire small intestine is coiled, and the inside surface is full of many folds and ridges.

Most of the digestion as well as the nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine. It transforms from an acidic environment to an alkaline one, which means the acids are neutralized.

The small intestine is lined with very small protrusions that increase the surface area of the intestinal wall, which creates a larger absorption area. Each protrusion, called villi, is covered in smaller hair-like structures, which are called microvilli.

Enzymes exist on the villi, helping further break down nutrients into a readily absorbable form. It is the job of the villi to help prevent leaky gut.

Leaky gut is when the bowel lining is damaged. This is caused by poor diet, parasites, infection or medications, and it allows substances — such as toxins, microbes, undigested food or waste — to leak through the small intestine.

The folds in the small intestine are used to maximize the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. By the time food leaves the small intestine, around 90 percent of all nutrients have been extracted from the food that entered it. Once the nutrients have been absorbed, the liquid left over passes through the small intestine and goes to the large intestine, or colon.

Colon — The colon, or large intestine, is a long, thick tube that is about 2.5 inches in diameter and five feet long. It wraps around the border of the small intestine.

Colon or large intestine function is the final stage of the digestive process. Once the juices (that used to be your food) leave your small intestine, they enter your large intestine. At this point, most of the nutrient absorption has happened, but water, fat-soluble vitamins and minerals can be absorbed in the colon as well.

The naturally present bacteria in your colon will continue to help with digestion. These gut bacteria are called flora.

Flora break down waste and extract small amounts of nutrients (whatever is left). The waste that is left over will exit the body from the colon by means of peristalsis (peristalsis definition: contractions that move the waste to the anal canal).

At first the waste is in a liquid state, but as it moves through the colon, the water is removed and it becomes the solid form of stool.

The stool is mostly food debris and bacteria. The bacteria fuse vitamins, process waste and food particles, and protect us against harmful bacteria.

How long does it take to clean out your colon? It takes about 36 hours for stool to get through the colon, and when the colon becomes full, it empties its contents into the rectum, which begins the elimination process.

Western vs. Eastern Medicine

In Western medicine, the spleen is recognized for its production and destruction of red blood cells and storage of blood. However, in traditional Chinese physiology, the spleen takes a lead role in the assimilation of nutrients and maintenance of physical strength. It turns digested food from the stomach into usable nutrients and qi, which is our life energy force.

In China, entire schools of medicine were formed around this organ because it’s believed that all aspects of life depend on the functioning of this essential organ, which allows the body to receive its needed nutrients.

In Eastern medicine, fatigue and anemia are often recognized as a breakdown in the spleen’s ability to transform food into blood and energy. If the spleen is weak, then the colon, uterus, rectum or stomach can sag or weaken.

According to the ideas of Eastern medicine, exercise and a healthy diet can benefit the body only if the spleen is able to transmit nutrition and energy to the muscles, and a person with deficient spleen function will often experience weakness and fatigue.

In addition to its role in nutrition and blood production, the spleen is viewed as responsible for the transformation of fluids, as it assists in water metabolism, helping the body rid itself of excess fluid and moistening the areas that need it, such as the joints. It separates usable and unusable fluids that we consume daily.

The spleen has the power to transform food and liquids into energy, which is then transported to the organs and enables the proper function of the entire body. This is why the spleen is seen as playing a central role in nourishing our bodies and promoting development.

Digestive system organs like the spleen and the stomach work together and ensure each other’s functions. Because the spleen is where the energy of food and fluid is transformed, it’s the most essential of the pair.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the spleen is considered essential for healing because it not only affects the body’s immunity, but also the ability to maintain and heal itself. It’s also believed that the spleen influences our capacity for thinking, focusing, concentrating and memorizing.

Top 10 Healthy Tips to Improve Your Digestive System

The way we live and eat has a direct impact on the digestive system and how well it functions. By taking steps to improve your digestive health, your digestive system will function more efficiently, and this will improve your overall health.

1. Keep chewing

An easy tip that can have a huge impact on your digestive system is the simple act of chewing! Chewing is often underestimated, but it’s crucial for proper digestion.

The more you break down food in your mouth, the less work has to be done later. Your brain also needs some time to receive the signal that you are full, so take your time, and chew 20–30 times before swallowing.

Allow your stomach to prepare for the food it’s about to receive.

2. Eat plenty of fiber

It is important that you eat enough fiber to keep your food moving through your intestines easily. There are two types of fiber – soluble and insoluble.

Soluble fiber, like fiber in veggies and whole grains, draws in water and helps prevent stool from being too watery. Insoluble fiber helps add bulk to stool.

By pairing fatty foods with fiber, your body will be able to break down the fatty foods (which are usually hard to digestive) easily.

3. Drink water

Adding plenty of water to your diet will help digestion by dissolving fats and soluble fiber. This allows food to pass through your intestines more easily.

This is a simple tip that will have a big impact. Too little water will lead to a harder stool that is more difficult to pass through the colon. However, to promote optimal digestive health, some people find they do better to drink water apart from meals.

4. Exercise

Moving your body — taking walks or jogs, lifting weights or doing yoga – keeps food moving through your digestive system. Exercise increases blood flow to your organs and engages muscles in the GI tract. This is important because the walls of your colon need to contract when passing waste, and exercise can tone those muscles.

5. Reduce stress

Feelings of stress or anxiety can mess with your digestive system because your brain and digestive system are connected. Stress can lead to digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers.

To help control these digestive health issues, try stress-relieving exercises, getting more sleep or relaxation techniques, like steady breathing or meditation and prayer.

What is good for digestion after eating? Staying relaxed after eating is extremely helpful to promote optimal digestion of the food you just ate.

6. Eat warm foods

The spleen works best with the warmth and dislikes the cold, and our digestive enzymes require warmth to break down food properly. Too much cold food and drinks can impair spleen function, so eating foods that are warm makes the foods easier to digest. Try incorporating soups, cooked vegetables or teas into your diet.

7. Quit smoking

Smoking can have a seriously negative impact on your digestive system because it weakens the valve at the end of the esophagus, and this leads to acid reflux and heartburn. It also increases the risk of gastrointestinal cancers.

8. Drink less alcohol

Ever notice how your digestion is a little off after a night of drinking? Alcohol interferes with acid secretion, stomach muscles and nutrient absorption, so be careful not to drink too much.

Alcohol consumption also leads to heartburn, liver problems and diarrhea. It can wreak havoc on organ function and the success of your digestive system.

9. Lose weight

Being even a few pounds overweight can cause digestive issues. For instance, the valve between the stomach and esophagus sometimes won’t close completely, which allows stomach acid back into the esophagus.

By losing weight, you ease pressure and allow your digestive system to carry on properly.

10. Try probiotics

Besides fiber, one of the things missing from the Western diet is healthy doses of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help the immune system. Probiotics compete for space with bad bacteria, promote the release of natural antibodies in the digestive tract and can even attack unhealthy bacteria directly in some cases.

Research has found that probiotics can ease irritable bowel syndrome, prevent allergies and infections, and even shorten the duration of the common cold. Cultured dairy is one of the best sources of probiotics. You can also try sourdough bread, pickled cabbage and fermented soybeans.

Digestive enzymes are another great daily supplement addition that can really boost digestive health.

Signs of Digestive System Issues and Causes

Digestive system diseases are disorders of the digestive tract, also known as the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract).

Initial warning signs and symptoms of issues involving the digestive tract often include one or more of the following:

• Bleeding
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Incontinence
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the belly
• Swallowing problems
• Weight gain or loss

Digestive diseases that can cause some of the symptoms mentioned above include:

• Gallstones, cholecystitis and cholangitis
• Rectal problems, such as anal fissure, hemorrhoids, proctitis and rectal prolapse
• Esophagus problems, such as stricture (narrowing) and achalasia and esophagitis
• Stomach problems, including gastritis, gastric ulcers usually caused by H. pylori infection and cancer
• Liver problems, such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C, cirrhosis, liver failure, and autoimmune and alcoholic hepatitis
• Pancreatitis and pancreatic pseudocyst
• Intestinal problems, such as polyps and cancer, infections, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, malabsorption, short bowel syndrome and intestinal ischemia
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease and hiatal hernia

Top Foods for Digestion

Are you wondering, “How can I improve digestion?” Start by choosing the right foods to eat on a daily basis:

• Bone broth
• Raw cultured dairy
• Fermented vegetables and other probiotic foods — probiotics may help relieve leaky gut by enhancing the production of tight junction proteins that defend against intestinal permeability
• Sprouted seeds (like chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seeds)
• Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like wild-caught fish
• Herbs and spices
• Coconut products
• Other nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods like grass-fed beef, lamb, other fresh veggies and most fruits, apple cider vinegar, sea veggies, and other superfoods

Worst Foods and Substances for Digestion

A poor diet is by far one of the leading causes of digestive system disfunction.

What’s a poor diet? One that includes allergens and inflammatory foods, such as unsprouted grains, added sugar, GMOs, refined oils, factory-farmed meat, processed foods, fast food, synthetic food additives and conventional dairy products.

There are also seven food additives that can trigger leaky gut and other digestive issues, including sugar, gluten, emulsifiers, sodium and “meat glue.”

Another thing that can lead to digestive issues is toxin overload, which includes a high consumption of alcohol and drugs. There are thousands of chemicals and toxins we come into contact with every single year, unfortunately, but some of the worst offenders include antibiotics, pesticides, tap water, aspirin and NSAIDS.

Healthy Digestion Recipes

Here are some healthy recipes that can help to boost digestion:

• Homemade Chicken Bone Broth
• Coconut Kefir
• Secret Detox Drink Recipe
• Homemade Citrus and Rosemary Kombucha
• Dandelion and Chicory Chai
• Cucumber Salad Recipe

You can also use essentials oils like ginger, peppermint and lemon to support digestive health. As long as you have a 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade, organic essentials oils, you can add a drop or two to tea, smoothies and other recipes.

Of course, check with your pediatrician if you’re looking to use essential oils internally to boost the digestive system for kids. Also check with your health care provider before using essential oils internally if you are being treated for a medical condition or are currently taking medication.

Precautions

If you have any signs of a digestive system disorder, see your health care provider. If you are pregnant, nursing, have an ongoing medical condition or are currently taking medication, talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes or adding any natural remedies to your diet.

Also, speak with a pediatrician if you suspect your child has a digestive system problem before trying any natural treatments.

Final Thoughts

• In order to be in a state of generally good health, the health of your digestive system is of upmost importance.
• There are many human digestive system parts and functions, which all must be in an optimal state in order for the entire digestive system to function as it should.
• There are many symptoms that can indicate poor digestive health, including bloating, indigestion, diarrhea and stomach pain.
• Unwanted digestive symptoms shouldn’t be ignored and can be the result of a leaky gut, an H. pylori infection or one of many other digestive diseases.
• Your digestive system function can be enhanced by:
  • Eating a healthy diet, including lots of whole foods and healthy fiber
  • Chewing your food well
  • Reducing stress
  • Drinking enough water
  • Not eating problematic foods, like factory farmed meats, processed foods and fast foods
  • Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and drugs like NSAIDS
  • Daily exercise
  • Losing weight if needed
  • Taking daily probiotic and digestive enzyme supplements

The post How Your Digestive System Works (+ How to Maintain It) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Everyone feels bloated from time to time. Whether it’s from eating too much, consuming the wrong types of food, hormonal issues or having a condition that affects the digestive system, bloating is a common occurrence, particularly in the U.S.

As it turns out, however, it appears some people are more susceptible to feeling bloated than others, according to new research published in November 2022. Namely, according to the study, women are more than twice as likely to report feeling bloated than men — as are people with comorbidities and concomitant gastrointestinal symptoms.

Study: Bloating in Women, Men

This study, “Abdominal Bloating in the United States: Results of a Survey of 88,795 Americans Examining Prevalence and Healthcare Seeking,” was published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology with the aim “to examine the prevalence of bloating and assess related health care seeking using survey data from a nationally representative sample of nearly 89,000 Americans.”

In order to determine this information, study participants filled out the National Gastrointestinal (GI) Survey II, which was used to measure GI symptoms, including bloating. Specifically, the researchers examined the prevalence of bloat in the past week.

In total, 88,795 people completed the survey, with nearly 14 percent (12,324) reporting that they felt bloated in the past seven days. The results showed that women are more likely to report bloat than men. They also revealed that those with comorbidities — such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, chronic constipation and more — and other GI symptoms, such as abdominal pain and excessive gas, were more likely to feel bloated.

“These factors were also associated with more severe bloating,” the authors reported.

In addition, “Among those who reported recent bloating, 58.5% never sought care for bloating—29% of whom were self-managing symptoms or were uncomfortable discussing symptoms with their providers,” according to the research.

The study authors ultimately concluded:

Bloating is common in the community because nearly 1 in 7 Americans have experienced this symptom in the past week. Women and those with certain comorbidities and concomitant GI symptoms are more likely to experience bloating and have more severe symptoms. Nearly one third of sufferers who have not sought care are managing symptoms on their own or are uncomfortable discussing it with their providers, emphasizing that efforts should be made to proactively inquire about bloating.

“Other studies have also found that women report more bloating than men, and researchers have proposed various hypotheses for why this may be occurring,” said Janice Oh, MD, a resident physician within the Division of General Internal Medicine at Cedars-Sinai and first author of the study. “These include hormonal, metabolic, psychosocial, lifestyle and dietary differences between men and women.”

How to Combat Bloating

While it’s clear that having a bloated stomach is a fairly common occurrence, there are several natural ways to combat bloat and relieve GI symptoms. Here are some tips for soothing an uneasy, bloated stomach:

• Add probiotics to your routine.
• Eat more fiber.
• Consume hydrating vegetables and fruit.
• Take advantage of digestion-friendly herbs, spices and teas, including ginger, fennel, aloe vera and dandelion, among others.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid foods that cause bloat, such as sugar and sweetened snacks, artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, carbonated drinks, dairy, refined grains, legumes, and other foods that trigger symptoms for you.
• Exercise.
• Relieve stress.

The post Study: Women More Likely to Feel Bloated Than Men appeared first on Dr. Axe.

The colon cleanse has been used throughout history to improve the body’s natural detoxification processes, restore digestive health and improve someone’s overall quality of life. In fact, the use of water to cleanse tissue throughout the colon, called “colon lavage,” has been practiced since as early as 1500 B.C. in ancient Egypt.

What’s the purpose of cleansing your colon? To flush out built-up waste stored by rehydrating old stool that’s become impacted. Most colon cleanses use water to infiltrate hardened stool and loosen it up so it can be passed more easily.

The ultimate goal of a colon cleanse — whether it’s a type of enema or a colonic — is really to help the digestive organs do their job in the best way possible, managing things that get in the way and interfere with normal bowel functions. Colon cleanses aren’t necessarily needed by every person, but some people can really benefit from eliminating waste, bacterial matter and toxic poop that’s stored in their bodies.

How do you know if you could benefit from a colon cleanse? Keep reading.

Why Do a Colon Cleanse?

The colon is home to billions of microflora (bacteria) that actually make up approximately 70 percent of the dry weight of feces. Besides forming stool, the various beneficial bacterial organisms living within the colon and digestive tract are important for proper nutrient absorption, maintaining pH balance, controlling hunger and counteracting potentially dangerous bacteria. This is why a well-functioning colon is so important for overall well-being.

Are colon cleanses really necessary? While the digestive system has its own processes for removing waste, many people struggle with having regular, complete bowel movements due to various reasons like poor gut health, allergies, consumption of pesticide chemicals and inflammation within the digestive system.

Irritable bowel syndrome is estimated to affect about 15 percent to 20 percent of the adult population worldwide, while chronic constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the world, with around 4 million Americans with frequent constipation according to Johns Hopkins. These problems are especially common among people with poor diets, women during pregnancy, older adults, people recovering from surgery and those taking medications.

If you’re not having at least one bowel movement every day, this makes you a good candidate for a colon cleanse. It’s well-known that a variety of health problems stem from poor digestive health — for example, stomach pains, abdominal cramps, chronic fatigue, constipation, low energy, headaches and allergic reactions can all be traced back partially to problems with waste elimination.

An impacted bowel can easily cause sluggishness, irritation, irritability, low energy, brain fog and changes in someone’s appetite. That’s because unreleased food and waste particles can cause mucus and bacteria to ferment and form in the colon, which might result in “toxins” being released back into the bloodstream when they’re circulated. Failing to have regular bowel movements also poses the risk for problems absorbing nutrients properly, which can lead to low energy and other complications.

How Colon Cleanses Work

The colon is the longest part of the large intestine, which is attached to the small intestine at one end and the anus at the other. The role of the colon is to eliminate stool from the body that’s made up of a combination of bacteria, water, unused nutrients, unneeded electrolytes and digested food.

There are many different methods for performing a colon cleanse, which sometimes go under the names colonic, colonic irrigation, colon therapy or colonic hydrotherapy. You can also effectively flush the colon doing something like a juice cleanse (such as a homemade colon cleanse), salt water flush or performing an enema. Colon cleanses are split into two main categories: one type requires that a professional perform the cleanse, while the other involves using a solution or supplement at home.

One of the most common reasons someone would have a colonic done by a professional is because he or she is preparing for surgery or a medical procedure (such as colonoscopy) that requires the colon to be completely clear from accumulated waste. On the other hand, cleansing is commonly done at home using an enema, laxatives or herbal supplements (like senna or cascara sagrada) to relieve constipation, stomach bloating and other digestive symptoms.

Many colon cleanses work by inserting a tube into the rectum followed by large amounts of water, which makes its way through the colon. The water carries out any matter that might be dry and lodged in place. The exact amount of water or other type of liquid that’s used depends on the specific type of colon-cleansing method. Colonics, for example, can use up to 16 gallons (about 60 liters) of water at one time.

Benefits

While there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence, considering colon cleanses have been done since Ancient Greek times, according to the American Journal of Gastroenterology, there haven’t been many well-controlled studies done in humans to prove the benefits of a cleanse.

That being said, millions of people over the years have found relief from doing colon cleanses, and when done safely and correctly, they shouldn’t pose many risks. For people who haven’t found lasting relief from things like laxatives or prescriptions, a colon cleanse can finally help bring about regular bowel movements and decrease symptoms.

Studies show that bowel movements are important for removing bacteria, heavy metals or eliminating excess fatty acids from the body. A colon cleanse can also impact the nervous system positively, which is why it might help symptoms like anxiety and fatigue.

That’s right — your poop can affect your mood. That’s because nerves in the bowel communicate to the brain and affect chemical signals sent via the entire central nervous system throughout the body. A well-functioning colon, therefore, may be important for hormonal balance, appetite control, sleep and mental processing.

Meanwhile, some medical providers discourage so-called colonics, colonic irrigations or colonic hydrotherapy, claiming that it poses few benefits but only potential danger.

How Different Colon Cleanses Compare

Colon cleanses and colonics can take anywhere from 20–90 minutes, depending on which kind you decide to try. Some people react more quickly and experience better results than others, but keep in mind that colon cleanses might become more effective and easier the more often you do them. At first, it might seem difficult to insert much liquid and hold it in, but you might find colon cleanses become more beneficial as you learn how to do them properly with practice.

To understand the different options you have in regard to various colon cleanses, it helps to have some background of how different types work and affect your digestive system. First off, keep in mind that water isn’t the only substance used during colon cleansing. Various saline formulas, herbs or acidic solutions are also used to flush waste.

Here’s the basics of how popular colon cleanse techniques work:

Colonics

• Colonics have been performed for over 100 years and are done by hygienists or colon hydrotherapists. These treatments are sometimes called “colon irrigation” and are normally done at a treatment center outside the home.
• Colonics use a high quantity of water to flush the colon. They usually require the most water of all colon cleanses — for example, about the same amount you’d use if you performed 12 enemas.
• Of all colon cleanses, they’re thought to be one of the most productive and thorough, since they target the entire colon. The drawback is that they’re performed by a professional outside the home and take about one to two hours in total for each session. This can become costly since each session can cost $50 or more.
• There are several types of colonics available, including those that use gravity and pressurized machines. A gravity colonic is the most basic and uses water that enters the colon by force of gravity, as opposed to a machine. Gravity colonics are done by controlling the in and out flow of water into the rectum while massaging the abdomen to help break up stool and encourage the muscles to relax and release.
• During a colonic you lay flat on a table and the professional inserts a lubricated, small speculum into your colon, which is attached to two tubes that control the release of water in and out. Often you will be left alone, given the option to help control the release of the liquid yourself. You might also be able to view what’s coming out if you’d like to. After the colonic is over, you can use the bathroom until you’re comfortable.
• Pressurized colonics are different than gravity-controlled ones because the flow is controlled by a machine, which makes them a bit less gentle.

Colonics vs. Enemas

• Compared to colonics, which are done at a clinic and the under supervision of a professional, enemas can be performed at home in private. This makes enemas an attractive option for people who aren’t very comfortable with the idea of visiting a specialist for this matter. They’re also inexpensive, and kits can be bought at any drug store.
• Enemas work by cleansing the colon with liquid (usually water), which helps flush out accumulated waste. Compared to colonics, they’re usually milder and target a specific region of the colon (the left side, or descending colon) as opposed to the whole colon.
• It’s easiest and most common to perform an enema with water, but you can also do one using a saline solution, apple cider vinegar, hydrogen peroxide or even coffee, believe it or not.
• To perform an enema, you insert the pointed tip into your own colon, control the release of liquid, and then lay down and wait until you have the urge to use the bathroom, which might happen several times over the course of one to two hours.

Hydrotherapy

• Hydrotherapy is the term for “the use of water to treat a disease or to maintain health.” The idea behind hydrotherapy is that water itself has healing abilities, and when combined with other substances like coffee or salt, it also supplies essential nutrients like various antioxidants or trace minerals.
• The use of water in hydrotherapy to cleanse the colon is basically the same as an enema or colonic. The water helps expel waste, can relieve constipation, improve energy levels, treat dehydration and sometimes provide important minerals safely.

Are Colon Cleanses Safe?

If you’re pregnant, have active hemorrhoids, suffer from kidney disease or are dehydrated, it’s possible for colon cleansing to cause side effects like weakness or dizziness, cramping, bloated stomach, nausea, and vomiting.

When a cleanse is done too often, it can lead to an electrolyte imbalance or make the rectum susceptible to tears and bleeding. It’s also crucial to use sanitary equipment in order to reduce the risk for bacteria transfer and a possible infection.

Always get your healthcare professional’s opinion if you have a form of IBS such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis.

It’s also a good idea to take a probiotic supplement after a colon cleanse to help repopulate the gut with healthy bacteria. Additionally, make sure to drink plenty of water and consume foods that supply electrolytes, like vegetables and fruit. This helps prevent kidney, liver or heart problems, which can develop when you fall short in water, salt or electrolytes like magnesium or potassium, for example.

When it comes to using laxatives or herbs for cleansing colon, some are safer than others. Try natural laxatives such as herbal supplements like aloe vera, collagen protein, magnesium, psyllium husk and triphala. These tend to be gentler than over-the-counter laxatives, nourish the digestive tract and help produce regular bowel movements.

Always monitor your reactions and check for signs of dehydration, like muscle weakness, dizziness or excessive thirst, even when using natural supplements.

How to Do a Colon Cleanse the Right Way

First and foremost, bear in mind that the single best way to detox and cleanse the colon is by removing harmful substances in your diet and eating nutrient-dense, real foods. Packaged foods, fast foods, processed snacks and artificial ingredients (high fructose syrups, hydrogenated oils, dangerous food dyes, fake seasonings, MSG or preservatives) all make it harder for the digestive system to work properly and raise inflammation in the colon.

The kinds of foods you want to eat for optimal colon health include:

• fermented foods that contain probiotics (yogurt, cultured veggies like kimchi or sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha)
• high-fiber foods like seeds, leafy greens and other fresh veggies
• fresh fruit (especially berries, or apples and pears, which contain pectin fiber)
• bone broth
• healthy fats like coconut or extra virgin olive oil, plus avocados (very high in electrolytes and fiber)
• veggie-based soups, smoothies and salads are high in fiber and water, plus easy to digest

If having a colonic done:

Colonics should always be done under the supervision of a qualified professional who’s licensed and trained. It’s important to follow directions and instructions carefully and to ensure all equipment is completely sanitary. Colonics aren’t usually recommended for pregnant women or children or people with kidney problems or bad hemorrhoids.

What can you expect when getting a colonic? This type of colon cleanse shouldn’t cause pain or feel overly uncomfortable because the practitioner will likely use a lubricant to help insert the device into the rectum. Likely, you’ll feel some pressure during the process and need several hours to feel back to normal once it’s done.

If using an enema:

To perform an enema (whether it’s a coffee enema, one with apple cider vinegar or another formula) you need to first purchase a kit, which comes with an insert of some kind and a bag or bucket to hold the liquid. The part that you insert into your rectum is attached to a clamp that controls the release of whichever kind of liquid you use from the bag or bucket. If you’re willing to spend more money, you’ll get a better quality product that has a clasp, which is more capable of stopping and controlling the release of the liquid.

If you plan to perform enemas somewhat regularly, you can purchase a reusable kit instead of a one-time bottle. Some find that buying an enema kit that includes a bucket is a bit easier to use, since a bag requires that you hang it from somewhere elevated, such as a towel rack in your bathroom. Many people find that buckets are also easier to clean than bags, although kits with buckets can cost a bit more (anywhere from $10–$60 depending on the kind).

Stainless steel buckets are preferred by many over plastic buckets or bags since they’re sanitary and can be reused, but a bag is a good, inexpensive option if you plan to throw it away after performing the enema or if you’re traveling.

Once you have your materials sanitized, gathered and you’re prepared, follow this step-by-step guide to perform a homemade enema at home safely:

1. Prepare your liquid, whether it’s coffee, a premade solution or filtered water. Filtered water is highly recommended by most experts and might offer fewer risks than tap water (which contain traces of minerals or chemicals). If you’re using a warm liquid like coffee, let the mixture cool down to a little warmer than room temperature.
2. Choose a location that’s comfortable where you can lie down for about 15 minutes. The bathroom is a popular choice since it’s easiest to be close to a toilet. Keep extra towels and cleaning products on hand to clean up if need be.
3. Take your enema kit and place the bucket or bag at least one meter above you and the ground so it has the force of gravity to push out the liquid. Pour your liquid into the enema bag or bucket, and hold the tube and nozzle shut.
4. Locate the lever on the tube and nozzle that helps you stop and start the flow of the enema. Use a lubricant such as coconut oil to coat the tip of the enema nozzle, and then lay down on your right side in fetal position and insert the nozzle into your rectum. Try to insert it about one inch inside.
5. Use the valve that helps you start the flow of the liquid, slowly releasing the liquid into your rectum through the nozzle. Sit however you are most comfortable for about 15–30 minutes, holding it in until you’re ready to use the bathroom.

Final Thoughts

• The ultimate goal of a colon cleanse — whether it’s a type of enema or a colonic — is really to help the digestive organs do their job in the best way possible, managing things that get in the way and interfere with normal bowel functions.
• If you’re not having at least one bowel movement every day, this makes you a good candidate for a colon cleanse. It’s well-known that a variety of health problems stem from poor digestive health — for example, stomach pains, abdominal cramps, fatigue, constipation, low energy, headaches and allergic reactions can all be traced back partially to problems with waste elimination.
• There are many different methods for performing a colon cleanse, which sometimes go under the names colonic, colonic irrigation, colon therapy or colonic hydrotherapy. You can also effectively flush the colon do something like a juice fast, salt water flush or performing an enema. Colon cleanses are split into two main categories: one type requires that a professional perform the cleanse, while the other involves using a solution or supplement at home.
• Colonics are thought to be one of the most productive and thorough colon cleanses, since they target the entire colon.
• Enemas work by cleansing the colon with liquid (usually water), which helps flush out accumulated waste. Compared to colonics, they’re usually milder and target a specific region of the colon (the left side, or descending colon) as opposed to the whole colon.
• The idea behind hydrotherapy is that water itself has healing abilities, and when combined with other substances like coffee or salt, it also supplies essential nutrients like various antioxidants or trace minerals.

The post Is a Colon Cleanse Actually Beneficial? What You Must Know … appeared first on Dr. Axe.

About 200,000 people are admitted to the hospital for pancreatitis each year in the United States, and the number continues to rise. This is a very serious and painful condition that requires careful medical observation, but a pancreatitis diet and lifestyle changes can help prevent and treat this unpleasant condition.

While the majority of people recover well from acute pancreatitis, nearly 25 percent of those diagnosed will experience recurrent episodes, leading the disease to become chronic. Chronic pancreatitis puts you at a significantly increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, diabetes, liver failure and other potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Not only is following a diet for pancreatitis necessary to help recover, but it is essential to help prevent this disease from entering the chronic phase. There are some individuals who are more prone to developing pancreatitis, including those with a history of substance abuse, use of certain prescription drugs, unhealthy eating and genetics.

Light to moderate exercise, yoga and meditation can help manage the symptoms, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco is absolutely necessary for recovery. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis, the first step is adopting a healthy diet focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.

Keep reading to find out how to follow a pancreatitis diet to treat and prevent this condition.

What Is Pancreatitis?

The pancreas is the central organ where essential enzymes are produced for digestion and hormones are produced that help the body process sugar. The pancreas can malfunction, causing the digestive enzymes to activate while still in the pancreas instead of in the digestive tract.

This can lead to inflammation and pancreatitis. In both acute and chronic patients, scar tissue may form, causing the pancreas to not perform optimally or even fail.

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas resulting in swelling, pain and poor digestion. Serious complications are possible, particularly if the pancreas becomes infected.

Chronic pancreatitis is marked by persistent inflammation of the pancreas, causing permanent damage to this vital organ. Chronic pancreatitis is incurable, and certain life-threatening complications can occur, including liver failure, diabetes and pancreatic cancer.

Symptoms

When you have pancreatitis, you may experience any of the following symptoms. For some, symptoms may be mild, but for others, symptoms may be debilitating.

Acute Pancreatitis Symptoms:

• Pain in the upper abdominal area
• Pain that radiates from the upper abdomen to the back or shoulders
• Pain that worsens after eating
• Abdomen is tender to the touch
• Elevated temperature or fever
• Rapid pulse
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Chronic Pancreatitis Symptoms:

• Pain in the upper abdomen that persists or that may come and go
• Weight loss, often dramatic, without trying
• Stools that are oily and smelly

Causes and Risk Factors

There are several possible causes for pancreatitis, many of which are linked to diet and overall wellness. However, there are times where pancreatitis is the result of a physical injury, surgery or other medical condition.

Recognized risk factors include:

• Alcoholism
• Gallstones
• ERCP, a surgical procedure for gallstones
• Cigarette smoking
• High calcium levels in the blood
• Hyperparathyroidism
• High triglyceride levels
• Infection
• Injury to the abdomen
• Cystic fibrosis
• Abdominal Surgery
• Certain medications
• Pancreatic cancer
• Genetics
• High-fat diet, particularly for those with type 2 diabetes, as shown in human and animal studies

Dangers

Left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Seeking emergency medical intervention is necessary when symptoms present.

• Pseudocysts accumulate fluid and debris in pockets. If they rupture, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
• Inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infection. Surgery may be required in some cases.
• Kidney failure may arise, requiring dialysis.
• Breathing problems may develop as chemical changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
• Diabetes may occur as insulin-producing cells are damaged.
• Malnutrition is fairly common as the pancreas produces fewer enzymes, making it difficult to break down and process essential nutrients.
• Pancreatic cancer is associated with long-term inflammation of the pancreas often due to chronic pancreatitis.

What to Do If You Suspect Pancreatitis

DO:

• If symptoms are severe, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• If symptoms are mild or moderate, make an appointment with your physician.
• Eat small, light meals that are low in fat.

DON’T:

• Discount the symptoms as just discomfort.
• Consume a high-fat meal.
• Drink alcohol or smoke.

Pancreatitis Diet

After a diagnosis of acute or chronic pancreatitis, nutrition must be the first priority. The goal with a pancreatitis diet is to prevent malnutrition, nutritional deficiencies and optimize blood sugar levels while protecting against kidney and liver problems, pancreatic cancer and worsening symptoms.

Columbia University’s Pancreas Center recommends focusing on a nutrient-dense diet high in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products while avoiding greasy fried foods and alcohol. Its program recommends annual blood tests to determine any nutrient deficiencies and recommends supplementation as necessary.

The diet recommended by Columbia University is very similar to the Mediterranean diet followed for generations throughout Greece, Italy and Spain. Countless studies have found that this way of eating helps:

• lower the risk of type 2 diabetes
• improve A1C levels
• improve cognition and elevate mood
• stave off Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease
• protect against many gastrointestinal cancers
• and is associated with lower a lower risk of pancreatic cancer

The traditional Mediterranean diet may be a touch too high in fats for some individuals with pancreatitis, but it is easily modified. Yes, even healthy fats like olive oil, coconut oil, and those from wild-caught fish and grass-fed meats can be too intense for some with this condition.

Like so many other diseases, the first step it to listen to your body and recognize the foods that make you feel at your best.

The majority of each meal should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains with proteins and fats playing a supporting role.

Many experts support the following daily servings as a target:

• 3 servings of whole grains
• 2 servings of fresh fruit
• 5–7 servings of vegetables
• 1 serving of nuts
• 1 serving of lean animal protein
• 1 serving of low-fat dairy

Weekly:

• 3 servings of wild-caught fish
• No more than 2 servings of beef or lamb
• 3 servings of eggs
• 3–4 servings of chicken or turkey
• 3–4 servings of nuts or seeds
• 1–2 servings of heart-healthy sweets
• 4–6 servings of legumes

The real goal here is to provide the body with foods that are easy to digest and don’t cause the blood sugar to spike, while also keeping you satisfied. It is important to eat foods to address any nutritional deficiencies that pancreatitis may be causing.

Remember, this is a guideline. If you have pancreatitis and there are foods on this list that you know you are allergic or sensitive to, please avoid them.

Top 8 Fruits:

1. Blackberries and blueberries: These berries are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion while fighting cancer. Try this bright and nutrient-dense blackberry lemon salad that features heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
2. Cherries: Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are a perfect snack that supports weight loss, reduces inflammation and promotes restful sleep.
3. Watermelon: Excellent source of vitamins A, B and C as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese, have a watermelon smoothie for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The protein in this recipe comes from coconut yogurt and chia seeds.
4. Black plums: With a low glycemic index, plus proven to lower cholesterol and aid in digestion, plums are a perfect fruit to eat on a pancreatitis diet.
5. Red grapes: The polyphenols in grapes have been shown to help prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes while lowering inflammation. To incorporate them into your diet and reap the help benefits, have a handful as a snack, or try this satisfying grape, chicken and walnut salad.
6. Mangos: With healthy fiber and vitamin C, mangos also contain essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This super fruit is associated with improved blood glucose levels and glycemic control. As an occasional sweet treat, try this amazing mango coconut ice cream, which gets its richness from egg yolks and coconut milk and its sweetness from raw honey and the mangos.
7. Apples: Because they are naturally high in fiber, help lower inflammation and aid in digestion, apples make a quick, healthy snack. As a side dish or dessert, this baked quinoa and apple dish is both warming and satisfying, while also supplying protein and healthy fiber.
8. Pomegranate: Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is loaded with fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and K. Take a handful, and toss them on top of protein-rich hummus as they do in many areas of the Middle East.

Top 7 Vegetables:

1. Beets: Packed with essential nutrients like iron, manganese, copper, potassium and the B vitamins, beets are known to improve heart health, brain health and support liver function. Try this family-friendly roasted beets with balsamic glaze alongside your favorite lean protein.
2. Broccoli: Just a cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of one’s daily value of both vitamin K and vitamin C. Also rich with minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and promotes digestive health. For a satisfying meal, try my recipe for alfredo chicken and broccoli casserole, featuring whole grain pasta, lean chicken, kefir and aged cheese.
3. Spinach: Popeye wasn’t wrong. Spinach is packed with nutrients that boost immunity, protect against diabetes and protect against certain types of cancer. Try this mango walnut spinach salad, which combines many foods on the pancreatitis diet list.
4. Kale: A cruciferous vegetable that demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties, supports detoxification and eye health, and protects against cancer, kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green perfect for any diet for pancreatitis. Add a few leaves to a smoothie, or replace some (or all!) lettuce in a salad with finely chopped kale.
5. Lettuce: Salads are a big part of a Mediterranean diet and an easy way to ensure you meet the recommended five to seven servings of vegetables each day. Choose darker leaf lettuces and mixed wild greens to enjoy the highest levels of vitamins and minerals.
6. Sweet potatoes: Rich with beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese, sweet potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great. In the mornings, alongside a couple of cage-free eggs, this sweet potato hash brown recipe will leave you energized for the day.
7. Carrots: Beta-carotene in carrots is associated with immune system health and eye health, as well as healthy digestion, while carrots are one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet. Enjoy carrots raw, cooked or juiced on your pancreatitis diet.

Top 6 Whole Grains:

Research shows that whole grains in a pancreatic diet should be encouraged.

1. Brown rice: High in fiber and rich in manganese, replacing white rice with brown rice may be able to help lower your risk for type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so sticking with a single serving size is recommended.
2. Buckwheat: High in protein and fiber, this gluten-free grain is rich in antioxidants and highly digestible. Buckwheat flour can be used for making a healthy morning pancake, while buckwheat groats can be added to salads or made into a morning porridge.
3. Polenta: This rough grind of corn, similar to Southern grits, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Top it with mushrooms and legumes, a touch of feta cheese, and fresh herbs for a filling and satiating meal. Purchase organic, non-GMO polenta only.
4. Millet: High in fiber, naturally gluten-free and easy to digest, millet is a seed, often misrepresented as a grain. This nutrient-dense seed is experiencing a renaissance because it is so very versatile. Explore millet recipes suitable for breakfast, lunch and dinner
5. Teff: If you aren’t familiar with the Ethiopian grain teff, it’s time to introduce yourself. This grain promotes weight loss, boosts the immune system, supports bone health and aids in digestion. It’s available as a flour or grain, and you can use it to make porridges, pancakes and tortillas.
6. Amaranth: Prized for thousands of years by the Aztecs, this grain is a great source of fiber, manganese and protein. This gluten-free whole grain aids in digestive health, reduces inflammation, fights the development of type 2 diabetes and aids in weight loss. Use in place of oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 Nuts and Seeds:

1. Almonds: A distant relative of many stone fruits, the simple almond is packed with protein, fiber and a host of essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows they help control blood sugar levels, help with weight loss and may increase nutrient absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. Because of their relatively high-fat content, limit yourself to a single serving.
2. Walnuts: A real nutrient powerhouse, walnuts provide omega-3s, supporting a healthy heart and brain while helping control inflammation and blood sugar levels. For an occasional healthy sweet treat, try my recipe for raw brownie bites, which features walnuts, almonds, cacao powder and dates.
3. Sunflower seeds: Rich in the B vitamins and vitamin E as well as selenium and magnesium, sunflower seeds provide a healthy dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation, and stick to a half of a single serving as their fat content is relatively high.
4. Pumpkin seeds: Once only a fall snack, pumpkin seeds are now available year-round. With a satisfying crunch and packed with healthy fats, protein and fiber, pumpkin seeds are tasty tossed on salads or enjoyed mixed into yogurt. As a snack, it’s hard to beat this recipe for spicy roasted pumpkin seeds.
5. Pistachios: Grown throughout the Mediterranean, it is no surprise that pistachiosmake this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol and help with weight loss. Stick with one-half of an ounce as a serving due to the fat content. While they are great in pilafs and salads, it’s hard to beat a handful of pistachios for a quick burst of energy.

Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:

1. Wild-caught fish: The typical Mediterranean diets feature a wild-caught fish or seafood at least twice each week.  Wild-caught salmon is associated with healthy cognitive function, heart health and cancer protection.
2. Poultry: Lean cuts of chicken and turkey are a great source of protein. Stick with grilling, baking or poaching – avoid frying to keep the fat content within healthy levels. To help with digestion, consume chicken bone broth that is naturally rich with collagen and L-glutamine, which is shown to preserve gut integrity while altering gut microbiota (flora) to improve digestive functioning.
3. Eggs: Cage-free eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids and have less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast staple, are also great for quick lunches and dinners. Pancakes for dinner? Sure, when they are banana egg Paleo pancakes.
4. Legumes: High in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, legumes are an essential part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as they help stabilize blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. Specific beans, including lentils, mung beans and garbanzo beans, contain lipase, a digestive enzyme released by the pancreas. Try adding a variety of beans to your diet with hummus for lunch or a bowl of stick-to-your-ribs, turkey chili with adzuki beans.

Top 3 Low-Fat Dairy:

1. Greek yogurt: Choose fat-free or low-fat Greek yogurt without added sugar or sweeteners while following a pancreatitis diet. High in probiotics for gut health and protein, this dairy product is perfect for breakfast when partnered with a whole grain toast and berries.
2. Cottage cheese: Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, cottage cheese is a great snack, particularly when partnered with other foods from the pancreatitis diet list, like nuts, seeds and fruit.
3. Kefir: Known for its immunity-boosting powers and healthy bacteria, which aids in digestion, this cultured dairy product provides protein, calcium and vitamin D. Enjoy kefir as a mid-morning snack, or use it in place of another dairy in your favorite smoothie.

Foods to Avoid:

1. Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine
2. Known or suspected allergens, like wheat, soy, dairy, corn and artificial sweeteners
3. Fried foods
4. White flour products, like pasta and white bread
5. Sugar
6. Trans fatty acids in commercially prepared foods

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Pancreatitis Recurrence

1. If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, stop.
2. Eat three to four small meals each day.
3. Stay hydrated. Drink at least eight ounces of water per 10 pounds of body weight each day.
4. Meditate, and practice relaxation to ease stress and pain.
5. Practice yoga twice each week. According to a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, yoga improves overall quality of life for those with chronic pancreatitis.

The post Pancreatitis Diet + 5 Tips for Prevention & Management appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Flatulence and gas are normal bodily functions, and most healthy adults pass gas somewhere between 13 and 21 times each day. Flatulence is a healthy part of the digestive process, but it can cause discomfort and pain as gas builds up in the intestines. Expelling the gas normally relieves the pain, and there are natural ways for how to get rid of gas.

However, if the pain persists or worsens, it may be a sign of a more serious condition, and you should consult with your physician as soon as possible.

In addition to pain and flatulence, gas can cause bloating. Bloating is a temporary condition caused when air or gas becomes stuck in the abdomen. The result can be visible as the stomach, depending on the level of air and gas build up, can protrude significantly.

In the vast majority of cases, gas pains and bloating are nothing to worry about, but if you experience any of the following symptoms along with gas, seek medical attention as quickly as possible:

• Hives or a skin rash that develops quickly
• Tight throat or trouble breathing, which may signal an allergic reaction
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Blood in the stool or urine
• Pain in the lymph nodes of the throat, armpits and groin
• Fatigue
• Chest pains
• Weight loss
• Persistent or recurrent nausea or vomiting
• Trouble concentrating

If you’ve recently changed your diet by adding high-fiber foods or cruciferous vegetables, you can expect some gas and gas pain. In addition, foods known as FODMAPs as well as foods you have a sensitivity to, like lactose, can also cause gas pain.

Of course, if you overindulge in a high-fat or a spicy meal, you may experience more gas than normal.

For many, if gas is a persistent problem, avoiding the foods that lead to gas pain is often the easiest and best way to prevent recurrence of symptoms. Fortunately, when acute gas pains occur, there are a number of natural remedies that help relieve the discomfort that don’t carry the same side effects as conventional treatments for flatulence.

Read on to learn how to get rid of gas and gas pain.

How to Get Rid of Gas

When gas pains are severe and reoccur frequently, a trip to the doctor is in order. It is important to receive a proper diagnosis for the cause of the gas pain as some potentially serious conditions can present with bloating and pain.

In addition to a medical history and physical examination to check for distension, your physician will review your diet and perhaps order tests. Commonly requested tests include:

• blood tests
• lactose intolerance tests
• fructose malabsorption tests
• colon cancer screening
• in some cases an upper GI series of X-rays

If persistent gas pain is determined to be caused by an underlying health condition, successful treatment of the condition should help relieve symptoms. In other cases, your physician will often recommended dietary changes, lifestyle modifications and over-the-counter medications.

While there are medical ways to deal with gas pain, you may wonder how to get rid of gas naturally. Here are some natural remedies for gas pain.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix two tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar (that contains the mother culture) with a cup of water, and drink right before a meal. This can help relieve digestive conditions, including acid reflux and heartburn, by boosting healthy bacteria and acid in the gut.

Try switchel, a fermented drink made from apple cider vinegar, fresh ginger, real maple syrup and water. You can use natural sparkling water to add some fizz to the drink that may help you belch some of the gas in your system.

Fresh ginger is known for combatting nausea, promoting digestion and protecting against stomach ulcers in both human and animal studies.

2. Clove Oil

Add two to five drops of clove essential oil to eight ounces of water to reduce bloating and gas. It may also help other digestive problems, like indigestion, motion sickness and hiccups.

3. Activated Charcoal

Take two to four tablets of activated charcoal just before eating and again one hour after a meal to relieve gas pains. Activated charcoal may help relieve symptoms including flatulence, bloating and distention of the abdomen by eliminating gas trapped in the colon.

4. Digestive Enzymes

Take a full-spectrum digestive enzyme supplement as recommended. Look for a high-quality supplement that contains lactase to break down lactose in dairy, lipase to breakdown fats, amylase to breakdown starches and protease to breakdown proteins.

For further digestive support, look for one with ginger and peppermint, which also support healthy gut function.

5. Probiotics

A high-quality probiotic supplement can help maintain a healthy digestive tract by adding healthy bacteria to the gut. Gas symptoms may be relieved as the bacterial flora is altered.

In addition, a meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials found that probiotics reduce pain, flatulence and bloating in patients with IBS.

In addition to a probiotic supplement, add probiotic-rich foods to your diet, including kefir, yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, natto, raw cheeses, tempeh and apple cider vinegar, to improve digestion.

6. Fennel Essential Oil

Known for its digestive health and licorice-like flavor, fennel essential oil has antiseptic properties that may help relieve constipation, bloating and gas pains. Add one to two drops of fennel essential oil to water and tea, and slip slowly to relieve digestive upset and flatulence.

7. Asafoeida

Take 200 milligrams to 500 milligrams of a high-quality asafoeida supplement to relieve flatulence and gas. This powerful spice is central to Ayurvedic medicine and other traditional medicinal practices for preventing and relieving digestive upset.

It is widely used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines when preparing lentil dishes, legumes and soups. It has a very strong sulfurous odor that cooks out, making it ideal for longer cooking preparations like stews and braises.

Asafoeida is not recommended for pregnant women, nursing moms, children, those with high or low blood pressure, or those with a bleeding disorder. It is known to interact with anticoagulants, antihypertensive drugs and anti-platelet medications.

8. Physical Activity

When symptoms arise, take a walk, jump rope or try rebounding. The physical activity may help relieve gas pains by expelling gas naturally.

9. Lifestyle Changes

• Eat smaller portions of foods that cause you gas.
• Eat more slowly.
• Chew foods well.
• Don’t chew gum, smoke or drink through a straw, as any of these can cause excessive swallowing of air.
• Avoid carbonated beverages.

What Is Gas?

Gas is a natural byproduct of the digestive process that is a combination of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen and sometimes methane. Gas can be passed by burping or through flatus. These gas vapors alone are generally odorless, and if gas has an unpleasant odor, it is typically due to bacteria residing in the large intestine.

Gas can be caused by swallowing too much air or as undigested foods begin to break down. Belching can get rid of swallowed air containing oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, but as the gas moves into the large intestine, it is expelled through flatulence.

The reason gas develops and must be passed is simply that the body cannot digest and absorb all of the sugar, starches, proteins and fiber consumed. As they pass into the large intestine, the gut flora attacks them, breaking them down. This results in the production of hydrogen and carbon dioxide gases, and sometimes methane.

Having gas is common and natural, but it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Certain conditions like lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance as well as other sensitivities to foods can cause digestive upset. Learning your personal triggers and avoiding those foods and beverages that cause gas to develop in your system can help prevent gas pains and potential embarrassment.

Popular over-the-counter antacids may not relieve all symptoms and may cause side effects. Fortunately, there are a number of natural treatments for gas pains that are safe and effective.

Signs and Symptoms

Commons symptoms of gas include:

• Knotted feeling in the abdomen
• Sharp cramps
• Jabbing pains
• Voluntary or involuntary belching
• Voluntary or involuntary flatus
• Abdominal bloating
• A feeling of bubbles in the stomach

Causes and Risk Factors

Foods are often the tigger for gas, and the foods that commonly cause gas include:

• Beans and legumes
• Onions
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Red cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Artichokes
• Asparagus
• Pears
• Apples
• Peaches
• Prunes
• Potatoes
• Corn
• Soluble fiber from oat bran, beans and peas
• Whole-wheat bread
• Bran cereals
• Bran muffins
• Milk
• Cream
• Ice cream
• Beer
• Sodas and other carbonated beverages
• Fiber supplements containing psyllium husk
• Artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, including sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, aspartame and others

In addition to diet, there are a number of medical conditions that can cause gas pains. These include:

• Lactose Intolerance: A very common condition where the body cannot break down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. A lactose intolerance occurs when the small intestine stops making enough lactase necessary to break down the lactose. The undigested lactose migrates to the large intestine, and the result is often bloating, diarrhea and gas.
• Celiac Disease: This is a fairly common condition where a sensitivity to the protein gluten causes an immune system response in the small intestine. Over time, it can permanently damage the lining of the stomach, preventing the absorption of key nutrients. Celiac disease can cause gas as well as other digestive problems, like diarrhea, bloating and heartburn, but long term, more serious conditions including anemia, osteoporosis and osteomalacia are significant concerns.
• Crohn’s Disease: This is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, gas, weight loss and malnutrition. Crohn’s disease is a painful and sometimes debilitating condition that can lead to potentially life-threatening fistulas.
• Peptic Ulcer: This type of ulcer occurs when there are open sores in the lining of the small intestine. Peptic ulcers can lead to intolerance of fatty foods, burning stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, gas and bloating.
• IBS: This common digestive disorder affects the large intestine, causing gas and gas pain, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating. IBS is a chronic condition that must be managed long term, and many of the symptoms are triggered by intolerance to foods like wheat, dairy, legumes, cruciferous vegetables, carbonated drinks and citrus fruits.
• Gastroenteritis: Typically an acute condition, gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines often caused by parasites, bacteria or viral infections. It can also be a reaction to a new food and as a side effect of certain medications. Common symptoms include gas and gas pain, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
• Diverticulitis: Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the lining of the lower part of the large intestine. Diverticulitis is a relatively common condition, particularly after the age of 40, that occurs when the pouches become inflamed or infected. Common symptoms include gas, pain, vomiting, fever, constipation and a change in bowel habits.
• Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth: SIBO is a condition that occurs when there is excessive bacteria in the small intestine that causes a disruption in the digestive process. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and generally include chronic gas, diarrhea, weight loss and malabsorption of nutrients.  

Precautions

Gas pains can be mistaken for certain serious conditions, including:

• Heart disease
• Gallstones
• Appendicitis
• Bowel obstruction

Seek emergency medical attention if gas pains are accompanied by any of the following:

• Prolonged abdominal pain
• Blood in urine
• Blood in stools
• Weight loss
• Chest pain
• Persistent or recurrent nausea or vomiting
• Tight throat
• Trouble breathing
• Fever
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Pain in the lymph nodes of the throat, armpits or groin
• Unusual fatigue

Final Thoughts

• Gas is a natural part of the digestive process, and most healthy adults pass gas somewhere between 13 and 21 times each day.
• Gas can cause sharp cramps, jabbing pains, belching, flatulence, bloating and distention of the abdomen.
• While generally caused by food, certain health conditions, including lactose intolerance, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, a peptic ulcer, IBS, diverticulitis or gastroenteritis, can cause gas and gas pains.
• Conventional treatments include the use of enzyme supplements and over-the-counter antacids.
• Numerous natural treatments for gas include apple cider vinegar, clove oil, digestive enzymes and more.

The post How to Get Rid of Gas Naturally (Plus Symptoms, Causes & Prevention) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Stomach bloating is so common these days that it’s been called an “epidemic.” If you frequently deal with distention, digestive discomfort and a bloated stomach, you probably want to know: Why do I feel bloated all the time?

With most people’s poor diets, high levels of stress, need for daily medications and exposure to various pollutants, it’s no wonder they suffer some sort of bloating more days than not.

While a bloated stomach is certainly uncomfortable — even embarrassing when it comes along with gas or the need to run to the bathroom — it might be an even bigger deal than you think. Below we’ll look closer at reasons you may deal with an inflated belly, plus discuss bloated stomach remedies, such as foods to focus on and those to avoid.

What Is Stomach Bloating?

What is stomach bloating a sign of? Can it point to an underlying health condition?

Luckily, in many cases, it isn’t anything to be alarmed about. It can usually be cleared up by making some simple changes to your diet and routine, although not always.

For many people, the cause of excessive gas in the intestines boils down to:

• Inadequate protein digestion (causing some foods to ferment)
• Inability to break down sugar and carbohydrates fully (certain complex sugar compounds need the presence of enzymes to be digested fully, yet people can lack these)
• Imbalances in gut bacteria (in the digestive tract, there are trillions of healthy and unhealthy bacteria that compete, and when “bad bacteria” outweigh the good for one reason or another, an imbalance can lead to abdominal bloating and excessive gas)

Stomach bloating can however sometimes signify serious health problems lurking below the surface. For example, it’s one of the most common candida symptoms and also tends to develop when from other conditions, including allergies, hormonal imbalances, thyroid dysfunction, gut troubles and inflammatory bowel disease.

Other potential causes of bloating can include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome, especially if you’re constipated
• Digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Fluid retention
• Dehydration
• Constipation
• Food allergies or sensitivities, including celiac disease or lactose intolerance
• SIBO
• Infection in the gut
• Bowel obstruction
• Hormonal changes
• Certain types of cancer

Many different things can affect gut health, the ability to metabolize food properly and the body’s way of naturally eliminating waste. Because so many different factors can contribute to stomach bloating — including some that seem totally unrelated, like sleep or stress — it’s possible to become bloated any time of the day or month.

Contrary to what most people think, bloating is not the same as carrying around extra fat mass or even “water weight.” Fluids can’t actually accumulate in your stomach, although you might be bloated and have water retention in other parts of your body (like your ankles, face and feet) while also having a bloated stomach if you have a condition that’s causing both.

How to Get Rid of a Bloated Stomach

1. Get probiotics into your diet

“Good bacteria” called probiotics act like friendly gut bugs in your digestive tract, killing off bad bacteria that can trigger digestive issues and reactions. You can take probiotic supplements, plus acquire them from natural probiotic foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir and kombucha.

2. Eat more fiber

One of the most effective bloated stomach remedies is improving your diet, since the foods you eat play a huge part in regulating how much air and poop is trapped inside your digestive tract.

To keep things “flowing” smoothly, you want to make sure to eat a high-fiber diet, aiming for about 25–30 grams every day or even more.

3. Eat water-rich fruits and veggies

Veggies and fruits that provide water, key electrolytes and beneficial enzymes are your best friends when it comes to relieving stomach bloating naturally. Try eating more raw or cooked leafy greens, cucumber, celery, fennel, artichoke, melon, berries, steamed veggies and cultured/fermented vegetables.

4. Consume herbs, spices and teas

Natural digestion-soothing herbs like ginger, dandelion, aloe vera and fennel have been used for thousands of years to soothe an uncomfortable belly. Many herbs act like diuretics and help the body release extra fluid, while some, like ginger, can also help the digestive system release its contents and relax the muscles in the GI tract, which relieves constipation.

Try eating fresh-ground herbs of all kinds (parsley, oregano, rosemary, etc.), fresh peeled ginger root, along with aloe vera juice and herbal teas. Don’t forget that bone broth and green tea are also anti-inflammatory and great choices for promoting gut health.

5. Drink Enough Water

What relieves bloating fast? One way to relieve discomfort quickly is to drink water if you’re dehydrated. Fluids also help make sure fiber can do its job correctly.

There’s no magic number that is going to be the right amount for you, but start by having at least six to eight glasses a day. Staying hydrated is essential for beating bloating, but when it comes to beverage choices, choose wisely.

Your best bet is plain water, water infused with fresh fruit slices or herbs (like lemon, grapefruit, basil, etc.), or herbal tea.

6. Avoid these bloating foods and drinks

Now that you know what you should eat, let’s look at some of the foods that might make your bloating even worse. More often than not, some of these foods might be the culprit:

• Sugar and sweetened snacks: Sugar easily ferments in the gut, can contribute to candida overgrowth and promotes inflammation.
• Most dairy products: These include flavored yogurts with sugar and artificial ingredients, but also other kinds since modern-day manufacturing processes can remove important enzymes in dairy.
• Refined grains and grain products: Gluten is difficult to digest for many people, and so are corn, oats and other grains in some cases.
• In some cases difficult-to-digest veggies like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, onion and even garlic: These contain sulfur and certain types of FODMAP carbohydrates.
• Beans and legumes, which can promote gas
• Carbonated drinks
• Chewing gum
• In some cases, certain types of fermentable fruit, including apples, peaches/other stone fruit and avocados can cause bloating.
• Artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols: These include aspartame, sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol.

7. Get Some Exercise

Being active helps your digestive system function optimally, since it can fight constipation, keep circulation moving and move lymphatic fluid throughout your body. It essentially helps you “detox.”

Try to get the most benefits from exercise by doing something active most days of the week for at least 30–60 minutes. And skip the sugary sports drinks afterward!

Wondering if your workout can ever make you more bloated? In some cases it can, especially if you overdo it. Overtraining causes the body to go into a stressful state. This causes the the adrenal glands to release more of the stress hormone cortisol.

Make sure your exercise routine supports your overall health and makes you feel better, not the opposite, causing disturbed fluid levels, poor digestion and added stress.

8. Reduce Stress

Ever notice how when you’re nervous, tired, sad or overwhelmed, your digestion is a total mess? Stress and anxiety impact digestion in a big way. That’s because your gut and your brain communicate very closely via the vagus nerve, aka your “gut-brain connection.”

Within the lining of your gastrointestinal tract lives a network of circuitry tissue that communicates via hormonal and chemical messages to your central nervous system, called the enteric nervous system (ENS). Your brain triggers the ENS to produce enzymes, saliva and secretions to help with digestion, along with controlling hormones responsible for your appetite.

Being anxious or sad can cause changes in this line of communication. Your brain then diverts attention away from proper digestion in an effort to conserve energy and use it elsewhere.

High amounts of stress increase cortisol levels. This can alter blood sugar levels and change the way that other hormones are secreted, sometimes causing you to become overly hungry, constipated and to store fluids.

On top of this, being stressed doesn’t make it very easy to eat a healing diet and instead usually leaves you reaching for comfort foods that commonly trigger bloating. Combine a sluggish metabolism and digestive system with too many heavy foods, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

The solution? Do what you can to practice mindful eating and to lower stress however possible, including exercise, meditation, prayer and spending more time doing things you love.

Related: Does Histamine Intolerance Cause Allergies, Headaches & Bloating?

Conclusion

• Bloating is most often temporary and caused by air becoming stuck around your abdomen, making it distend outward.
• In many cases, the cause can include inadequate protein digestion, inability to break down sugar and carbohydrates fully, imbalances in gut bacteria, stress, and hormonal issues. Some medications and underlying conditions can also cause bloating, including IBS, allergies and inflammatory bowel disease.
• How do I debloat my stomach? One of the most effective bloated stomach remedies is improving your diet. Make sure to eat a high-fiber diet, aiming for about 25–30 grams every day or even more, and to drink plenty of water/fluids.
• Exercising, discussing medication use with your doctor and managing stress can also help.

The post How to Get Rid of Bloating: 8 Steps appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Most people think of bacteria within the body as a cause of getting sick or developing certain diseases, but did you know that at all times there are actually billions of beneficial bacteria present within all of us? In fact, bacteria make up the microbiome, an integral internal ecosystem that benefits gut health and the immune system.

The scientific community has really come to embrace the important role that bacteria have in fostering a strong immune system and keeping us healthy. Not only are all bacteria not detrimental to our health, but some are actually crucial for boosting immunity, as well as keeping our digestive systems running smoothly, our hormone levels balanced and our brains working properly.

What is the microbiome, why is it so important and how can we protect it? Let’s find out.

What Is the Human Microbiome?

Each of us has an internal complex ecosystem of bacteria located within our bodies that we call the microbiome. The microbiome is defined as a community of microbes. The vast majority of the bacterial species that make up our microbiome live in our digestive systems.

According to the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Colorado, “The human microbiota consists of the 10–100 trillion symbiotic microbial cells harbored by each person, primarily bacteria in the gut. The human ‘microbiome’ consists of the genes these cells harbor.”

Our individual microbiomes are sometimes called our “genetic footprints” since they help determine our unique DNA, hereditary factors, predisposition to diseases, body type or body “set point weight,” and much more. The bacteria that make up our microbiomes can be found everywhere, even outside our own bodies, on nearly every surface we touch and every part of the environment we come into contact with.

The microbiome can be confusing because it’s different than other organs in that it’s not just in one location and is not very large in size — plus it has very far-reaching roles that are tied to so many different bodily functions. Even the word “microbiome” tells you a lot about how it works and the importance of its roles, since “micro” means small and “biome” means a habitat of living things.

It’s been said by some researchers that up to 90 percent of all diseases can be traced in some way back to the gut and health of the microbiome. Believe it or not, your microbiome is home to trillions of microbes, diverse organisms that help govern nearly every function of the human body in some way.

The importance of the gut microbiome cannot be overstated: Poor gut health can contribute to leaky gut syndrome and autoimmune diseases, along with disorders like arthritis, dementia, heart disease and cancer. Our health, fertility and longevity are also highly reliant on the balance of critters living within our guts.

Throughout our lives, we help shape our own microbiomes — plus they adapt to changes in our environment. For example, the foods you eat, how you sleep, the amount of bacteria you’re exposed to on a daily basis and the level of stress you live with all help establish the state of your microbiota.

Related: What Is the Oral Microbiome? How to Balance It to Improve Overall Health

How It Works

Would you believe that within the human body there are about 10 times as many outside organisms as there are human cells? Microbes inhabit both the inside and outside of our bodies, especially residing in the gut, digestive tract, genitals, mouth and nose areas.

What determines if someone’s microbiome is in good shape or not? It comes down to the balance of “bad bacteria” versus “good bacteria.”

Essentially, we need a higher ratio of gut-friendly “bugs” to outnumber those that are harmful in order to stay resilient and symptom-free. Unfortunately — due to factors like a poor diet, high amounts of stress and environmental toxin exposure — most people’s microbiomes are home to many billions of potentially dangerous bacteria, fungus, yeast and pathogens. When we carry around more pathogenic bacteria than we should, and also lack the diversity of protective bacteria we need, the microbiota suffers.

The human microbiome is home to more than just bacteria. It also houses various human cells, viral strains, yeasts and fungi — but bacteria seem to be the most important when it comes to controlling immune function and inflammation. To date, researchers have identified more than 10,000 different species of microbes living in the human body, and each one has its own set of DNA and specific functions.

There’s still lots to learn about how each strain of bacteria affects various parts of the body and how each can either defend us from or contribute to conditions like obesity, autoimmune disorders, cognitive decline and inflammation.

Microbiome Diet

Your diet plays a big part in establishing gut health and supporting your microbiome’s good bacteria. Research over the past several decades has revealed evidence that there’s an inextricable link between a person’s microbiota, digestion, body weight and metabolism.

In an analysis of humans and 59 additional mammalian species, microbiome environments were shown to differ dramatically depending on the specie’s diet.

The flip side is also true: Your gut health can impact how your body extracts nutrients from your diet and stores fat. Gut microbiota seem to play an important role in obesity, and changes in bacterial strains in the gut have been shown to lead to significant changes in health and body weight after only a few days.

For example, when lean germ-free mice receive a transplant of gut microbiota from conventional/fat mice, they acquire more body fat quickly without even increasing food intake, because their gut bugs influence hormone production (like insulin), nutrient extraction and fat (adipose tissue) storage.

Now that you can see why it’s critical to lower inflammation and support gut health, lets’s take a look at how you can go about this.

Foods that promote inflammation include:

• Refined vegetable oils (like canola, corn and soybean oils, which are high in pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids)
• Pasteurized dairy products (common allergens)
• Refined carbohydrates and processed grain products
• Conventional meat, poultry and eggs (high in omega-6s due to feeding the animals corn and cheap ingredients that negatively affect their microbiomes)
• Added sugars (found in the majority of packaged snacks, breads, condiments, canned items, cereals, etc.)
• Trans fats/hydrogenated fats (used in packaged/processed products and often to fry foods)

On the other hand, many natural foods can lower inflammation and help increase good bacteria in the gut. High-antioxidant foods help reduce gut damage caused by oxidative stress and turn down an overactive immune system while safeguarding healthy cells.

Anti-inflammatory foods that should be the base of your diet include:

• Fresh vegetables (all kinds): Loaded with phytonutrients that are shown to lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Aim for variety and a minimum of four to five servings per day. Some of the best include beets, carrots, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and kale), dark leafy greens (collard greens, kale, spinach), onions, peas, salad greens, sea vegetables and squashes.
• Whole pieces of fruit (not juice): Fruit contains various antioxidants like resveratrol and flavonoids, which are tied to cancer prevention and brain health. Three to four servings per day are good for most people, especially apples, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, nectarines, oranges, pears, pink grapefruit, plums, pomegranates, red grapefruit or strawberries.
• Herbs, spices and teas: Turmeric, ginger, basil, oregano, thyme, etc., plus green tea and organic coffee in moderation.
• Probiotics: Probiotic foods contain “good bacteria” that populate your gut and fight off bad bacterial strains. Try to include probiotic foods like yogurt, kombucha, kvass, kefir or cultured veggies in your diet daily.
• Wild-caught fish, cage-free eggs and grass-fed/pasture-raised meat: Higher in omega-3 fatty acids than conventional farm-raised foods and great sources of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like zinc, selenium and B vitamins.
• Healthy fats: Grass-fed butter, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, nuts/seeds.
• Ancient grains and legumes/beans: Best when sprouted and 100 percent unrefined/whole. Two to three servings per day or less are best, especially Anasazi beans, adzuki beans, black beans, black-eyed peas, chickpeas, lentils, black rice, amaranth, buckwheat, quinoa.
• Red wine and dark chocolate/cocoa in moderation: Several times per week or a small amount daily.

How to Support It

1. Avoid Antibiotics as Much as Possible

Antibiotics have been commonly prescribed for over 80 years now, but the problem is that they eliminate good bacteria in addition to cleaning the body of dangerous “germs,” which means they can lower immune function and raise the risk for infections, allergies and diseases. While antibiotics can save lives when they’re truly needed, they’re often overprescribed and misunderstood.

Over time, dangerous bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, making serious infections harder to fight. Before taking antibiotics or giving them to your children, talk to your doctor about alternative options and the unintended consequences to our microbiomes that can result from taking antibiotics too often and when they aren’t needed.

2. Lower Stress and Exercise More

Stress hinders immune function because your body diverts energy away from fighting off infections and places it on primary concerns that keep your alive — which is one reason why chronic stress can kill your quality of life. When your body thinks it’s facing an immediate danger, you become more susceptible to infections and experience more severe symptoms while also developing higher levels of inflammation.

Stress causes immune compounds known as cytokines to contribute to the inflammatory response that damages healthy cells. Exercise is a natural stress reliever that can help lower inflammation, balance hormones and strengthen the immune system.

3. Add Supplements

Co-enzyme Q10, carotenoids, omega-3 fish oil, selenium and antioxidants (vitamins C, D and E) can help keep free radical damage from disturbing micrbiota gut health.

Microbiome Issues

The microbiome is a lot like Earth’s ecosystems, meaning as its conditions change, so do the organisms that inhabit it. Microbes interact with one another within the community they live in (the gut), and they change in concentration depending on their surroundings — which means your diet, lifestyle, use of medications/antibiotics and environment really impact your gut health.

At the forefront of how your gut microbiome determines whether or not you’ll deal with various illnesses is inflammation.

Inflammation is the root of most diseases. Studies show that an anti-inflammatory lifestyle is protective over brain neurons, balances hormones, fights the formation of tumors and has mood-enhancing benefits.

While you might not think that gut health impacts your mood and energy much, think again. Gut-friendly bacteria can help manage neurotransmitter activity, which makes them natural antidepressants and anti-anxiety organisms.

Instead of taking anti-inflammatory medications to manage illnesses like arthritis or heart disease, we’re much better off reducing inflammation in the body.

Poor gut health is tied to dozens of diseases, especially:

• Autoimmune diseases (arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, Hashimoto’s disease, etc.). Autoimmune disorders develop when the body’s immune system goes awry and attacks its own healthy tissue. Inflammation and autoimmune reactions largely stem from an overactive immune system and poor gut health. Leaky gut syndromecan develop, which results in small openings in the gut lining opening up, releasing particles into the bloodstream and kicking off an autoimmune cascade.
• Brain disorders/cognitive decline (Alzheimer’s, dementia, etc.). Inflammation is highly correlated with cognitive decline, while an anti-inflammatory lifestyle has been shown to lead to better memory retention, longevity and brain health. We now know there are multiple neuro-chemical and neuro-metabolic pathways between the central nervous system/brain and microbiome/digestive tract that send signals to one another, affecting our memory, thought patterns and reasoning. Differences in our microbial communities might be one of the most important factors in determining if we deal with cognitive disorders in older age. A 2017 study by the University of Pennsylvania also found a relationship between the gut microbiome and the formation of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs), which can cause stroke and seizures. Researchers observed that in mice, the activation of TLR4, a receptor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) — a bacterial molecule — on brain endothelial cells by LPS greatly accelerated CCM formation. When mice were then observed in a germ-free environment, CCM formation greatly decreased, illustrating the effects of bad bacteria and the microbiome on cerebral cavernous malformations.
• Cancer. Many studies have shown a link between gut health and better protection from free radical damage, which causes brain, breast, colon, pancreatic, prostate and stomach cancers. Microbes influence our genes, which means they can either promote inflammation and tumor growth or raise immune function and act as potential natural cancer treatments. An anti-inflammatory lifestyle can also help lower serious side effects of cancer treatments (like chemotherapy).
• Fatigue and joint pain. Certain bacteria within our digestive tracts contribute to deterioration of joints and tissue. Research shows that a healthier gut environment helps lower the risk for joint pain, swelling and trouble moving in people with osteoarthritis and inflamed joints. Some studies have found that patients with psoriatic arthritis (a type of autoimmune joint disease) have significantly lower levels of certain types of intestinal bacteria and that patients with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to have other strains present.
• Mood disorders (depression, anxiety). Ever hear of the “gut-brain connection”? Well here’s how it works: Your diet affects your microbiome and neurotransmitter activity, and therefore how you feel, your ability to handle stress and your energy levels. Dietary changes over the last century — including industrial farming, the use of pesticides and herbicides, and the degradation of nutrients in foods — are the primary forces behind growing mental health issues like depression. Low nutrient availability, inflammation and oxidative stress affect the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, which control your moods, ease tension and raise alertness. It’s also a two-way street when it comes to your gut and mood: Poor gut health contributes to mood problems, and high amounts of stress also damage your gut and hormonal balance. A 2017 study illustrated the correlation between gut health and depression. Researchers studied 44 adults with irritable bowel syndrome and mild to moderate anxiety or depression. Half of the group took the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001, and the other was given a placebo. Six weeks after taking probiotics daily, 64 percent of the patients taking the probiotic reported decreased depression. Of the patients taking a placebo, only 32 percent reported decreased depression.
• Learning disabilities (ADHD, autism). Our bodies are interconnected systems, and everything we put in them, expose them to or do to them affects the whole person, including growth, development and mental capabilities. ADHD and other learning disabilities have been tied to poor gut health, especially in infants and children. We are continuing to learn how our neurodevelopment, cognition, personality, mood, sleep and eating behaviors are all affected by the bacteria that reside within our guts. There seems to be an association between diet and psychiatric disorders due to metabolites of dietary components and enzymes encoded in the human genome that inhabit our guts. One of the most important factors seems to be establishing a healthy microbiome from birth, including a vaginal delivery ideally and being breastfed, which populates the newborn’s gut with the mother’s healthy bacteria.
• Infertility and pregnancy complications. We first start establishing our microbiomes at exactly the points we are born, and our environment continues to manipulate the bacteria within us for the remainder of our lives. As we age and change, so do our microbiota. This is both good and bad news. It means some of us might already be at a disadvantage if we were exposed to high amounts of bad bacteria or antibiotics at a young age, especially if we were also being withheld from good bacteria that we receive through being breastfed. At the same time, a healthy pregnancy, delivery and period of being breastfed can set the stage for a strong immune system.
• Allergies, asthma and sensitivities. Certain beneficial bacteria lower inflammation, which lessens the severity of allergic reactions, food allergies, asthma or infections of the respiratory tract. This means stronger defense against seasonal allergies or food allergies and more relief from coughing, colds, the flu or a sore throat. An anti-inflammatory diet helps prevent susceptibility to leaky gut syndrome and helps eliminate phlegm or mucus in the lungs or nasal passages, which makes it easier to breathe.

Related: Eat to Beat Disease: How to Eat for Optimal Health

Microbiome and Genes

Researchers often speak about the microbiota as the full collection of genes and microbes living within a community, in this case the community that inhabits our guts. According to the University of Utah Genetic Science Learning Center, “the human microbiome (all of our microbes’ genes) can be considered a counterpart to the human genome (all of our genes). The genes in our microbiome outnumber the genes in our genome by about 100 to 1.”

You might have learned in school when you were younger that all human beings actually have very closely related genetic codes, even though we are all so different-looking as a species. What’s amazing is that each of our gut microbiomes is vastly different. One of the most amazing things about the microbiome is how different it can be from one person to another.

Estimates of the human gene catalog show that we have about 22,000 “genes” (as we normally think of them) but a staggering 3.3 million “non-redundant genes” in the human gut microbiome! The diversity among the microbiome of individuals is phenomenal: Individual humans are about 99.9 percent identical to one another in terms of their host genomes but usually 80 percent to 90 percent different from one another in terms of the microbiomes.

Today, researchers are rapidly working on better understanding the microbiome in order to help prevent, cure or treat symptoms of all sorts of diseases that might stem back to the community living within each of us. DNA-sequencing tools are helping us uncover various bacterial strains and how they might hinder or help the immune system.

This effort is part of the Human Microbiome Project, done by the Data Analysis and Coordination Center for the National Institutes of Health. The goal is to “characterize microbial communities found at multiple human body sites and to look for correlations between changes in the microbiome and human health.”

While some bacteria contribute to diseases, many do not. In fact, there are lots of bacterial strains we could benefit from having more of.

At the same time, having certain diseases can negatively impact the microbiome, although we still have a lot to learn about how this happens exactly. The more we can come to understand how bacteria in the microbiome affect our genes and predispose us to diseases, the better we can personalize treatment approaches and prevent and manage diseases before they’re life-threatening.

Conclusion

• Microbiota are the trillions of bacterial organisms that live inside our bodies. The  whole community of these bacteria is called the microbiome.
• Our gut is a central location of the microbiome, where the large majority of bacteria live.
• Poor gut health is tied to nearly every disease there is in some way, because this is where much of the immune system lives and where inflammation often begins.
• By improving your diet, eating plenty of anti-inflammatory foods and probiotics, lowering stress, and exercising regularly, you can support your body’s microbiome.

The post The Human Microbiome: How It Works + a Diet for Gut Health appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Having trouble pooping? You’re not alone. Constipation is an uncomfortable and inconvenient problem for millions of people — including up to 20 percent of the total American adult population (the number who report regularly suffering from constipation despite making efforts to prevent it). 

It’s estimated that constipation now accounts for over 2.5 million doctors visits every year, often affecting more adult woman than any other population. While it’s normal to have trouble going to the bathroom every now and then, especially when stressed or traveling, it’s another thing to experience a decrease in quality of life due to poor bathroom “performance.”

In addition to causing trouble in the bathroom, a variety of uncomfortable symptoms that can last throughout the whole day — including bloating, gas, low back pain, and even anxiety or fatigue — generally accompany constipation. Every year, consumers spend hundreds of millions of dollars on laxatives and prescriptions to help treat this digestive issue. 

The good news is that constipation is often preventable and there are many natural constipation relief remedies available that can help improve bowel function if you’re already suffering. Are you wondering how to make yourself poop without laxatives?

Natural constipation relief remedies include drinking warm liquids, taking probiotics, drinking aloe vera and so much more. Continue reading for a number of beneficial constipation home remedies and to learn what may be causing your trouble in the bathroom.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation is defined as having difficulty emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened feces. In other words, it causes slower than normal movement of food waste (stool) through the digestive tract.

The National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) considers someone to have constipation when they produce fewer than three bowel movements a week, or have hard, dry and small bowel movements that are painful or difficult to pass.

Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of constipation include:

• Producing fewer-than-normal bowel movements. Keep in mind that  “fewer than normal” will differ from person to person. There is not necessarily one specific number of bowel movements you should expect to have daily/weekly. (That being said, according to the NIDDK, if you have fewer than three bowel movements per week, you are considered to be suffering from constipation.) Some people go to the bathroom more than one time daily, and others only go every other day on average. The key is to pay attention to your usual habits; if suddenly you are going to the bathroom less frequently than what’s “normal” for you, then you’re likely constipated.
• Stool that is difficult or painful to pass. You might feel pains in your abdomen and need to strain or push.
• Bloating in your abdomen, and often having increased gas.

Facts

• Research shows between 16–20 percent of the total North American population suffers from frequent or chronic constipation.
• About one-half of all doctors visits to gastroenterology offices are related to “functional digestive disorders ” that cause constipation.
• Only 34 percent of people with self-reported constipation consult a physician for help, while 35 percent of these individuals use laxatives on their own.
• It’s estimated that the annual expenditure on over-the-counter laxatives in the U.S. is now $800 million.
• 2 percent of women and 1.5 percent of men report using laxatives at least every other day.
• Women experience constipation more often than men do. Some surveys show women become constipated 2–3 times as often as men.
• Older age increases someone’s risk of becoming constipated. The highest risk is for people over 65.
• Among adults over 50, around 10 percent of all men and 20 percent of all women have frequent constipation. In adults older than 70, the rate rises to 21 percent of men and 25 percent of women.
• 60 percent of women report experiencing symptoms of constipation at least weekly, and more than 90 percent report experiencing monthly symptoms.
• More than 60 percent of women living with frequent constipation report that they have experienced symptoms for more than 10 years.
• Adults should get 22 to 34 grams of dietary fiber a day (depending on their age and sex) in order to help prevent constipation or provide constipation relief.
• Lower socioeconomic status, rural residency, living in cold climates, and lower education all appear to be risk factors for constipation.

Causes

Constipation is usually caused by a combination of different factors, including those related to your diet, level of movement and also your stress levels. There are also foods that cause constipation, with factors like eating a low fiber diet and being dehydrated playing major roles in your digestive regularity. Having unusual amounts of emotional stress can also lead to chronic constipation.

When constipation occurs, several things often take place within the GI tract: There is slowed movement of stool passing through the colon or not enough stool is being formed, there is delayed emptying of the colon from the pelvis, or a combination of both.

Do you suffer from IBS symptoms? If so, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) could be the cause of severe constipation. The abnormal digestive occurrences described above are often attributed to functional digestive disorders including IBS, which can cause persistent constipation along with other symptoms. Functional GI disorders are considered those that cause the digestive system to work an abnormal way, yet without evidence of damage due to a disease. The risk factors listed below also contribute to IBS and functional digestive disorders.

Here are several factors that might be contributing to your constipation, according to research published by the American College of Gastroenterology:

• Poor diet: Diets high in processed foods, sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, unhealthy fats and synthetic additives can make it harder to produce normal bowel movements.
• Stress: High amounts of stress alters hormone and neurotransmitter production, which has a direct influence on muscle tension, inflammation, enzyme production and overall digestive functioning.
• Inactivity: Exercise helps to increase blood flow, strengthens muscles within the digestive tract and helps control stress.
• Opioids: Opioid-induced constipation is possible because opioids slow down the central nervous system and the body’s involuntary movements that allow for proper digestion.
• Certain medications: Some medications can cause frequent constipation including: antidepressants, antacids, calcium or iron supplements, anticholinergics, anticonvulsants, narcotics and diuretics.
• Imbalance in intestinal flora: Healthy bacteria living in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, called probiotics, help to regulate bowel function. One of the reasons fiber is so important for gut health is because “prebiotic” fiber from plant foods helps probiotic bacteria to thrive.
• Thyroid or hormonal problems: Menopause, PMS, eating disorders, diabetes and thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism can all cause signs of constipation. Other diseases that might contribute to constipation include Parkinson’s disease, spinal injuries or neurological issues that affect nerves in the GI tract.
• Magnesium deficiency: Magnesium is an electrolyte that helps with normal muscle functioning. Too little magnesium in your diet can contribute to muscle tension and also worsen symptoms of emotional stress.
• Bad bathroom habits: For some, rushing the time they spend in the bathroom and sitting in an uncomfortable position on the toilet can contribute to bowel movements that don’t feel complete.
• Poor sleep, jet lag and traveling: These factors can throw off your digestive regularity and lead to constipation symptoms.
• Older age: Sometimes older adults lose interest in food (because of things like food tasting differently, trouble chewing and not having energy to cook), which means they stop consuming enough fiber and calories, and therefore digestion slows down.
• Barium swallow: A barium swallow is an x-ray examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Drinking barium allows certain areas to be more visible. This high-concentration of barium, however, sometimes causes constipation afterward. You may be asked to drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods after the procedure.

Constipation Relief Remedies

When discussing the top natural remedies for constipation, it’s best to break it up into foods to eat, foods to avoid, supplements that help and practices that can make a surprising difference in constipation relief.

It’s very common that when adapting eating strategies to get rid of constipation and following a constipation diet, the digestive system will improve. Combine this with supplements and mind-body practices, and your gut will thank you.

1. Eat These Foods for Constipation Relief

• High fiber foods: Include high fiber foods like raw fruits and vegetables, beans, nuts, ancient grains and seeds in your daily diet. This includes beans, pulses or legumes, sweet potatoes, apples, pears, berries, prunes, avocado, chia and flax seeds, 100 percent unprocessed grains, broccoli, cooked greens and winter squash. Adding in these foods can help to relieve adult, child and toddler constipation, as often times, people of all ages aren’t consuming enough fiber on a daily basis.
• Green leafy vegetables: Green vegetables not only contain fiber, they are also a good source of magnesium that can help improve constipation. Because they are very low in calories, have a high water content and are nutrient-dense, they should ideally be consumed daily.
• Prunes and figs: These fruits are high in fiber and tend to work as natural laxatives. Several a day serve as an effective constipation remedy, but in general be careful not to go overboard with dried fruit since it contains a decent amount of sugar given the small size.
• Warm liquids: Warm or room temperature liquids (as opposed to very cold drinks), especially when consumed first thing in the morning, tend to stimulate digestion. When you need a simple home remedy for constipation, try some herbal tea, warm water infused with lemon, coffee in moderation or bone broth.
• Water and hydrating liquids: Fiber needs water to pass through the digestive system and form stool. Be sure to add fiber to your diet a little at a time so that your body gets used to the change. Start consuming a higher fiber diet slowly if you are not used to it, and increase your intake of water at the same time to help with absorption and passing (especially if you plan on using fiber supplements). Consuming more fiber without drinking enough can actually make constipation and abdominal pain worse! Drink 8–16 ounce glasses of water every 2 hours while you transition into eating more fiber, then make sure to continue drinking water regularly throughout the day.
• Sprouted chia seeds and flaxseeds: These seeds are high in fiber and healthy fats, plus they help to absorb water. Flaxseed oil especially helps to lubricate the colon. If you want to make yourself poop to relieve constipation pain, consume about 2–3 tablespoons of seeds (soaked ideally to help release nutrients) daily with water or liquid, and consider taking 1 tablespoon daily of flaxseed oil.

2. Stop Eating These Foods that Can Make Constipation Worse

• “Empty calorie foods”: Foods that have a high amount of calories, but little fiber or nutrients, should be reduced or eliminated. These can include foods reported to be very common in the Standard American Diet such as: cheese, sweetened cereal, chips, fast food, ice cream, processed meats like cold cuts or hot dogs, and high-sodium frozen foods.
• Fried foods: Trans fats (commonly only found in fried foods, fast food and fatty packaged products) slow down stool’s transit time through the intestines and essentially “clog up” digestion.
• Alcohol: Because it increases urine production and fluid loss, alcohol is difficult on the digestive system and can make constipation worse. To prevent becoming dehydrated, consume alcohol only in small-to-moderate amounts and drink plenty of water at the same time.
• Pasteurized dairy products: Many people are lactose intolerant and can become constipated from the over consumption of dairy products. This can also lead to infant constipation, so look out for signs of an intolerance.
• Refined flour: Refined flour by nature does not contain any fiber and, therefore, will not help with constipation.
• Caffeine: Caffeine has various effects on digestion depending on the person. For some, caffeine can cause increased urine production and sometimes worsen feelings of anxiety and constipation — all symptoms of a caffeine overdose. For other people, it helps improve bowel movements by stimulating muscle contractions. Either way, only plan to drink coffee in moderation. Also, consume enough other hydrating liquids throughout the day to offset dehydration from fluid loss.

3. Take These Supplements that Help Relieve Constipation

• Psyllium husk: This is a natural constipation treatment because it’s high in fiber and helpful for forming stool. When combined with water or another liquid, psyllium husk swells and produces more bulk, which stimulates the intestines to contract and helps speed the passage of stool through the digestive tract. For adults and children over 12 years of age, mix one tablespoon with 8 ounces liquid once daily.
• Cod liver oil: A traditional remedy used upon waking is taking one tablespoon of cod liver oil or flaxseed oil mixed with 8 ounces of fresh pressed carrot juice to stimulate bowel movements.
• Castor oil: Castor oil works like a natural, mild stimulant laxative when taken orally. A commonly recommended dose for adults (such as to treat constipation) is 15–60 mL, taken in one single dose orally. This is equivalent to about one to four teaspoons once per day.
• Apple fiber: Apples (and pears) contain a special type of fiber called pectin. Pectin is an insoluble fiber that helps the stool become bulky, allowing it to pass through the digestive system easier. Consume about 1–2 teaspoons twice daily.
• Magnesium: Magnesium for constipation works by improving gut motility. Add this supplement (a standard magnesium supplement or magnesium citrate) in slowly and cut back if it causes diarrhea. Consume about 250 milligrams 2–4 times daily.
• Probiotics: Maintaining a healthy intestinal tract is critical for avoiding digestive problems. Take a daily probiotic supplement containing at least 15 billion “live and active” organisms.
• Aloe vera juice: This helps to reduce inflammation and improve the frequency of bowel movements, making it one of the best natural laxatives for constipation. Take 1/4 cup twice daily while adjusting the amount based on symptoms.

4. Use These Mind-Body Practices that Help Prevent Constipation

• Exercise: Physical activity increases muscle activity in your intestines, so try to fit in more movement and formal exercise most days of the week. Exercise can especially be helpful in the morning for getting the digestive system “fired up,” soothing stress and putting you a positive mindset. I recommend trying rebounding, a.k.a. jumping on a mini-trampoline, which can stimulate the bowels and lymphatic system.  Light exercise can also support bowel function, including stretching, walking, jogging, yoga, swimming or dancing.
• Managing and reducing stress: Would you believe that 75 percent to 90 percent of all doctors office visits are related to conditions caused by stress? Constipation is certainly one of them! Stress manifests in the body in multiple ways you can’t always feel: increasing muscle tension, increasing levels of “stress hormones” like cortisol, causing blood sugar levels to rise, altering your appetite, getting in the way of normal digestion by changing the gut environment, and affecting the way your thyroid gland and hormones works. Ways to relieve stress include: yoga or stretching, meditation, prayer, spending time outdoors, reading or writing a journal, exercise, warm baths and using relaxing essential oils.
• Biofeedback: “Biofeedback” practices involve working with a therapist who uses devices to help you learn to relax and tighten certain parts of your body on demand, especially tight or constricted muscles that can become tense when you’re under stress. Learning to relax muscles in your pelvis can help you pass stool more easily when it comes time to go to the bathroom. Biofeedback might not be for everybody, but it’s been shown to be very helpful. A typical biofeedback session with a practitioner might involve using a catheter inserted into your rectum to gauge progress, while you perform exercises to alternately relax and tighten your pelvic muscles.

Conventional Treatment

The most common ways to relieve constipation include taking fiber supplements and using over-the-counter laxatives. Some people also get prescribed constipation medications to help control bowel movements and regulate digestive functioning, although this is much less common than using inexpensive, widely-available laxatives.

Although laxative teas, solutions and tablets might temporarily help relieve constipation, they can also be overused and cause many side effects. A much safer way to control severe constipation is through “natural laxatives” such as exercise, a healthy diet and stress reduction. You can also occasionally try tactics like a salt water flush (which serves as an enema for constipation) or bone broth fast to help clear things out and get them moving again.

Laxatives are very dangerous when used as a “purging” dieting technique or taken too frequently. How do they work, and why don’t they help solve constipation for good?

Laxatives work by causing the muscles of the GI tract to contract, increasing water absorption or bulking stool so it can move quickly through the colon. The problem is that this often interferes with the renin-aldosterone part of the digestive system, causes abnormal loss of fluid and ultimately weakens muscles needed for bowel movements. The body rebounds after taking laxatives by holding on to all of the available water it can get, which leads to edema (water retention or bloating).

Other health problems associated with laxative abuse include:

• dehydration (fluid loss)
• electrolyte imbalances
• acid/alkaline base changes
• the inability to produce enough digestive enzymes
• edema (water retention)
• dizziness and light-headedness
• damage to the colon and digestive organs
• alternating diarrhea and constipation
• complications with the cardiovascular systems

Precautions

Constipation can usually be managed on your own — without the need for a doctor visit, laxatives or prescriptions — but in some cases it’s best to call your doctor.

• If your constipation becomes severe and lasts for more than three weeks, visit a professional to make sure an underlying disorder isn’t the cause.
• Long-term constipation can lead to fecal impaction of the colon, which can lead to serious illness or death if left untreated. It can also result in hemorrhoids. It’s important to visit a healthcare professional to receive a proper diagnosis of the situation before it worsens. A professional may give a clinical diagnosis or choose to perform testing.
• Also make a doctor’s visit if you notice blood in your stool, a bulging abdomen or signs of an enlarged spleen.
• If constipation occurs along with diarrhea, keep an eye out for signs of food allergies, sensitives or reactions to medications. These can include signs of malnutrition, painful abdominal swelling, skin rashes, brain dog, a fever, fatigue and aches.

Final Thoughts

• Constipation means your bowel movements are happening less often than normal, are hard or painful to produce and contribute to symptoms like a swollen abdomen or bloating and gas.
• Common causes of constipation include a poor diet lacking fiber, dehydration, thyroid disorders, older age, a sedentary lifestyle, medications and stress.
• What can you do for severe constipation? Natural constipation relief remedies include a healthy diet with high fiber foods, drinking more water, exercise, stress reduction, biofeedback training and using helpful supplements such as magnesium and cod liver oil.

The post Natural Constipation Relief Remedies: Foods, Supplements & Practices appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Diarrhea is a common type of gastrointestinal upset or infection. It causes frequent and excessive discharging of the bowels in the form of abnormally watery stools and stomach pains. If you or one of your children has recently developed diarrhea, the first question you likely ask is, “Can you tell me how to stop diarrhea fast?”

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, you might be affected by an acute case of diarrhea. Acute diarrhea lasts one or two weeks while you’re temporarily sick. You also might have chronic diarrhea, which persists longer than several weeks.

Officially, you have diarrhea if you have very loose or watery stools three or more times within 24 hours.

Believe it or not, acute diarrhea can be one of your body’s best defense mechanisms against a temporary infection or virus. Although they’re uncomfortable and unpleasant to deal with, short-term diarrhea symptoms help rapidly expel harmful substances out of your GI tract before they have a chance to cause even more trouble or complications.

Chronic diarrhea symptoms, on the other hand, are a bit different. They tend to come and go depending on other dietary and lifestyle factors. These include the state of your immune system and the level of stress you’re dealing with.

Research shows that chronic/persistent diarrhea occurs in approximately 3 percent of people traveling to developing countries (also known as traveler’s diarrhea). Acute diarrhea is usually easy to treat without medication or serious intervention.

However, chronic diarrhea is more problematic. It can cause dehydration and nutrient deficiencies if it isn’t properly addressed.

What causes chronic diarrhea? Digestive diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) — a disorder of the small intestine — and ulcerative colitis, often cause chronic diarrhea.

The good news is there are several steps you can take to naturally treat both types of diarrhea. Below you’ll learn about steps you can take to thicken your stool, rehydrate and overcome symptoms of diarrhea.

Causes

Diarrhea is a natural reaction to dehydration, infection or toxins that need to be expelled from the digestive system. Examples include certain types of bacteria, parasites, food allergies or other microbes.

One of the risks associated with diarrhea is that it can make you even more dehydrated and ill if you’re already sick. This is because it makes the body lose too much water and minerals, including electrolytes like sodium, too quickly.

If you’re not already familiar with symptoms that are typical of diarrhea, here are the most common:

• Frequent bowel movements, including going to the bathroom more than one to two times daily
• Watery feces or “loose” stools
• Abdominal pains, cramping and sometimes stomach bloating
• Sometimes nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pains and sometimes loss of appetite, trouble eating enough and/or weight loss
• Increased thirst, due to losing more water than usual when going to the bathroom frequently
• Sometimes symptoms of a fever depending on what’s causing diarrhea (such as an infection or illness)
• Symptoms of dehydration, which can include weakness, brain fog, upset stomach, dizziness and blood pressure changes

The key to learning how to stop diarrhea symptoms once they’ve started and preventing them returning in the future depends on the underlying causes of the condition. Diarrhea can develop for various reasons, including dehydration, illnesses or food poisoning.

Children, infants, adults and the elderly may all develop diarrhea for different reasons. These include difficulty digesting foods properly, leaky gut syndrome, emotional stress linked to IBS or not drinking enough water.

Risk Factors

What causes watery diarrhea in adults most often? Causes and risk factors for diarrhea in adults include:

• Bacterial infection. This can be passed from person to person or picked up from contaminated surfaces.
• SIBO, which means that due to an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the small intestine the body can’t digest and absorb nutrients properly.
• Food allergies, such as lactose intolerance (a type of sugar found in dairy). Experts believe that lactose intolerance is one of the most common reasons both children and adults suffer from diarrhea, especially when it’s chronic. What’s tricky about lactose intolerance is that it might not start until your adult years or emerge due to hormonal changes, like pregnancy.
• Drinking contaminated water, which can contain parasites, bacteria, etc.
• Food poisoning, due to eating a food contaminated with some type of harmful microbe.
• Dehydration (not drinking enough water or losing too much water from vomiting/illnesses or other causes).
• Poor digestion and related conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s disease.
• Overeating or drinking lots of liquids too quickly.
• Eating too much unripe or overripe fruit.
• Eating too much greasy food that is difficult to digest properly.
• Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration and indigestion.
• Emotional stress and anxiety.
• Side effects of taking certain medications, especially antacids. Experts think that antacids are the most common cause of drug-related diarrhea because they contain magnesium, which can make stool too watery. If you take these meds to control acid reflux symptoms, it’s best to try and tackle the underlying causes of indigestion. If you must take medications, try those that don’t contain magnesium, and lower your dose. Motility medications — medications to help stimulate the intestines in order to relieve constipation — may result in diarrhea.
• Other supplements and medications, including antibiotics, quinidine, lactulose and colchicine, can also cause diarrhea.
• Taking too much vitamin C and magnesium in supplement form can do the same.

What is the cause of diarrhea most often in children and infants? Causes can include:

• Rotavirus, also known as viral gastroenteritis or stomach flu, which is the most common cause of diarrhea in children ages 2 and younger. However, viral gastroenteritis can also affect adults.
• Food allergies, including an allergy to milk (lactose intolerance) or other common culprits, like peanuts, eggs, etc.
• Reactions to formula or sometimes from breastfeeding if the mother consumed something that is hard to digest.
• Not consuming enough liquids or consuming too much (such as juice).
• Bacterial infection, such as from touching dirty surfaces, toys or other people and then putting their hands into their mouths. Infants in day care centers have been found to have a higher risk of contracting bacteria that can cause intestinal infections that lead to diarrhea.
• Taking antibiotics, which can cause changes in the gut/digestive system due to killing off healthy bacteria.

Remember that it’s normal for infants and babies to have bowel movements that are softer than those of adults. Their stools might also become different colors at times, and their bowel movements may happen more than once daily (especially in infants). This usually isn’t cause for concern.

Talk to your doctor if your baby’s diarrhea lasts for more than several days, especially if you also notice signs of dehydration like:

• fewer wet diapers
• dry eyes when crying
• dry mouth
• sunken eyes or lethargy
• usual foul odor in three or more diarrhea stools
• rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• severe diarrhea while taking antibiotics

Babies with diarrhea may also have a fever, seem very fussy or seem disinterested in eating.

How to Stop Diarrhea: Conventional Treatments

Unless you’ve had diarrhea symptoms for more than one to two weeks, especially if you aren’t sure why they’re happening and they don’t seem to be getting any better from treatments described above, it’s usually not necessary to see a doctor. If you do decide to get a professional opinion, your doctor will likely recommend some of the following treatments for diarrhea:

• Anti-diarrheal medications: These medications, also known as anti-motility medicines, can help shut down diarrhea symptoms quickly, but this isn’t necessarily always a good thing. Because diarrhea is one of your body’s natural mechanisms for shedding toxins or microbes that have made their way into your GI tract, not allowing this “purge” to happen might mean that harmful bacteria stay inside your body longer. For this reason many doctors are now recommending that you “wait out” acute cases of diarrhea without taking anti-motility medications if you can, as long as you’re not at risk for complications and try to combat dehydration naturally.
• Following an elimination diet: If you’re suffering from chronic diarrhea symptoms, then your doctor will likely recommend you try pinpointing which foods are problematic for you to digest by following an elimination diet. This means you avoid certain foods, such as dairy products, for a given period of time to determine if symptoms get better. Once you add the suspected food back into your diet you can track whether symptoms return and then make a judgment call about whether you should avoid the food for good.
• Staying hydrated and eating light, bland foods until you feel better (more on these treatments below).

How to Stop Diarrhea Naturally: 5 Home Remedies

1. Eat Soothing Foods and Those That Are Easy to Digest

What do you eat when you have diarrhea? Here are some of the top foods that can help you stop diarrhea symptoms:

• Eat lightly — The more food you consume, the harder your digestive organs have to work. You likely won’t have too much of an appetite while you have diarrhea, so try to eat small amounts spread throughout the day.
• Simple foods that are easy to digest — Stick with a diet of bland foods like simple whole grains, bananas, rice, applesauce and toast the first few days. Also known as the BRAT diet, these foods are easy on the digestive system and can provide some fiber to help add bulk to stools.
• Flaxseed oil — This has been shown to reduce the duration of diarrhea.
• Fruits and vegetables — These provide water, fiber and electrolytes. Try making a smoothie or sorbet with fruit and steaming veggies to make them easier to digest. Monitor your symptoms to make sure they don’t get worse, however, as some people react badly to too much natural sugar.
• Raw honey and ginger — Some people find that a small amount of honey and ginger root added to herbal tea (see below) helps soothe the stomach and reduce irritation.

What foods cause diarrhea? The following are foods to avoid when you have acute diarrhea or suffer from chronic symptoms that keep returning:

• Conventional dairy — Processed dairy can be hard to digest and can make diarrhea worse. However, raw cultured dairy, such as yogurt or kefir, is high in probiotics, which can support bowel function.
• Any potential allergens — As mentioned above, diarrhea can result from food allergies like gluten, nuts, shellfish and dairy.
• Processed fats and oils — Too much fat can upset your sensitive stomach and make the diarrhea worse. This can include fats from packaged products with refined vegetable oils, fast foods, cheesy foods, processed meats or fried foods.
• Added sugar and artificial sweeteners — Bacteria love to eat sugar, and sugar reduces immune system and digestive functioning in many cases.
• Caffeine — Caffeine can stimulate muscles in the digestive tract, increasing bowel movements and cramping.
• Carbonated, sugar drinks
• Alcohol
• Potentially foods with FODMAP carbohydrates, if they make your symptoms worse. Reactions vary from person to person, but problematic foods might include pears, oats, beans/legumes, wheat, corn, soy, potatoes and any type of bran.

2. Stay Hydrated

Want to know how to stop diarrhea symptoms like dizziness or weakness that are tied to dehydration? Drinking enough water is critical when you’re losing so much in your stool.

To keep dehydration symptoms from getting worse when you have diarrhea, try to drink 16 ounces of fluids about every hour. You can also get fluids through drinking homemade bone broth, which additionally provides many nutrients you’re in need of (like amino acids and electrolytes). Herbal teas, including ginger, peppermint, oat bark, licorice/fennel or pomegranate tea (non-caffeinated), may also help soothe your stomach.

Although it’s not a good solution for everyone, drinking coconut water (a natural source of electrolytes), fresh vegetable juice or sucking on homemade fruit ice pops can also be good ways to get more water and nutrients into your system. However, don’t consume too much juice, or too much liquid too quickly, if you notice this worsens the diarrhea.

You can judge if you’re losing too much water by paying attention to the color of your urine, as well as how thirsty you are. If you’re not having to urinate often but when you do your urine is very dark yellow, drink more water. Drink so your thirst seems about normal and your urine is light yellow.

3. Get Enough Rest

Avoid too much exercise or strenuous physical activity when you’re dealing with diarrhea. Chances are you will feel weak and a bit run down, and you might not sleep well while your symptoms persist.

Give your body a chance to recover by getting enough sleep (seven to nine hours per night or more), taking it easy and trying to keep your stress levels down.

4. Try These Supplements

Certain supplements can help improve overall gut and digestive health, allow you to process the foods and nutrients you’re consuming more easily, and soothe an upset stomach. I recommend trying some of the following:

• Probiotics (50 billion units daily): Probiotics help fight infection and can help recolonize the gut with healthy bacteria. These are available in supplement form and also in cultured/fermented foods.
• Digestive enzymes (2 before each meal): These enzymes help with nutrient absorption.
• Glutamine powder (5 grams 2x daily): Glutamine is an amino acid that helps repair the digestive tract, especially important for people with chronic diarrhea. It’s available in supplement form and also naturally in bone broth.
• Aloe vera juice (1/2 cup taken about 3x daily): Aloe is healing to the lining of the digestive system and easy to break down.
• Raw sprouted fiber from flax and chia seeds (2–3 tablespoons daily): Soluble fiber found in seeds can help thicken stools and reduce the frequency of diarrhea.

5. Use Essential Oils

Studies have found that peppermint essential oil can reduce bowel inflammation and soothe the digestive tract, reducing loose stools. Studies have also found that peppermint oil has active ingredients, including menthol or monoterpene, that have anti-spasmotic properties due to their ability to block calcium channels within the intestinal smooth muscles. This helps stop cramping, frequent elimination and pains.

One review found that eight out of 12 placebo-controlled studies showed statistically significant positive effects in favor of peppermint oil compared to control groups/placebo.

Certain studies have found that use of peppermint oil seems to be most effective in relieving abdominal pain in diarrhea in people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, which is often caused by multiple factors and can be hard to treat. One double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 74 patients with IBS found that after six weeks of using peppermint oil three times daily, abdominal pain and quality of life were markedly improved compared with a placebo group not using peppermint.

How to Stop Diarrhea in Infants and Children

Infants are especially susceptible to dehydration that can happen along with diarrhea. Plus, they’re more likely to have diarrhea due to allergies or illnesses since their immune systems aren’t yet fully developed or strong.

It’s estimated that 3 percent of infants are allergic to proteins found in dairy. This includes the dairy found in most formulas, as well as dairy obtained from breast milk if the mother is consuming dairy.

Symptoms to look out for that indicate a milk protein allergy include vomiting and developing a rash, in addition to diarrhea.

It’s not safe to give infants or young children anti-diarrheal medications that are meant for adults. Rather, it’s recommended you try these treatment methods instead:

• Give the infant/baby more liquids that normal. Offer lots of liquids. Try to offer breast milk or a bottle with water more often. However, remember that sugary drinks like juice can make diarrhea symptoms worse, so avoid these.
• Most pediatricians now recommend trying to give infants/babies a source of electrolytes when they’re experiencing diarrhea, especially to replace lost sodium.
• Give them probiotic foods. Cultured or fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, cultured veggies or supplements and even oral drops all contain probiotics. They help restore healthy bacteria in the digestive tract and can be useful for reducing many forms of digestive upset.
• If your baby develops skin irritation and diaper rash due to you having to change diapers often, be very gentle. Use a washcloth and warm water to clean the baby instead of wipes and lots of drying soap. Let the skin air dry. Then apply an ointment or moisture barrier for protection, like petroleum jelly or zinc oxide.
• Diarrhea should go away within one to three days if the child starts to get better. If it does not go away, call the doctor. You’ll want to rule out other health problems and make sure the child isn’t suffering from an intestinal or yeast infection.

Precautions

It’s usually best to try treating acute diarrhea on your own for several days, tracking if your symptoms improve with help from the recommendations above while you wait it out. However, visit your doctor if diarrhea occurs in infants or young children for more than several days in a row, the elderly, anyone who is underweight and already suffering from health problems, or someone who develops more serious symptoms, including:

• Blood or mucus in your stool
• Weight loss
• Fever

Pay attention to signs that you’re becoming dehydrated, and take steps to drink more water and obtain electrolytes. If you become dizzy, very weak or confused, then consult with your doctor to avoid complications.

Final Thoughts

• Diarrhea is a common problem that occurs when your bowel movements (or stools) become very loose, frequent and/or watery. It can be either acute (short-term) or chronic, lasting more than two to three weeks.
• Diarrhea is caused by factors including food allergies, an infection or virus, dehydration, stress, and certain medications.
• Natural ways to help get rid of diarrhea include drinking enough fluids, consuming bland foods and getting enough rest.

The post How to Stop Diarrhea: Causes, Risk Factors and Home Remedies appeared first on Dr. Axe.

You rely on your immune system to protect you from infections and keep you healthy … and here’s where gut health comes in.

Every day, pathogens — like infectious bacteria, viruses and toxins — threaten your health. Your immune system has special cells that patrol constantly so they can detect those pathogens immediately.

Once your immune system sees what it’s up against, it responds with powerful weapons to defeat the threat before it affects your health.

When it’s working properly, that is.

Your immune system can’t function properly — or fully protect you — without the support of good bacteria in your gut. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much to throw your gut bacteria out of balance and sabotage your immune system and gut health.

Your Immune System Relies on Your Gut Health

Your gut microbiome contains trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. When your gut microbiome has a healthy balance, good bacteria (probiotics) outnumber bad bacteria (pathogens) and contribute to your overall well-being.

The probiotic bacteria in your gut help shape and train your immune system and supply it with supportive nutrients and healing compounds. Since more than 70 percent of your immune system resides in your gut, you can see why healthy balance is so important.

When your gut microbiome falls out of balance and into a state of dysbiosis, bad bacteria outnumber good bacteria. When that happens, your gut microbiome has a negative impact on your immune system.

Dysbiosis can lead your immune system to overreact, creating inflammation and attacking your own healthy cells. It can also cause an immune system under-reaction, which leaves you extra vulnerable to any infections that are going around.

Unfortunately, your gut microbiome faces damaging threats every day. Any one of those threats can sabotage gut balance … and healthy immune system function.

7 Gut Health Disruptors

Gut dysbiosis damages your immune system and the way it responds to infections. That’s why it’s crucial to get your gut microbiome in healthy balance and keep it there.

Many features of everyday life work against a healthy gut microbiome and immune system, leaving you extra vulnerable to infections. Some of the worst culprits include:

1. Antibiotics and other medications – including proton pump inhibitors, beta-blockers and antidepressants – can cause dysbiosis, sometimes after a single dose.
2. Pesticides, including glyphosate, can kill beneficial gut bacteria, allowing bad bacteria to dominate the microbiome.
3. Processed foods full of sugar and unhealthy fats encourage pathogen overgrowth and starve out probiotic bacteria, which naturally thrive on prebiotic fiber.
4. Stress and anxiety negatively affect your gut microbiome through a two-way path known as the gut-brain axis. Emotional stress causes dysbiosis, and dysbiosis increases emotional stress, leaving you trapped in a damaging feedback loop.
5. Environmental toxins, including household cleaners and heavy metals, negatively change the makeup and function of the gut microbiome, leading to increased risk of disease.
6. Sedentary lifestyle leads to increased populations of pathogenic gut bacteria and lower diversity in the gut microbiome, contributing to increased risk of chronic diseases and infections.
7. Lack of sleep and poor sleep quality can cause dysbiosis, leading to a weakened immune system.

Any of these factors can interfere with a healthy gut microbiome, but it’s even more likely that you experience several at once. When your gut becomes unbalanced, it has an enormous effect on your immune system.

How Gut Imbalance Upsets Your Immune System

Dysbiosis interferes with healthy immune system activity in a few different ways.

Harmful bacteria produce many damaging toxins, including lipopolysaccharides (LPS toxins). Both the bad bacteria and their toxic byproducts attack the protective lining — known as the gut barrier — inside the intestines.

The gut barrier’s job is to allow nutrients out into the bloodstream while keeping pathogens and toxins safely locked inside the gut. When bad bacteria, LPS toxins and other harmful compounds attack, they damage the gut barrier and escape into the bloodstream. From there, they can reach any part of your body and do even more harm.

Your immune system detects these threats and starts to respond. It uses inflammation as one of its main defensive weapons.

Since new threats constantly leak through the gut barrier, your immune system can’t shut down its responses. That leads to system-wide, long-term inflammation — the root cause of many autoimmune and chronic conditions.

At the same time, the bad bacteria in the gut prevent good bacteria from flourishing. Probiotic bacteria play a crucial role in optimal immune function by:

• Helping digest food completely and increasing nutrient absorption
• Producing essential nutrients, such as B vitamins and vitamin K
• Producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that help regulate immune cell function
• Creating anti-inflammatory compounds
• Protecting against pathogens
• Maintaining a strong gut barrier

In dysbiosis, when bad bacteria are in charge, your immune system loses out on all of that support.

The solution: Rebalance the gut microbiome so beneficial bacteria can flourish and get your immune system back on track.

5 Steps to Fix a Gut Imbalance

You can rebalance an unhealthy gut and keep it in healthy shape by making five simple changes to your daily routine. Keep in mind that when considering how to improve gut health, you must achieve better balance between of the microorganisms in your gut.

1. Detoxify Your Gut

In order for probiotic bacteria to survive, you need to remove the toxins that threaten them. Using natural detox and cell-supporting agents — like clinically proven modified citrus pectin — can help your body get rid of toxins and other culprits that cause dysbiosis, while actively supporting gut health and protecting cell function.

2. Take Probiotics

High-quality probiotics help restore an unhealthy gut back into balance. Giving your body a fresh supply of probiotics every day is a crucial part of keeping your gut — and your immune system — in harmony.

3. Nourish Probiotics With Prebiotics

Beneficial gut bacteria require a special diet made up of prebiotic fiber. Prebiotics sustain probiotics and allow them to produce healing compounds like SCFAs.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet

Sugary, fatty, processed foods harm your gut microbiome. Fresh, natural, whole foods provide the nutrients and fiber your gut needs to stay in healthy balance.

5. Exercise Regularly

Moderate physical activity increases probiotic populations and enriches probiotic diversity. Exercising on most days improves your microbiome health — and your overall health as well.

When functioning at its best, your gut is an immune powerhouse. It also works hard to keep your neurological health in peak shape, while nourishing your body and removing toxins and waste.

The more we learn about the intricate connections between gut function, immunity and overall wellness, the more tools and strategies we have to improve this core foundation of optimal health.

The post 7 Reasons You Probably Have an Unhealthy Gut (And 5 Ways to Improve Gut Health) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Candida is a fungal infection and can be very serious. It can be perplexing for many, as potential candida signs are so varied. They can include exhaustion, cravings for sweets, bad breath, white coating on the tongue, brain fog, joint pain, digestive issues and more.

Let’s dive into the different types of candida, what can cause it in the first place and then, most important, the possible natural remedies for it.

What Is Candida?

Candida can be very serious. The “superbug” candida species known as Candida auris has emerged as a dangerous health threat in several countries and many health care facilities in the U.S. This version of candida — which often spreads through candida biofilms on surfaces such as catheters and bedrails — has proven resistant to multiple drugs, resulting in serious illness.

Meanwhile, Candida albicans is the most common type of yeast infection found in the mouth, intestinal tract and vagina (vaginal/genital candidiasis), and it may affect skin and other mucous membranes. If the immune system is functioning optimally, this type of yeast infection is rarely serious.

However, if the immune system is not functioning properly, the candida infection can migrate to other areas of the body, including the blood and membranes around the heart or brain, causing serious candida symptoms. This is referred to as invasive candidiasis.

Candida is a fungus that aids with nutrient absorption and digestion when in proper levels in the body. When it overproduces, typical candida symptoms may appear. In the digestive tract, if left unchecked, it breaks down the walls of the intestinal lining and penetrates into the bloodstream. This releases byproduct toxins and other toxins from your system, causing leaky gut syndrome.

When your body’s natural pH balance is upset, the candida yeasts can grow out of control, creating a systemic problem and unpleasant candida symptoms. Good healthy bacteria and a properly functioning immune system are essential when fighting this stubborn infection.

Candida overgrowth syndrome, or COS, is the term used when candida has grown out of control in your body. Make no mistake: This is a chronic health condition. In addition to candida symptoms, individuals who have never experienced a serious yeast infection can find they have developed new sensitivities, allergies or intolerances to a variety of foods. These foods include dairy, eggs, corn and gluten.

Causes

There are many possible causes of candida, including a diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol that help feed candida. To add to that, here are six other potential causes below.

1. Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics

Sometimes, antibiotics are needed to fight a stubborn infection to kill the offending bacteria in your system. The problem with antibiotics and with overusing them (often creating antibiotic resistance) is that they don’t just kill the bad bacteria; they kill the good ones, too.

The good bacteria in your system are responsible for digestion and keeping candida under control. After a long course (or multiple courses over a short period), antibiotics can make your body a literal breeding ground for candida.

2. Birth Control Pills

Unlike antibiotics, birth control pills in and of themselves do not directly cause a yeast infection or candida overgrowth syndrome. However, when a woman consumes a diet high in refined sugars and has had a course of antibiotics, birth control pills can adversely affect her body, leading to a candida infection.

Some women find that birth control pills seem to instigate yeast infections — and even long after the initial infection is gone, once they start taking the birth control pills again, candida can take root.

3. Oral Corticosteroids

Individuals who treat their asthma with corticosteroid inhalants are at an increased risk of developing candida in the mouth, leading to systemic candida overgrowth. It is imperative that individuals using corticosteroid inhalers for asthma follow the directions for swishing the mouth out after each use. If oral candidiasis is detected, it can be treated with the gargling of coconut oil and a drop or two of essential clove oil.

4. Cancer Treatments

According to the Department of Clinical Research at Merck Research Laboratories, candidiasis can become invasive in cancer patients and present a serious complication. In this study, one-third of patients being treated for cancer had invasive candidiasis. Chemotherapy and radiation can both work to kill cancerous cells and tumors; however, they also kill off the healthy bacteria that naturally fight candida.

5. Diabetes

In a Type 1 or a Type 2 diabetic, sugar levels in the mouth and other mucous membranes are traditionally higher than in an individual without diabetes. Since candida is a type of yeast and sugar feeds yeast, it is understandable that those with diabetes are at a greater risk for developing candida overgrowth syndrome.

6. Weakened Immune System

Any individual with a weakened immune system is more likely to develop candida. This population includes infants, small children, the elderly, those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, and other inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Candida Symptoms

Candida yeast overgrowth can be difficult for a physician to diagnose. Possible methods of testing include stool testing, serum testing, candida DNA test, stool PCR testing and microbial organic acids testing. This type of systemic yeast infection presents different ways in different people.

Below are nine of the candida symptoms to watch for if you are concerned you have candida or candida overgrowth syndrome.

1. Chronic Fatigue

If you have fatigue or exhaustion that you simply cannot shake, regardless of the number of hours you sleep, you may have chronic fatigue syndrome. The disease is characterized by fatigue that lasts a minimum of six months and is often accompanied by other candida symptoms, including headaches, joint pain, difficulties with memory and concentration and sore throat.

Often one of the candida symptoms is chronic fatigue. While a candida infection is not the only cause of chronic fatigue syndrome, many physicians believe it heightens the risk of CFS.

2. Mood Disorders

One of the reasons it can be difficult to diagnose candida is that so many of the candida symptoms are common to other conditions, including mood disorders. Individuals with candida overgrowth may experience dramatic mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression and even panic attacks.

3. Recurring Vaginal and Urinary Tract Infections

When an individual experiences recurring infections in the urinary tract or vagina, candida may be at the root of the problem. It is important to realize that candida can be sexually transmitted, and partners can spread it back and forth. For women, reduce the risk by avoiding tight-fitting underwear or pantyhose and avoid hot baths during an active infection.

4. Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is actually a yeast infection caused by the same strain of candida that affects other mucous membranes, including the vagina. It’s most often caused by the use of prednisone or other oral corticosteroids as mentioned above. Left untreated, it may spread through the body, including the digestive tract, lungs, liver and heart valves.

Oral candida is communicable. Newborns can get thrush during birth; children can get it from sharing toys with other children; and adults can pass it back and forth through the saliva.

5. Sinus Infections

As with many of these other candida symptoms, sinus infections are common today, and it can be difficult to pinpoint the root of the cause. Candida does affect the sinuses and can result in a persistent cough, post-nasal drip, an increase in congestion, seasonal allergies, and general flu-like symptoms. If you experience consistent problems with your sinuses, it’s time to check for a candida infection!

6. Intestinal Distress

Ongoing intestinal distress is one of the more uncomfortable candida symptoms. Persistent flatulence, burping, bloating, constipation or diarrhea, and stomach cramps may be caused by a lack of healthy bacteria in your digestive tract.

When yeast overtakes the intestines, healthy bacteria are undermanned, and cannot fight off the infection alone. When the bacteria in your gut are out of balance, it’s known as dysbiosis. Many individuals experience dramatic relief of chronic intestinal distress when effectively treating a candida infection.

7. Brain Fog

Along with mood changes and chronic fatigue, brain fog is often overlooked as one of the candida symptoms. However, candida overgrowth can cause a lack of focus, poor physical coordination, difficulty in concentrating on tasks and poor memory.

8. Skin and Nail Fungal Infections

Athlete’s foot and fungal infections in the toenail are common yeast infections, which stem from the same strain of candida. Continued infections may be a sign that you have a systemic candida infection.

9. Hormonal Imbalance

A hormonal imbalance is one of the candida symptoms that presents in many other health conditions. However, it is important to recognize how an infection can cause early menopause, PMS, a low sex drive, migraines, endometriosis, water retention, mood swings and an inability to lose unwanted pounds.

While in the midst of candida overgrowth, your body becomes inflamed, causing the yeast to grow and spread beyond the digestive tract. One of the byproducts of candida actually can mimic estrogen, leading to a serious hormonal imbalance.

How to Get Rid of Candida

1. Do a Cleanse

The candida cleanse helps to rid the body of excess candida through the flushing of the digestive tract, and the introduction of healthy candida fighters found in fermented foods.

You really have two options for a cleanse: a liquids-only cleanse or a more gentle cleanse with food. You may also opt the most thorough gut reboot: starting with the step one cleanse and then move to the step two cleanse. The whole process will set the stage for starting the candida diet as well!

Option One: Liquids-Only Candida Cleanse (Duration 1–2 Days)

Start by making a vegetable broth from organic onions, garlic, celery, kale, sea salt and pure water. Let simmer and strain. Discard the vegetables and refrigerate the broth.

Throughout the day, sip on the warm broth; it’s imperative that you drink lots of water to help your body expel all the toxins in your system. While this is not a long-term cleanse, it can be repeated as needed every few weeks. It can also be used as a jumpstart to the food cleanse below.

Option Two: Steamed Vegetables (Duration 3–5 Days)

By eliminating grains, sugars, fruits, starches and alcohol from your diet for three to five days, you can make great headway in your fight against candida overgrowth.

Mostly, eat fresh, organic vegetables that have been steamed. For this cleanse stage, keep away from any starchy vegetables like carrots, radishes, beets, sweet potatoes and white potatoes, which may contribute to sugar levels and feed the candida. Continue to drink plenty of pure water, a minimum of 72 ounces per day, to help flush the candida and byproducts from your system.

During this time — no more than once a day — you can eat salads made from leafy greens (like romaine) or bitter greens (like chard) and topped with just a bit of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).

During either of the candida cleanses above, you can use bentonite clay to help surround the toxins and efficiently remove them from your system.

2. Follow a Candida Diet

This is a diet to not just discourage candida; it’s the diet to help you rid your body of candida! This is also a great next step if you have already started with the candida cleanse.

1. The first step of the diet is to boost your immune system through the elimination of sugar, alcohol and refined carbohydrates. These items are contributing to the growth of the candida in your system.

2. Step two is to replace these foods with organic vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and asparagus.

According to ancient Chinese medicine, warm starchy vegetables support the spleen in clearing candida from the body. While I don’t recommend these vegetables during the “cleanse” stage, the regular candida diet includes warming fall vegetables that nourish the spleen, such as sweet potatoes, yams, peas, mung beans, lentils, kidney beans, adzuki beans, carrots, beets, corn, butternut squash, spaghetti squash, acorn squash, zucchini, yellow squash, rutabaga and pumpkin. These should be the main sources of carbs that satisfy your cravings for sweets as well.

What about grains? Some grains like quinoa, barley, teff, sorghum and amaranth and a starch like corn can help to dry the overly damp gut, so one serving a day (no more!) of those grains can work for most people with candida.

The same story follows for cold foods, which shouldn’t be consumed more than once per day. Therefore, don’t have a gut-friendly smoothie on the same day you have a salad. Your candida gut will heal most from warm nourishing foods.

As with any food, however, it’s always important to monitor how you feel after consuming a meal when you have candida. Some people who suffer stomach distress after eating any kind of starch, for instance, should avoid starchy vegetables like corn, peas, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkin, squash, zucchini and yams. Instead, they should eat non-starchy vegetables — typically the flowering parts of the plant — like lettuce, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, spinach, mushrooms, onions, peppers and tomatoes.

Also, keep fruit intake low as well as natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

3. Add cultured dairy, preferably goat milk kefir, because healthy probiotic foods can effectively kill the candida in your system. Probiotics like kimchi and sauerkraut are good additions to your diet, as well as unsweetened cranberry juice, because they create an acidic environment that makes it difficult for candida to thrive.

Fermented foods contain microflora that help to protect the intestines. Regular consumption of fermented foods can help improve the immune system, making the body less hospitable for candida. Begin with a half cup per day of sauerkraut, kimchi or other fermented vegetables as part of a new eating plan dedicated to bringing your body back into a healthy balance.

The candida diet helps to provide beneficial bacteria, regulate appetite, and reduce your cravings for refined carbohydrates and sugars.

3. Add Supplements, Essential Oils and Coconut Oil

Research shows that C. albicans, the strain of candida that leads to systemic candida overgrowth is often resistant to both fluconazole and itraconazole, the antifungal medicines most often prescribed for candida.

1. Coconut oil can effectively fight candida due to its antimicrobial properties. The combination of lauric acid and caprylic acid found in coconut oil, kills off harmful candida through both ingestion and topical application.

2. Milk thistle supplements help to cleanse your liver from prescription medications (steroids, birth control, antibiotics, as well as others), environmental pollution, heavy metals, and the remnants from both chemotherapy and radiation.

As mentioned above, some prescription medications and cancer treatments can lead to candida overgrowth. Milk thistle, along with the candida diet, can help your body recover and create an environment where candida ceases to thrive.

3. Vitamin C helps to boost adrenal glands and helps to restore your immune system. I recommend 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C two or three times per day, taking a total of 2,000 to 3,000 milligrams daily.

4. Clove oil, oregano oil and myrrh oil help to kill a variety of parasites and fungi, including candida, in the body. Lavender oil also inhibits the growth of candida and is effective at preventing the spread of the infection.

For example, by adding a couple of drops of clove oil or lavender oil mixed with coconut oil during your cleanse, you can help to kill off the offending candida. Because these essential oils are powerful, they should only be taken internally for 10 days or less.

Also, for oral thrush, use three drops of clove oil with one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish in the mouth for 20 minutes.

Do not give clove oil internally to children under 2 years of age. If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your natural health care provider before taking clove oil internally.

Candida Die-Off Symptoms You May Experience

Rapidly killing off candida in your body creates a metabolic reaction that releases over 70 different toxins into your body. Symptoms that show the candida cleanse and the candida diet are working include:

• Impaired brain function
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Intestinal distress including bloating, gas, constipation and nausea
• Sweating and fever
• Sinus infection
• Skin breakouts (not limited to face)
• Typical flu-like symptoms

When you start experiencing the candida die-off symptoms, rejoice! These symptoms usually clear up in seven to 10 days. The candida is leaving your body, and within just a few weeks, you will notice an increase in energy and focus, as well as relief from other symptoms you have experienced.

After your symptoms have subsided and you have completed the cleanse and the diet, you should continue eating a diet that is high in protein and high-fiber vegetables, and limit grains, fruits, sugar and high-starch vegetables like white potatoes. Continue to consume fermented vegetables and kefir to help your body stay in balance and keep the candida at bay. Prevention is key.

The post Symptoms of Candida Overgrowth & How to Get Rid of It appeared first on Dr. Axe.

It’s well-known that probiotics, available from both fermented foods and supplements, support digestion and gut function. Can probiotics also improve mental health?

A new study suggests there are benefits of probiotics for people dealing with depression. How so? A little known fact is that certain gut bacteria are linked to depression, while others are associated with improved moods, neuron activity and cognitive function.

This makes sense, considering that probiotics in the gut can support neurotransmitter function. Neurotransmitters are the brain’s messengers that control one’s mood, energy, appetite and more.

Study Findings: Probiotics for Depression

A 2022 randomized, controlled trial published in the journal Translational Psychiatry found evidence that probiotics can function as a promising new treatment approach for major depressive disorder (MDD).

Probiotics are defined as “microorganisms introduced into the body for their beneficial qualities.” They’re known to have an effect on the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis, also called the “gut-brain connection.” This gives probiotics the ability to impact physiological and behavioral functions that are associated with depression.

This particular study sought out to determine whether short-term, high-dose probiotic supplementation could reduce depressive symptoms by causing gut microbial and neural changes in depressed patients. Patients who were struggling with depressive episodes took either a multi-strain probiotic supplement or a placebo for one month (31 days) in addition to completing their usual treatments.

Participants completed an assessment of their symptoms before and after the probiotic intervention using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Microbiome profiling and neuroimaging scans were also used to detect changes in the participants’ gut-brain axis.

Among those who took the probiotics, it was found that microbial diversity and abundance of the probiotic strain called Lactobacillus were both increased. These increases were associated with decreased depressive symptoms.

Another finding was that activation of certain neurons associated with depression was significantly decreased after the probiotic intervention.

In conclusion, data from the study indicate that probiotics taken in addition to other treatments can help decrease depressive symptoms due to changing gut microbiota and brain activities. Researchers involved in the study consider probiotic treatments to be an “accessible, pragmatic, and non-stigmatizing” approach to supporting mental health.

Other Probiotics Benefits

So what probiotic is good for depression?

The study mentioned above found that Lactobacillus seems to be supportive of mental health. Bacillus coagulans has been shown in other studies to improve depressive symptoms in patients with a combined diagnosis of MDD and irritable bowel syndrome.

On the other hand, increased abundance of Ruminococcus gauvreauii and decreased abundance of Bacteroides are thought to increase one’s risk for depression.

Can probiotics increase serotonin?

Some studies, and one systematic review, have found that certain probiotics present in the gastrointestinal tract may improve central nervous system symptoms associated with depression by increasing production of free tryptophan, which is then converted to serotonin. So yes, it’s possible that a healthy gut helps to boost serotonin production, which improves someone’s mood.

What other benefits do probiotics have?

In addition to supporting mental health, probiotics can help:

• Support gut lining integrity, which is important for immune health and immune defenses.
• Help with absorption of essential nutrients and synthesis of some vitamins and proteins.
• Promote healthy digestion, including by limiting occasional diarrhea, gas and bloating.
• Support a healthy body weight.

Other Natural Ways to Combat Depression

Aside from eating a healthy diet that contains probiotics and/or supplementing with probiotics, other natural depression remedies include:

• Exercising regularly, which releases “feel good” endorphins.
• Getting enough sleep (seven to nine hours per night) and sticking to a regular sleep-wake schedule.
• Exposing yourself to nature and sunlight during the day, which can boost your energy and help regulate your circadian rhythm.
• Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns.
• Eating more fruits and vegetables, omega-3 foods, healthy fats like nuts and olive oil, and quality proteins.
• Limiting intake of processed foods, such as sugary drinks, sweetened desserts, fried foods, processed meats and refined grains.
• Supplementing with vitamin D3, B vitamins and possibly herbs, such as St. John’s wort.
• Potentially taking medications for depression, such as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which include drugs like Celexa, Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil.

Conclusion

• A new study found that probiotic supplementation for one month had positive effects on gut and brain functions — and therefore helped reduce depressive symptoms.
• Is Lactobacillus good for depression? Yes, it appears that higher levels of Lactobacillus and Bacillus coagulans can help support mental health.
• For the best results, probiotic supplements should be combined with other depression treatments, such as therapy, a healthy diet, exercise, sunlight exposure and a regular sleep schedule.

The post Study Finds Benefits of Probiotics for Depression appeared first on Dr. Axe.

As more Americans are affected by poor diet choices, chronic stress, toxic overload and bacterial imbalance, it appears that the prevalence of leaky gut is potentially reaching epidemic proportions. The medical profession is just now agreeing this condition even exists, which is especially shocking considering that “intestinal permeability” (another name for leaky gut) has been discussed in the medical literature for over 100 years!

Why should leaky gut syndrome concern you? In recent years, leaky gut has been called a “danger signal for autoimmune disease.”

In this article, I outline a brief description of common leaky gut syndrome symptoms seen in people struggling with this condition. I also recommend a four-step process to help promote healing — including trigger foods to remove from your diet and beneficial supplements to add in.

What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, said, “All disease begins in the gut.” More than two millennia after his death, scientific research has now proven he was on to something all those years ago.

For over three decades, study after study has been published (several thousand articles exist to date) discussing our growing understanding of immunity, gut function, and how modern diets and lifestyles negatively contribute to overall health by damaging the digestive system.

I (and many others in the medical field) refer to this particular phenomenon as leaky gut syndrome. In the medical literature, leaky gut is also referred to as “increased intestinal hyperpermeability.”

What Happens When You Have Leaky Gut?

The intestines are protected by a single layer of specialized epithelial cells that are linked together by tight junction (or TJ) proteins. As one 2020 review explains, leaky gut symptoms are a consequence of intestinal TJ malfunction.

These TJ proteins are the gateway between your intestines and your bloodstream. They control what is allowed to pass into the bloodstream from your digestive system. More than 40 different TJ proteins have now been recognized to play a role in gut health.

TJ proteins have a very precise job. They have to maintain the delicate balance between allowing vital nutrients to enter your bloodstream, while remaining small enough to prevent xenobiotics (disease-causing substances like toxins and bacteria) from passing out of your digestive system into the rest of your body.

Here’s how a report published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology describes the pathology of intestinal permeability:

The intestinal epithelial lining, together with factors secreted from it, forms a barrier that separates the host from the environment. In pathologic conditions, the permeability of the epithelial lining may be compromised allowing the passage of toxins, antigens, and bacteria in the lumen to enter the bloodstream creating a “leaky gut.”

Symptoms (Plus Related Conditions)

According to one review focusing on medically reviewed research about intestinal permeability (among other sources), the chronic condition of hyperpermeability may be linked to numerous symptoms and health conditions, including some autoimmune diseases.

What are the symptoms of leaky gut? Some of the most prominent signs you may have this condition include:

• Gastric ulcers
• Joint pain
• Infectious diarrhea
• Irritable bowel syndrome 
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
• Small intestine bacterial overgrowth
• Celiac disease
• Esophageal and colorectal cancer
• Allergies
• Respiratory infections
• Acute inflammation conditions (sepsis, SIRS, multiple organ failure)
• Chronic inflammatory conditions (such as arthritis)
• Thyroid disorders
• Obesity-related metabolic diseases (fatty liver, type II diabetes, heart disease)
• Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes, Hashimoto’s and more)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Propensity toward weight gain or obesity

Leaky gut may not directly cause any of these conditions — it’s more that people who have gut issues are more likely to have a number of other health problems. So while the scientific evidence has not yet proven that increased intestinal hyperpermeability is actually responsible for these conditions, it strongly suggests that leaky gut and other dysfunctions tend to occur simultaneously.

Here’s more about some of these problems can develop due to gut dysfunction:

1. Food Sensitivities

Some research suggests that intestinal hyperpermeability can cause the immune system to overproduce various antibodies, which may make some more susceptible to antigens in certain foods (especially gluten and dairy). In studies involving rats and human children, leaky gut and food allergies have been linked. Allergies are believed to be one of the most common symptoms.

2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Researchers from Hungary uncovered in 2012 that elevated gut permeability is oftentimes localized to the colon in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis. As far back as 1988, scientists suggested that Crohn’s disease may be more of a risk for people with leaky gut.

A small study (observing 12 patients) discovered that zinc supplementation may help resolve the TJ dysfunction in these cases, although more medically reviewed research is required on a larger scale to confirm these results.

3. Autoimmune Disease

The key to understanding how leaky gut can cause autoimmune diseases is through research done on a protein known as “zonulin.” According to a one article published in the journal Physiologic Reviews:

Zonulin is the only physiological modulator of intercellular tight junctions described so far that is involved in trafficking of macromolecules and, therefore, in tolerance/immune response balance. When the finely tuned zonulin pathway is deregulated in genetically susceptible individuals, both intestinal and extraintestinal autoimmune, inflammatory, and neoplastic disorders can occur.

Eating certain food allergens, such as gluten, may trigger this dangerous cascade. University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers uncovered that gluten “activates zonulin signaling irrespective of the genetic expression of autoimmunity, leading to increased intestinal permeability to macromolecules.”

The good news is that it seems possible to reverse these autoimmune reactions’ problematic immune responses.

4. Thyroid Problems

One of the autoimmune diseases that leaky gut syndrome may directly affect is Hashimoto’s disease. Also known as “chronic thyroiditis,” this disorder is displayed with hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), impaired metabolism, fatigue, depression, weight gain and a host of other concerns.

5. Nutrient Malabsorption

In my patients I saw at my Nashville chiropractic clinic from 2007 to 2014, I observed various nutritional deficiencies resulting from leaky gut, including vitamin B12, magnesium and digestive enzymes. Those common nutrient deficiencies are one reason why many functional medicine practitioners prescribe a whole-food multivitamin in addition to probiotics for people suffering from this condition.

6. Inflammatory Skin Conditions

First described over 70 years ago, the “gut-skin connection theory” describes how increased intestinal hyperpermeability can cause a slew of skin conditions, particularly acne and psoriasis. Creams and drugs with endless lists of (sometimes dangerous) side effects are often prescribed for these skin disorders, yet there has been evidence for several decades that part of the root cause might exist in the gut.

7. Mood Issues and Autism

According to a study published in the journal Neuroendocrinology Letters, intestinal permeability has been shown to contribute to various neurocognitive disorders. For example, the inflammatory response characteristic of intestinal hyperpermeability triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other chemicals that are thought to induce depression.

A study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience described the “vicious circle between immune system impairment and increasing dysbiosis that leads to leaky gut and neurochemical compounds and/or neurotoxic xenobiotics production and absorption.”

The authors go on to describe findings from a number of studies that point to their theory that autism may be connected to problems in the microbiome, particularly within the first year of life. It is actually now a common hypothesis in modern science.

Causes

What is the main cause of leaky gut? As explained above, it occurs when certain tiny particles that should never be able to enter your bloodstream start to make their way through due to dysfunction of the mucosal barrier in the gut.

There also commonly are abnormalities in the gut stemming from antimicrobial molecules, immunoglobulins and cytokine activities. This presents a major problem, as the vast majority of your immune system is found inside the gut (sometimes called the microbiome).

The result is a disruption of acute inflammation and sometimes autoimmune reactions. A normal part of your immune response that serves to fight infections and diseases winds up over-performing, leading to chronic inflammation, which is at the root of most diseases.

Some of the underlying causes of leaky gut include:

• Genetic predisposition — Certain people may be more predisposed to developing this condition because they are sensitive to environmental factors that “trigger” their bodies into initiating autoimmune responses.
• Poor diet — Especially a diet that includes allergens and inflammatory foods, such as unsprouted grains, added sugar, GMOs, refined oils, synthetic food additives, conventional dairy products and alcohol.
• Chronic stress
• Toxin overload — This includes “chronic stressors,” such as high drug and alcohol consumption. We come into contact with over 80,000 chemicals and toxins every single year, but the worst offenders for causing leaky gut include antibiotics, pesticides, tap water, aspirin and NSAIDs. I recommend buying a high-quality water filter to eliminate chlorine and fluoride and look to natural plant-based herbs to reduce inflammation in your body.
• Bacterial imbalance — Also called dysbiosis, which means an imbalance between beneficial and harmful species of bacteria in your gut. A large body of evidence now shows that gut microbiota is important in supporting the epithelial barrier and preventing autoimmune reactions. At least 10 percent of all gene transcriptions found in intestinal epithelial cells that are related to immunity, cell proliferation and metabolism are regulated by gut microbiota.

Medical Definition/Research

Do most conventional doctors support the idea that leaky gut is real? Not exactly, as it the topic remains controversial.

WebMD refers to leaky gut as “something of a medical mystery.” This isn’t surprising, since it’s not a diagnosis that most doctors have been taught in medical school.

“From an MD’s standpoint, it’s a very gray area,” says gastroenterologist Donald Kirby, MD – director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the Cleveland Clinic. In his opinion, “Physicians don’t know enough about the gut, which is our biggest immune system organ.”

However, a roundtable review quotes the researchers at seven different European universities in 2014 agreeing upon the following:

Alteration of the gut barrier seems to have multiple consequences facilitating the onset of a variety of diseases depending on other hits and on genetic or epigenetic constellations, respectively. The growing significance of the gut barrier and bacterial translocation raises the questions of how we can improve gut barrier functions and gut microbiota.

While it’s encouraging that science is coming around to leaky gut syndrome being a real problem, we are by no means at a point where there are standard diagnostic tools for testing and treating this problem. This means that MDs are often left with no other choice than to follow what they believe to be the “safe path” and prescribe drugs that only treat symptoms.

For example, medications (like proton pump inhibitors or antacids) can be used to manage symptoms like acid reflux medications, but these drugs don’t solve the root problem.

Because there is so much unknown about leaky gut syndrome, it’s critical that you understand what leaky gut is and what to look out for in case you or a loved one is affected by it. The good news is that many functional and integrative medicine practitioners have a greater understanding of this condition than they did even a decade ago.

How to Get Rid of Leaky Gut (Treatment)

Several leaky gut syndrome tests are available that can help confirm a diagnosis and point you in the right treatment direction. Tests are helpful for identifying specific sensitivities and uncovering which types of toxins or deficiencies are contributing to your symptoms.

Available tests include:

• Zonulin or Lactulose Tests
• IgG Food Intolerance Test
• Stools Tests
• Organic Acid Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies Tests
• Lactulose Mannitol Test

What leaky gut treatments are available?

After years of research and patient care, I developed a four-step process for helping treat leaky gut. I cover this process in my leaky gut diet and treatment plan.

If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may have this condition, I encourage you to read the detailed instructions, food suggestions and recommended supplements listed in that article.

The basic steps to healing leaky gut are as follows:

1. Remove foods and factors that damage the gut.
2. Replace these with healing foods that apart of an anti-inflammatory diet.
3. Repair the gut with specific leaky gut supplements like butyric acid.
4. Rebalance your microbiome with probiotics (beneficial bacteria). This is key because bacteria in your microbiome are a major component of the intestinal barrier. They help promote resistance to the colonization of harmful or pathogenic bacteria species by competing for nutrients. Microbiota also regulate the digestion and absorption of nutrients and help supply epithelial cells with energy.

Two of the most common questions people ask are:

• What can I eat if I have leaky gut syndrome?
• What should I NOT eat when I have leaky gut?

If you’re struggling with gastrointestinal issues, start by removing processed foods— including unsprouted grains, added sugar, GMOs, refined oils, synthetic additives and conventional dairy products. A healing diet includes foods like:

• Bone broth
• Raw cultured dairy (like kefir, yogurt, amasai, butter and raw cheeses)
• Fermented vegetables and other probiotics foods. Probiotics may help reverse leaky gut by enhancing the production of tight junction proteins that defend against intestinal permeability.
• Coconut products
• Sprouted seeds (like chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seeds)
• Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, especially salmon and other wild-caught fish
• Herbs and spices
• Other nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, like grass-fed beef, lamb, other fresh veggies, most fruits, apple cider vinegar, sea veggies and other superfoods

Conclusion

• Leaky gut syndrome, also called intestinal permeability, is classified by malfunction in the intestinal tight junctions in the digestive tract. When this occurs, inflammatory immune responses can increase, leading to a host of health issues.
• What are the signs of a leaky gut? Although no causal relationships have yet been officially established, it’s linked with symptoms and conditions including digestive disorders, depression, autism, celiac disease, joint pain, skin inflammation, autoimmune disease and more.
• What is the fastest way to treat leaky gut? Remove foods and factors that damage the gut, and replace these with healing foods. In addition, repair the gut with specific supplements like butyric acid, and rebalance your microbiome with probiotics.
• If you suffer from this condition, I encourage you to consult with your naturopathic doctor about options for treatment.

The post Leaky Gut Syndrome: 7 Signs You May Have It appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition where undigested proteins like gluten, toxins and microbes can pass into the bloodstream. Another name for this condition is “intestinal permeability,” which means the “tight junctions” or the gateway between the intestinal wall and bloodstream have been damaged and are allowing the undigested particles to pass through the intestinal wall.

When these particles enter the bloodstream, it will cause system-wide inflammation and can initiate an immune response in the body. Over time, if leaky gut is not healed, it can lead to food sensitivities, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, skin issues like eczema, hypothyroidism, adrenal fatigue, depression, anxiety, ADHD, nutrient malabsorption and autoimmune disease.

Most doctors will tell you that repairing leaky gut is difficult and it takes time, but for most people who follow my leaky gut diet and treatment plan, it’s possible to see results fast.

Along with changing your diet, taking the right supplements can make a big difference in fixing leaky gut. These are the 11 key leaky gut supplements that I have recommended to my patients for years that you may consider adding into your daily health routine.

Top 10 Leaky Gut Supplements

1. Probiotics

In my opinion, supplementing with a high-quality probiotic is absolutely necessary for gut health today, especially for people with signs of a leaky gut. This is why I will give more attention to this section than the other 9, because without a viable probiotic solution, it’s virtually impossible to repair leaky gut.

In my guide on probiotics benefits, I highlight the importance of learning about the different types of strains of probiotic, and why the probiotic benefits experienced with one probiotic strain may be completely different from the health benefits seen from another probiotic.

Case in point: certain strains of probiotics enhance immune function, whereas, others promote health or hormone balance. It’s always best to take specific strains according to the benefit that you need. This will help you maximize the natural healing benefits for your needs. So, instead of taking a “multivitamin” approach and filling your body with all sorts of bacteria that you may not need, be selective and strategic about what strains you decide to take.

When reading probiotics labels keep a look out for the genus, species, and strain. The label should also indicate the type of CFU’s (colony forming units) that are present at the time of manufacturing. When purchasing a probiotic supplement always consider these key aspects:

Brand Quality: Chose companies that you trust and that you know use higher quality ingredients.

High CFU Count: Make sure that you only take a probiotic that has at least 50 billion CFUs.

Strain Diversity: Also, look for a supplement with multiple bacterial strains.

Survivability: Keep a look out for beneficial strains like:

• Bacillus clausii (1)
• Bacillus subtilis (2)
• Saccharomyces boulardii (3)
• Bacillus coagulans (4)
• Lactobacillus plantarum (5)
• Lactobacillus paracasei (6)
• Bifidobacterium bifidum (7)
• Bifidobacterium longum (8)
• Bifidobacterium breve (9)
• Bifidobacterium infantis (10)
• Lactobacillus casei (11)
• Lactobacillus acidophilus (12)
• Lactobacillus bulgaricus (13)
• Lactobacillus brevis (14)
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus (15)

Recommended Daily Intake: For most people, taking 2–4 capsules of high-quality probiotic capsules daily is the recommended dose. You may also be able to find a leaky gut formulation that contains probiotics in addition to other gut-supporting ingredients.

2. Fiber

Almost equally important as probiotics, fiber ranks as No. 2 on my list. Most people don’t realize this, but without fiber, probiotics cannot live. Essentially indigestible fibers (i.e. prebiotics) are the food the helps probiotic bacteria thrive in our gut. (16)

This is why a diet rich in high-fiber foods like sprouted chia seeds, sprouted flaxseeds and sprouted hemp seeds is so important. If you have severe leaky gut, however, you may need to start out getting your fiber from steamed vegetables and fruit if your gut is extremely sensitive. If you gut isn’t overly sensitive, aim for 30–40 grams of fiber daily.

3. Enzymes

For the greatest digestive benefit, take one or two capsules of digestive enzyme supplements before and after your meal. Enzymes help completely break down proteins, complex sugars and starches, which can in turn reduce intestinal inflammation.

I would recommend a full spectrum enzyme supplement that contains the following:

• Protease — breaks down proteins (including gluten)
• Amylase — breaks down starches
• Lipase — breaks down fats
• Lactase — breaks down lactose in dairy

Also, there are specific enzymes that support the body in breaking down certain types of food. If you know you have a gluten or dairy intolerance, you can buy a formula that helps with that specific issue.

4. L-Glutamine

An essential amino acid, the anti-inflammatory L-glutamine contains some significant health benefits including repairing the gut and intestinal lining. Glutamine is used as fuel by the cells that line the intestines to keep them healthy — and can help repair leaky gut, in particular. (17)

In addition, stress can deplete your glutamine levels and leave you vulnerable to leaky gut — another reason to supplement with L-glutamine.

5. Licorice Root

One of my favorite adoptogenic herbs is licorice root. Proven to help increase hormone availability, this tasty root can also alleviate adrenal fatigue because it aids in the absorption and metabolism of cortisol. (18)

Licorice root can also help support the body’s natural processes for maintaining the mucosal lining of the stomach and duodenum. It is especially beneficial if someone’s leaky gut is being caused by emotional stress.

Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which has been known to cause edema and hypertension when taken in very large quantities. However, based on body weight, up to about 6-18 grams per day should help avoid any side effects. (19) Most licorice root or gut formulated supplements only contain between 500 milligrams – 1 gram per dose.

6. Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root acts as a natural antihistamine and is a powerful antioxidant. Combined with ginger, marshmallow root helps to protect from stomach ulcers and generally supports overall gastrointestinal health. (20)

7. Collagen Powder

The secret behind the power of bone broth is collagen, the main supportive proteins that gives bone, cartilage and tendons their strength. Once cooked, it becomes “gelatin.” Supplementing with collagen or gelatin is important because it can help boost your gastric juices and aid is restoring the integrity and health of your mucosal lining. (21)

Collagen also contains the amino acids proline and glycine, which are essential building blocks to repairing damaged intestinal lining. Drink 8–16 ounces of bone broth daily or take 2 tablespoons of collagen protein twice daily, preferably a brand that offers multiple types and sources of collagen.

8. NAG

N-acetyl glucosamine has gain recent popularity in mainstream medicine because it is now widely accepted that it can help protect the lining of your stomach and intestines.

Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, NAG has also been reported to help with osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. (22)

9. Shilajit

Although it might look strange, the black, tar-like substance shilajit is a powerful anti-inflammatory with gut healing benefits. Taking shilajit may help to reduce gut inflammation and protect from gastric ulcers. (23a, 23b)

10. Reishi Mushrooms

Adaptogenic reishi mushrooms can help to positively influence your immune system, most of which is located in your gut. Not only does reishi help to kill dangerous cells that cause diseases (like cancer), they can also protect healthy genes from becoming mutated. (24)

Your immune system also benefits from reishi because of the way these mushrooms support the liver’s efforts in detoxification. (25)

11. Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

With its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, lion’s mane mushroom may improve the function of your stomach and digestive system.

In some animal studies studies, lion’s mane mushroom has been shown to protect from or shrink gastric ulcers. (26) Lion’s mane may also significantly improve symptoms of two major inflammatory disorders of the digestive system, gastritis and inflammatory bowel disease, as indicated in lab studies and research on mice. (27, 28)

The post Top 11 Leaky Gut Supplements appeared first on Dr. Axe.

When it’s at proper levels in the body, candida is a fungus that aids with nutrient absorption and digestion, but when candida overproduces, it can then become a serious concern that causes a wide variety of negative and serious health problems. A yeast-free candida diet is one of the best ways to reduce and eliminate candida symptoms, but what exactly do you need to eliminate from your diet?

Read on and I’ll tell you exactly what to take out of your diet and what to add to get rid of candida for good.

What Is the Candida Diet?

Candidiasis, commonly referred to as “candida,” is a fungal infection that can affect men and women of all ages in various parts of the body. It most commonly occurs in the mouth, ears, nose, toenails, fingernails, gastrointestinal tract and vagina.

Possible symptoms comprise a true laundry list ranging from bad breath to persistent heartburn to arthritis. Due to its many and varied symptoms, candida is often ignored, undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

If you have candida or know someone who does, the good news is that there are many candida natural treatments. The main natural treatment is a change in your diet to discourage the overgrowth of yeast.

Before embarking on your new diet, though, it’s a good idea to start with a candida cleanse to help rid the body of excess candida through flushing the digestive tract.

You have two options for a cleanse: a liquids-only cleanse or a more gentle cleanse with food. You can also start with the step one cleanse and then move to the step two cleanse.

Cleansing Step 1: Liquids-Only Candida Cleanse (Duration 1–2 Days)

Start by making a vegetable broth from organic onions, garlic, celery, kale, sea salt and pure water. Let it simmer and strain. Discard the vegetables, and refrigerate the broth.

Throughout the day, sip on warm broth. It’s imperative that you drink lots of water to help your body expel all the toxins in your system.

While this is not a long-term cleanse, it can be repeated as needed every few weeks. It can also be used as a jump-start to the food cleanse below.

Cleansing Step 2: Steamed Vegetables (Duration 3–5 Days)

By eliminating grains, sugars, fruits, starches and alcohol from your diet for three to five days, you can make great headway in your fight against candida overgrowth.

What can you eat on a candida diet? You should mostly eat:

• Fresh, organic vegetables that have been steamed. For this cleanse stage, keep away from any starchy vegetables like carrots, radishes, beets, sweet potatoes and white potatoes, which may contribute to excess sugar levels and feed the candida.
• Continue to drink plenty of pure water, a minimum of 72 ounces per day, to help flush the candida and byproducts from your system.
• During this time, no more than once a day, you can eat salads made from leafy greens (like romaine) or bitter greens (like chard) and topped with just a bit of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice).

During either of the candida cleanses above, you can use bentonite clay to help surround the toxins and efficiently remove them from your system.

Once you’re done with the cleansing stage, you can then move on to an antifungal diet that doesn’t just discourage candida — it helps your body get rid of candida for good!

Here are the dietary steps I recommend for a candida-free diet:

Diet Step 1: Remove the Problem Foods

Now you know what to eat, but you are likely wondering what not to eat on a candida diet. First and foremost, you need to continue to remove the foods from your diet that literally feed the candida and encourage it to flourish in your body.

The top offenders include:

• sugar
• white flour
• yeast
• alcohol

These items are believed to promote candida overgrowth. If you avoid eating sugar and white flour, then you will easily cut out most processed foods, which tend to be higher in calories and unhealthy ingredients and low in nutrition.

Avoiding sugar in all of its various forms is truly key to fighting candida. The candida yeast cells need sugar to build their cell walls, expand their colonies and switch into their more virulent, fungal form.

This is why a low-sugar diet is such a necessary part of your candida treatment. If you need some help, here’s how to kick your sugar addiction.

Going forward, you want your diet to be centered on:

• vegetables
• high-quality protein foods
• gluten-free grains (like brown rice and millet)

Avoiding fruit at this time is also commonly recommended because even though fruit is very healthy, it does get turned into sugar in the body.

In terms of vegetables, you also want to avoid these somewhat sweet, starchy varieties:

• potatoes
• carrots
• sweet potatoes
• yams
• beets
• peas
• parsnips

These vegetables are banned from a strict anti-candida diet because of their high carbohydrate content, but they’re certainly nutrient-dense and can be reintroduced later on in your treatment.

Diet Step 2: Up the Intake of Candida Killers and Boost Your Immune System

You want to make sure you include the items from my top 10 list below on a daily basis, including:

1. apple cider vinegar
2. green veggies
3. green drinks
4. coconut oil
5. Manuka honey
6. garlic
7. ground chia and flaxseeds
8. unsweetened cranberry juice
9. cultured dairy
10. spices (like turmeric and cinnamon)

How long do I need to eat like this?

In order to have success with the candida diet, it will take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It really depends on the individual and a few key variables:

• how strictly you follow this diet
• the intake and effectiveness of probiotics and antifungals
• the severity of your candida

Diet Step 3: Reintroducing Off-Limit Foods

Once you’re free of your candida symptoms and the candida itself, then what? As I’m sure you guessed, going back to your old habits and ways of eating will likely just bring the candida back all over again.

However, you can gradually reintroduce certain foods into your new candida diet.

Low-sugar fruits like green apples are a great example of a smart choice. If the reintroduced foods don’t cause flare-ups of candida symptoms, you can move on to reintroducing more foods that you have been avoiding.

I recommend doing this reintroduction slowly and one item at a time.

Top Foods

Here are some of the foods you should eat on the candida diet.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

The acid and enzymes in apple cider vinegar have been shown to help to kill and get rid of excess yeast in the body.

2. Green Veggies and Green Drinks

Leafy green vegetables help alkalize the body, which fights against the acidic nature of yeast overgrowth. Research suggests that greens contain no sugars but have high amounts of magnesium that naturally detox the body, vitamin C to build the immune system, chlorophyll to cleanse the body, B vitamins to energize the body and iron to give the body full support.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties, and studies show that the combination of lauric acid and caprylic acid found in coconut oil kills off harmful candida through ingestion and topical application.

4. Stevia

We know that sugar feeds candida. That’s why it’s important to use different sweeteners, and stevia is the perfect choice for those on a candida diet.

Studies indicate that not only is stevia an antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic agent, but it also helps balance the pancreas, which is often compromised when someone has candida.

5. Garlic

Garlic contains a large number of sulphur-containing compounds that have extremely potent, broad-spectrum antifungal properties. Animal studies conclude that raw garlic benefits the fight against candida specifically.

6. Ground Flaxseeds and Chia Seeds

Polyphenols found in flaxseeds and chia seeds have been found to support the growth of probiotics in the gut and may also help eliminate yeast and candida in the body.

7. Unsweetened Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice without added sugar has been shown to help correct the pH levels of urine, helping prevent the overgrowth of fungi like candida.

8. Kefir

Goat milk kefir has displayed antibacterial and anti-candida effects in animal studies.

9. Spices like Turmeric and Cinnamon

Turmeric contains an active component called curcumin that has been shown to completely inhibit the growth of Candida albicans (as well as lots of other fungal strains). Cinnamon can treat oral thrush because studies have shown that people who supplement with cinnamon generally suffer from less candida overgrowth than those who don’t.

10. Cooked Vegetables

Non-starchy, cooked vegetables — such as broccoli, cauliflower and asparagus — provide valuable nutrients that fight candida.

11. Organic Meat

Protein plays a key role in candida. If you get your protein from factory-farmed meats, you could actually feed candida, while research suggests that foods high in healthy fats and protein protect against candida. That’s why it’s so important to consume only organic, free-range meat.

12. Bone Broth

Bone broth benefits so many different aspects of our health, and you can add treating candida to the list. In fact, it’s one of the best food sources to destroy candida due to its positive effects on gut health.

13. Pau D’arco Tea

Pau d’arco tea is probably the No. 1 thing to add to your candida diet. It helps the body fight candida the natural way.

That’s because it’s proven to have antifungal compounds like lapachol, which has been shown to combat candida.

Foods to Avoid

Here are the foods to avoid on the candida diet.

1. Sugar and Sugar Alternatives

These sweet items feed yeast, so you should avoid them at all costs.

2. Fruit and Fruit Juice

Even though fruit is generally healthy, it’s high in sugar and can make candida worse.

3. Alcohol

Most alcohol contains yeast so it’s not surprising that it produces more of it when consumed. It should be avoided.

4. Grains

Grains break down into sugar and can feed candida, yeast and bad bacteria.

5. Vinegar

All types of vinegar should be avoided with candida overgrowth, except for apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is the only vinegar that provides an alkalizing benefit for the body and actually causes candida to die.

6. Peanuts

Peanuts can often carry mold, which only encourages the growth of candida. Plus, the peanut allergy is one of the most common food allergies on the planet, providing another reason to avoid peanuts.

7. Dairy

Unless it’s fermented, you ideally want to avoid dairy at least in the early stages of your cleansing. Milk contains lactose, which is a sugar.

8. Food Intolerances

Some yeast infections are due to food allergies. Try to avoid foods that cause negative reactions of any kind.

If you think you have a food allergy or sensitivity, try an elimination diet to figure out what foods are causing intolerances.

Other foods to avoid include:

• Dried fruits
• Bananas
• Ice drinks

Essential Oils for Candida

Some of the best oils to fight candida are:

• oregano oil
• myrrh oil
• lavender oil
• clove oil

These help kill a variety of parasites and fungi, including candida, in the body. Lavender oil has been proven to inhibit the growth of candida and is effective at preventing the spread of the infection.

By mixing a couple of drops of clove oil or lavender oil with coconut oil during your cleanse, you can help to kill off the offending candida. However, since these essential oils are powerful, they should only be taken internally for 10 days or less.

For oral thrush, you can use three drops of clove oil with one tablespoon of coconut oil and swish the mixture in your mouth for 20 minutes. This oil pulling is excellent for killing candida and overall detoxification of the body.

Best Supplements

These supplements can help aid your candida diet:

1. Probiotics (50 billion units daily)

Give your body healthy bacteria, which can help reduce the presence of yeast.

2. Oregano oil (2 drops 3 times daily for 7 days then stop)

Oregano oil is naturally antibacterial and antifungal.

3. Garlic (2 caps or cloves daily)

Helps fight fungal infections and boost the immune system.

4. Vitamin C (1,000 milligrams, 2–3 times daily)

Boosts immune function and helps fight off infections.

5. Grapefruit seed extract (200 milligrams, 2–3 times per day)

Pure grapefruit seed extract can kill all kinds of infectious microbes and even helps combat common health issues like candida and athlete’s foot.

6. Turkey Tail Mushroom  (1 gram, 2–3 times daily)

Also known as Trametes versicolor, research published in Frontiers in Microbiology relays that turkey tail’s antimicrobial activities can help treat candida. In addition, the prebiotics in turkey tail assist the microbiome and help food bacteria grow, improving gut health overall.

7. Astragalus Root (1 gram, 2–3 times daily)

Another supplement good for healthy gut microflora, animal research shows how astragalus can alter gut microbiota and increase beneficial bacteria. Thus, it can fight candida and other fungi while maintaining a healthy microbiome.

In addition you can use the following herbs to treat candida:

• olive leaf
• other mushrooms

A 2003 in vitro study out of Israel showed that olive leaf extracts have an antimicrobial effect against bacteria and fungi. Olive leaf extracts killed almost all bacteria tested, including dermatophytes (causing infections on the skin, hair and nails), candida albicans (an agent of oral and genital infections) and Escherichia coli cells (bacteria found in the lower intestine).

Meal Plan and Recipes

You definitely want to eat a mix of raw and cooked vegetables while on the candida diet. The idea is to crowd in candida-friendly foods, while pushing out the ones that promote candida growth.

Here’s a sample day to get you started:

• Breakfast: Egg and vegetable omelet with broccoli, onions, salt and pepper
• Snack: Trail mix with almonds, walnuts and macadamia nuts
• Lunch: Grilled chicken over salad with spinach, almond slices, avocado and lemon dressing
• Snack: Cup of real bone broth or green tea
• Dinner: Filet of wild salmon, seasoned with cilantro and over a bed a massaged kale and olive oil dressing
• Dessert: Piece of high-quality dark chocolate

When it comes to recipes, you of course want ones that leave out all of the candida-promoting foods listed above, while including as many of the candida killers as possible.

• This Green Detox Machine Juice Recipe is a great inclusion for any anti-candida diet.
• This Buddha Bowl with high-quality steak, leafy greens and vegetables is a great option for when you’ve begun reintroducing an array of veggies into your diet.
• This Salmon Kale Salad is made with fresh salmon filet and a simple lemon dressing.

Precautions: Candida Die-Off Symptoms

Rapidly killing off candida in your body creates a metabolic reaction that releases over 70 different toxins into your body. Sounds pretty intense, right?

Before you get scared off, what you may or may not have to deal with as a result of candida die-off is definitely preferable to what you have to deal with if you let the candida continue to internally flourish.

Symptoms that show the candida cleanse and the candida diet are working include:

• Impaired brain function
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Intestinal distress, including bloating, gas, constipation and nausea
• Sweating and fever
• Sinus infection
• Skin breakouts (not limited to face)
• Typical flu-like symptoms

These symptoms usually clear up in seven to 10 days. The candida is leaving your body, and within just a few weeks, you will notice an increase in energy and focus, as well as relief from other symptoms you have experienced.

If you experience chronic or unusually persistent candida infections, you should consult your health care provider. This could be a sign of an underlying illness, such as diabetes or immune system dysfunction, which makes for an environment more conducive to the growth of candida.

Final Thoughts

• Candida is unfortunately a very common problem for many people. Symptoms are often ignored, undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
• An antifungal diet can reduce and eliminate candida and its unpleasant symptoms. Some of the diet changes might end up needing to be long term if reintroduction of certain foods isn’t successful.
• Your improved health and energy levels will be well worth any food or drink that you might miss.
• In general, it will always be best for your overall health to avoid sugary and processed foods. Real, whole, living foods are your best bet, always!

The post Candida Diet: The Foods & Supplements to Eat (and Avoid) to Treat Candida appeared first on Dr. Axe.

If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gastrointestinal (GI) issues — diarrhea, nausea, pain and bloating — the cause may be right on your plate. Gluten, the main protein in wheat and other grains, causes serious reactions in millions of people. And it affects more of us all the time.

But it didn’t used to.

For thousands of years, people all over the world ate wheat without suffering any consequences. But over the past few decades, both celiac disease and gluten intolerances have begun affecting huge numbers of people, especially in the U.S.

Which begs the question: How did this global staple food turn toxic for so many of us? The answer may not be the gluten itself, but the chemicals used to grow, treat, and harvest the wheat.

What’s Your Gluten Issue?

Gluten can affect your health in three ways:

• Wheat/gluten allergy: An immediate, severe immune system response to wheat and the proteins it contains, but without lasting damage to the body
• Gluten intolerance (also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity): A condition that causes dozens of symptoms but no autoimmune response when you consume gluten
• Celiac disease: An autoimmune condition where even tiny amounts of gluten trigger an attack on your small intestine

Wheat allergies are uncommon, especially in adults, but can be life-threatening. Celiac disease causes lifelong health issues in millions of people, about 1.4 percent of the world population. Gluten intolerance is by far the most common issue, but it’s hard to pin down the numbers.

Researchers estimate that around 6 percent of people suffer with this condition, but that’s probably on the low side.

Both wheat allergy and celiac disease can be diagnosed with existing medical tests — though the results in celiac tests aren’t always accurate. Gluten intolerance is harder to diagnose because there’s no real test for it. It’s more of a non-diagnosis: People who test negative for celiac disease but feel better after eliminating gluten from their diets, are considered gluten intolerant.

Do You Have These Symptoms?

People first begin to realize they may have gluten issues when they start having GI problems.

All three conditions listed above can cause GI issues including diarrhea, constipation, gas,
bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. But gluten intolerance and celiac disease can
also cause some surprising and seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as:

• Headaches
• Depression and anxiety
• Joint pain
• Bone loss
• Chronic fatigue
• Brain fog
• Memory lapses
• Itchy rashes

And unlike allergies and intolerances, celiac disease does lasting damage to the body. It injures the protective gut barrier, which can lead to severe malnutrition. Celiac also triggers system-wide chronic inflammation, setting the stage for other disease states to move in.

The main treatment for all three conditions is avoiding wheat and gluten. But that’s not as easy as it sounds, and it doesn’t always work.

A “Gluten-Free” Diet May Not Be Enough

Going gluten-free should be easy, but it’s not. For one thing, studies show that foods labeled as gluten-free often contain gluten. In one study, researchers detected gluten in 32% of 5,624 foods labeled gluten-free. In fact, 53% of gluten-free pizzas and 51% of gluten-free pastas contained gluten. A 2020 mega-study led researchers to report that “foods labeled as gluten-free should not be considered safe” for people who need to avoid gluten.

Second, if you eat somewhere  even in your own home where other people consume gluten, you run a high risk of cross-contamination. That can happen when particles of gluten stick to pots, plates, and utensils also used for gluten-containing foods. And if you’ve ever baked with flour, you know it finds up everywhere.

Third, gluten hides out in the weirdest places. You wouldn’t expect it, but gluten is found in
things like:

• Bouillon cubes
• Ketchup and mustard
• Wine coolers
• Soy sauce
• Instant coffee
• Fruit snacks
• Toothpaste and mouthwash
• Medications
• Vitamins

Even if you do manage to stay 100% gluten-free, it may not be enough to heal your gut — at least not through diet alone. When you have any level of gluten reactivity, it triggers immune system responses including inflammation that can damage the inner lining of your intestines. Your gut gets a break when you avoid gluten, but that won’t fix the existing damage.

On top of all that, there’s another threat to your recovery: glyphosate. Glyphosate is the most widely used weed killer in the world. It’s used extensively on grain crops (including wheat), along with everything from chickpeas to kale. And while glyphosate might not seem related to your gluten issues, it almost certainly is.

Factor in Celiac Disease: Gluten or Glyphosate?

With gluten-related illnesses on the rise, scientists raced to find out why. Their main suspect was the higher gluten content in modern wheat. But unexpected study results quickly nixed that idea. Researchers found that a high-gluten diet didn’t increase GI symptoms, immune responses, or intestinal inflammation when compared to a low- or no-gluten diet.

So scientists started looking for other causes … and they found one: Glyphosate, a pesticide often used on wheat crops.

Glyphosate toxicity looks a lot like gluten issues. That’s because glyphosate creates the same damaging conditions normally associated with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Because of the way its chemical is designed, glyphosate kills off beneficial bacteria in the gut. It also prevents important cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes from functioning properly … the same enzymes affected in celiac disease.

By inhibiting CYP450 enzymes, glyphosate makes it harder for your body to:

• Clear out toxins on its own
• Form bile acids (crucial for nutrient absorption)
• Produce essential fatty acids
• Activate vitamin D
• Break down vitamin A into usable forms

At the same time, glyphosate decimates the beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut microbiome, but doesn’t hurt pathogenic bacteria. That causes a condition called dysbiosis, where harmful bacteria overgrow and cause destructive imbalance in the gut microbiome.

This combination of effects triggers symptoms very similar to what you’d experience with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. And since glyphosate (along with other pesticides) contaminates dozens of plant foods, going gluten-free can’t fix the whole problem. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be fixed.

A 3-Step Plan to Tackle Gluten and Glyphosate

Since it’s so hard to completely avoid gluten and glyphosate, being proactive is the best way to protect yourself. With this simple three-step plan, you’ll be able to minimize the effects of gluten and glyphosate, whenever they sneak into your diet.

Step 1: Detoxify

To start the healing process, you need to remove these toxins from your system. Even though your body has its own detox process, it needs extra support to deal with the toxic overload of gluten and glyphosate. And because your body is already under stress, you want to use safe, gentle, natural detoxifiers that won’t be harsh for your system to handle. At the same time, you want block absorption and storage of any new toxins. To accomplish this, choose supplements from this pesticide detox dream team:

•  Glycine (an amino acid) competes with glyphosate and helps prevent it from being stored in organs and tissues. Glycine also increases levels of glutathione, the “master antioxidant” that boosts your body’s detox process. Collagen is rich in glycine.
• Iodine blocks toxins like fluoride and chloride from being absorbed into tissues, especially the thyroid. Kelp is the best source of bioavailable iodine, with the added benefit of binding to toxins for safe removal from the body.
  • Sodium alginate (a seaweed extract) binds with toxins like glyphosate in the GI tract so they can be safely eliminated.
• Citrus pectin binds with a variety of environmental toxins and heavy metals to reduce the body’s toxic burden.

Step 2: Repair

Once gluten and glyphosate are out of the picture, your body can begin to focus on repair. This involves reducing inflammation and repairing the damage done to the intestines. Gut-healing supplements include:

• Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, reduces systemic inflammation. Fish oil also helps repair the injured gut barrier.
• Citrus pectin also helps heal and restore gut barrier integrity.
• Glycine possesses strong anti-inflammatory actions that help calm and soothe the intestinal lining.

Step 3: Restore and Revitalize

After the intestines have been repaired, you can turn your focus toward restoring a well-balanced gut microbiome. When your gut microbiome contains a rich diversity of beneficial bacteria, it helps calm autoimmune and allergic responses to gluten. By replenishing and nourishing probiotic bacteria, you’ll be supporting healthy detox and immune system function.

Best of all, a healthy gut microbiome can help eliminate even the most troubling GI symptoms brought on by gluten and glyphosate. Restore and revitalize a healthy gut with:

• Probiotics: Replenish beneficial bacteria and help crowd out harmful bacteria.
  Probiotics also produce many healing compounds, including short chain fatty acids (SCFA) that protect and repair the gut barrier.
• Prebiotics: A type of dietary fiber that selectively nourishes probiotic bacteria. Prebiotics also supply the raw materials for SCFA production.
• Citrus pectin: Encourages beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome to flourish.
• Digestive enzymes: Help break down foods into easy-to-absorb nutrients. Supplementing with small quantities of digestive enzymes helps stimulate your own natural enzyme production. This can be especially helpful during the recovery process as celiac disease can interfere with nutrient absorption.

Emerging data suggests that modern wheat strains may be more difficult on digestion for many people. But as we also learn more about the impacts of pesticides and other influences on microbiome health, it’s becoming increasingly clear that supporting GI integrity and microbiome balance from multiple angles, holds the key to long-term health on every level.

The post Is It Wheat the Problem? Or Is It Pesticides? A Surprising Factor in Celiac Disease appeared first on Dr. Axe.

You’ve probably used the phrases: “I have butterflies in my stomach,” “I have a gut feeling about this,” or “there’s a pit in my stomach.” Have you ever wondered why so many of these sayings involve our brains and tummies? The answer is the gut-brain connection.

As it turns out, your nervous stomach isn’t such a coincidence. In fact, the more we learn about the human gut, or our gut microbiome, the more it’s clear that it really is our “second brain.”

You’re probably already aware that leaky gut syndrome is linked to serious conditions and diseases. Turns out, science is discovering that the connection between our guts and our emotions is just as strong.

What Is the Gut-Brain Connection?

The microbes in the gut play a significant role in human body function. The gut microbiome is responsible for everyday functions, including digestion and the nutrient absorption.

The gut and brain work in a “bi-directional manner,” which means that gut health can impact stress, anxiety, depression and cognition.

Scientific studies show that the gut is home to the enteric nervous system (ENS). Separate from the central nervous system, the ENS is made up of two thin layers with more than 100 million nerve cells in them — more than the spinal cord.

These cells line the gastrointestinal tract, controlling blood flow and secretions to help the gastrointestinal tract digest food. They also help us “feel” what’s happening inside the gut, since this second brain is behind the mechanics of food digestion.

While the second brain doesn’t get involved in thought processes like political debates or theological reflection, studies suggest that it does control behavior on its own. Researchers believe this came about to make digestion more efficient in the body. Instead of having to “direct” digestion through the spinal cord and into the brain and back, we developed an on-site brain that could handle things closer to the source.

Because this second brain is so complex, scientists aren’t convinced that it was designed as just a way to aid in digestion. So while it isn’t capable of thoughts, it does “talk” to the brain in major ways.

Impact on Depression

The gut microbiome appears to play a role in depression. The microflora has proved to benefit mental health by enhancing the microbiome content in our GI systems.

Researchers have learned that healthy gut microflora transmits brain signals through pathways that are involved in brain neuron formation and behavioral control. They also proved that inflammation affects the brain and how someone thinks, which explains why more than 20 percent of inflammatory bowel disease patients exhibit depressed behaviors.

One study illustrated how the gut and brain are connected through studying the effects of probiotics on patients with irritable bowel syndrome and depression. Researchers found that twice as many patients saw improvements from depression when they took a probiotic as compared to the other patients who took a placebo.

Again, with an improvement of the gut came an improvement of mental well-being. Patients in this study took the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 daily. 

Studies show that patients with inflammatory diseases are prone to depression. The theory is that a dysregulation of the pathways involved in the gut-brain axis is responsible for this phenomenon. Research indicates that inflammation leads to depression, and depression worsens cytokine responses, so it’s really just a vicious cycle.

Impact on Anxiety

Research shows that stress is intimately tied to our guts — thereby proving the gut-brain connection. We know that gut health influences anxiety and the body’s response to stress as part of the brain-gut connection.

Our bodies respond to stress with a “fight or flight system,” related to our cortisol levels and which we know is ruled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. When something scary or worrying happens, like someone unexpectedly jumps in front of you, you have a physical reaction: Your palms might get sweaty, and you might feel your heartbeat quicken.

Typically, if you’re in a stressful situation that is then diffused, your body goes back to normal. However, if you’re constantly stressed, your body is stuck in that fight or flight phase over an extended period of time.

The critical part is that our bodies are unable to distinguish between physical and mental stress. Thus your body responds the same way if a bear shows up in your home as it does when you realize you hate your job — it tries to combat the stress.

This constant state of stress causes chronic inflammation. The body reacts to the stress as a type of infection and tries to overcome it.

Because inflammation is at the root of many diseases, this exposure to prolonged stress can have serious consequences for your health, ranging from high blood pressure to autoimmune disorders. The types of bacteria found in the gut — “good bacteria” — play a role in how our immune responses are regulated.

Related: Mythbusters: Mood Plays Little Role in Your Health

Natural Ways to Improve Your Gut-Brain Connection

While there’s still much to uncover about the mystery of the gut and all it affects, we are sure of a few things you should do to improve your gut-brain connection.

1. Avoid Processed Foods

For starters, a whole foods-based diet leads to a gut with a much different makeup than one that’s been fed mainly refined and processed foods. Even worse, ultra-processed foods — like white bread, chips and snack cakes — make up nearly 60 percent of the average American’s diet.

The added sugar found in these foods, often disguised as different types of artificial sweeteners, are responsible for a variety of health conditions, from obesity to type 2 diabetes to migraines.

2. Eat Probiotics

Eating probiotic-rich foods, like kefir and sauerkraut, can also cause your gut and mood to thrive. Probiotics are good bacteria that primarily line your gut and are responsible for nutrient absorption and supporting your immune system.

3. Swear Off Gluten

For many people, limiting gluten will also have positive effect on their gut microbiomes. The traditional methods of soaking, sprouting and souring grains in order to make them digestible and nutritious have been abandoned for a fast and convenient method of mass producing food.

4. Eat Healthy Fats

Healthy fats are essential for brain development. Olive oil, for instance, includes a high amount of antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. It also helps improve memory and cognitive function, and works as an anti-inflammatory.

Avocado benefits range from protecting your heart to helping with digestion, but it’s also a great pick for improving your mood.

5. Consume Mushrooms

The shiitake mushroom contains plenty of vitamin B6. Because vitamin B6 impacts the production of serotonin and neurotransmitters, healthy B6 levels are associated with a positive mood and reducing stress naturally.

It’s also been shown to effectively treat mood disorders like depression in animal research.

6. Eat Nuts

Have a small handful of nuts, like almonds, cashews, walnuts and Brazil nuts. Why? Research shows they’re full of serotonin, a feel-good chemical that’s in short supply when you’re depressed.

7. Have Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds benefits stem from tyrosine, an amino acid that boosts the brain’s dopamine levels. It kicks the feel-good hormone into high gear while balancing out the others.

We don’t have all the answers on the gut-mood link just yet, but one thing is certain: Our bodies and minds are much more connected than you believe. Taking care of one part will reap benefits for the rest of you.

Final Thoughts

• The microbes in the gut play a significant role in human body function. They are responsible for everyday functions, including digestion and the nutrient absorption, and gut health has a significant impact on mental health. This is known as the gut-brain connection.
• Research shows that there’s a connection between gut microbiota and mental health disorders like depression and chronic anxiety or stress.
• The key is to improve gut health, which will reduce systemic inflammation and improve mental health thanks to the gut-brain connection.

The post The Gut-Brain Connection: How It Works + How to Support It appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Heartburn, a form of uncomfortable indigestion, affects millions of people every day, yet is largely preventable and treatable.

Roughly 20 percent of adult Americans put up with painful heartburn or acid reflux symptoms on a recurring basis — and more than 60 million yearly.

In April 2o20, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called for retailers in the U.S. to pull the popular over-the-counter heartburn medication called Zantac from store shelves. Although Zantac has been used by millions of people for years in order to reduce acid reflux and heartburn symptoms, according to available research reviewed by the FDA, the drug may contain a probable human carcinogen.

Here’s the good news: Not only are there other medications that can be safely be used in Zantac’s place, but you can also benefit from simple natural heartburn remedies that often work quickly to correct the underlying causes of this digestive problem.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is defined as “a form of indigestion felt as a burning sensation in the chest, caused by acid regurgitation into the esophagus.”

This condition is related to acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These digestive issues are sometimes referred to simply as “indigestion.”

Heartburn and more chronic forms of GERD are two of the most common health conditions affecting Americans despite the availability of simple lifestyle or even medical intervention options.

What causes acid reflux and heartburn? Diet and lifestyle habits, mostly.

They commonly produce a variety of temporary, yet uncomfortable and often painful, symptoms. The most common times to experience heartburn or acid reflux symptoms occur at night after eating a large meal, during movement like bending or lifting, or when lying down flat on your back.

Symptoms

The most common and noticeable heartburn symptoms include:

• burning sensations and pain in the chest
• general discomfort in the upper abdomen or below the breast bone
• stomachaches shortly after eating, feeling like stomach acid is “churning”
• pain that seems to move up from the stomach first and can reach as far up as the throat
• regurgitation or having the sensation of acid backing up into your throat or mouth
• sour and bitter tastes in your mouth
• feeling overly full
• belching, burping and feeling nauseous (symptoms of dyspepsia)

Wondering if heartburn is dangerous or simply inconvenient to deal with? Occasional heartburn here and there — especially after eating common “trigger” foods that are acid-forming —  isn’t thought to be dangerous, but according to studies, experiencing these symptoms on an ongoing basis could raise a red flag for a chronic condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD can sometimes lead to serious problems, so it’s important to evaluate what’s causing the symptoms. This usually means making some adjustments to your lifestyle using acid reflux remedies that target the underlying digestive and stress issues.

Related: What Are Meat Sweats? Plus How to Prevent Them

Causes

Although the name implies it would involve the heart, heartburn is primarily caused by digestive problems like stomach acid regurgitation into the esophagus. It doesn’t actually have much to do with one’s cardiovascular system.

It was named “heartburn” because some of the symptoms — like pain and throbbing near the breast bone and heart — are similar to those that would occur when someone is having a heart attack.  In fact, some people actually suffering a heart attack mistakenly think that they’re dealing with heartburn and don’t rush to the emergency room!

Why does indigestion like heartburn happen?

The most common underlying causes of the LES not working properly to hold in stomach acid include:

1. Certain foods in the diet
2. Eating too much at one time
3. The “brain-body connection” and the effects of high stress levels
4. Taking certain medications

Research shows that other risk factors for heartburn include: older age, excessive body mass index (BMI), smoking, anxiety/depression, and less physical activity at work.

Although it commonly goes away after delivery, more than half of all pregnant women also experience some sort of heartburn at one point or another, caused by increased pressure on the digestive organs and hormonal changes.

Remedies

Many of the causes of heartburn can be fixed by trying heartburn remedies like changing your diet, avoiding overeating, and better controlling stressors. Here are several natural remedies to try before relying on medications:

1. Eat Smaller Portions, Spaced Throughout the Day

Overeating puts a high amount of pressure on the stomach. When the body senses that you’ve eaten a large amount at once, stomach acid production is turned up in order to facilitate digestion. After eating a heavy meal, especially one that’s high in fat or filled with acid-forming foods, according to studies, some of the contents of the stomach can literally leak out and flow back into your esophagus.

Many people eat their biggest, heaviest meal at night, which is why heartburn is most common before bedtime. Nighttime overeating may also lead to weight gain that is linked to higher rates of heartburn. For example, a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that obesity likely causes heartburn due to many factors, including an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, a greater association of hiatal hernia and hormonal factors.

To avoid weight gain and overeating at dinner or afterward, try spacing out your food intake throughout the day more. If you’re the type of person that usually eats two to three bigger meals a day, try shifting to a schedule of eating four to six smaller meals and front-loading your calorie intake toward the earlier part of the day.

Studies generally suggest that it’s best to avoid eating at least three hours before going to sleep.

2. Limit Foods that Increase Stomach Acid

Adjusting your diet to remove or reduce certain foods that can trigger the LES to allow for acid to sneak out from the stomach can greatly help reduce reflux.

Foods that may worsen heartburn symptoms include:

• fried foods or meals high in low-quality and refined oils — these are foods you should stop eating immediately if you want avoid heartburn completely
• packaged foods with artificial sweeteners, ingredients, preservatives and flavors
• tomatoes
• citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit)
• garlic
• onions
• chocolate
• coffee
• caffeinated products
• peppermint
• alcohol

Dealing with heartburn doesn’t necessarily mean you have to avoid these foods altogether, but take note of what you’re eating prior to experiencing any painful symptoms. Everyone reacts differently to acidic foods, and it might take some trial and error in order to establish which are the worst offenders for you personally.

You might want to keep an ongoing record so you can easily connect the dots between certain foods and recurring heartburn symptoms.

3. Eat Healing Foods

Focus on eating a healing foods diet filled with whole foods that don’t aggravate your digestive system. The GAPS diet is a great example of a protocol that focuses on whole foods that treat digestive issues like IBS, leaky gut, acid reflux and many other conditions.

Healing foods on the GAPS diet include:

• fresh organic vegetables (especially those containing prebiotic fibers, including artichokes, asparagus, cucumber, pumpkin, squash and fennel)
• healthy fats, including coconut oil, avocado and ghee (easy to digest and nourishing to the digestive tract)
• quality animal proteins like free-range chicken and grass-fed beef
• wild-caught tuna, sardines and salmon
• bone broth (contains enzymes and nutrients like collagen, glutamine, proline and glycine to help rebuild the gut lining)
• aloe vera, raw honey, parsley, ginger and fennel (nourish the digestive tract)
• unpasteurized cultured dairy products like kefir and yogurt, or raw unpasteurized cheeses (help balance healthy bacteria in the stomach)
• fermented vegetables, including kimchi and sauerkraut, or fermented drinks like kombucha (contain beneficial probiotics)
• apple cider vinegar (fermented and helps balances stomach acid)
• almonds
• teas including chamomile, papaya, fennel and ginger tea

4. Control Your Stress

Stress is more than just something you feel in your head — it’s actually a powerful hormonal trigger that can affect nearly every bodily system, from immunity to digestion. One 2013 study published in the Journal of Digestive Diseases and Sciences found that symptoms of reflux esophagitis disorders are significantly associated with psychosocial stress levels, and the severity of reflux esophagitis correlates with the degree of stress.

High levels of uncontrolled stress and even sleep deprivation can increase acid production in the stomach, which helps cause heartburn, so many people with frequent indigestion or GERD find that stress triggers their symptoms.

Other effects of stress can include increased level and frequency of esophageal acid exposure, inhibition of gastric emptying of acid, or stress-induced hypersensitivity.

In one study of adults experiencing frequent heartburn, the presence of  severe and persistent life stressors or ongoing exhaustion during a six-month period significantly predicted increased heartburn symptoms during the following four months.

To help curb your heartburn symptoms or other signs of digestive distress, look to the root cause of the problem. How are you handling stress from work or relationships? How much sleep are you getting? Are you doing your best to avoid “burnout” and overtaxing your adrenal glands that can result in fatigue?

Consider trying stress-relieving techniques like deep breathing, massage or acupuncture, healing prayer or meditation, journaling, and using relaxing essential oils.

5. Take Supplements to Help Support Digestion

Eating a healthy diet should be your top priority, but there are some supplements that can help heal the digestive tract and lower symptoms in the meantime while you transition to this lifestyle.

• Digestive enzymes — These can help you fully digest foods, better absorb nutrients and prevent acid buildup. Try taking one or two capsules of a high-quality digestive enzyme at the start of each meal until symptoms dissipate.
• HCL with pepsin — Useful for keeping uncomfortable symptoms at bay. Try taking one 650-milligram pill prior to each meal.
• Probiotics — In addition to eating probiotic foods, you can try taking 25 billion–50 billion units of high-quality probiotics daily to crowd out bad bacteria in the gut.
• Magnesium — Many people are low in this crucial nutrient, experiencing a magnesium deficiency without even realizing it. Magnesium relaxes muscles, can help you sleep better, helps deal with stress, eases digestion and can prevent improper sphincter functioning. Take 400 milligrams of a high-quality magnesium supplement once or twice per day.
• L-Glutamine — L-glutamine has gained attention for being one of the best ways to support healing from digestion disorders like leaky gut, IBS or ulcerative colitis. I recommend taking five grams of glutamine powder twice per day with meals.

6. Be Careful About the Medications You Take

It’s possible that heartburn symptoms can worsen from taking medications, such as the birth control pill or certain drugs used to treat high blood pressure. Another thing to avoid is smoking cigarettes, since smoking relaxes the LES and stimulates stomach acid.

Additionally, if you are going to use medications to control heartburn symptoms, be careful about which type you choose. In 2020, research revealed that over-the-counter drugs containing ranitidine, which includes the brand name drug Zantac, can contain a contaminant that poses a risk to the public’s health. The contaminant, called N-nitrosodimethylamine or NDMA that’s found in ranitidine, is thought to increase over time and when stored at higher-than-normal temperatures.

Although it hasn’t been found in a high percentage of Zantac samples that the FDA has tested, consumers are still advised to stop taking any ranitidine tablets or liquid medications and to stop buying these drugs. NDMA has not been found in some other heartburn drugs, including famotidine or Pepcid, esomeprazole or Nexium, or omeprazole or Prilosec — so if you feel that medicating is necessary, choose these drugs instead.

Final Thoughts

• Heartburn is a form of indigestion felt as a burning sensation in the chest, caused by acid regurgitation into the esophagus. This condition is related to acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• This condition occurs when stomach acid is not held inside the stomach properly. Underlying causes can include: certain foods in your diet, eating too much at one time, high stress levels, taking certain medications.
• Natural heartburn remedies include: eating smaller portions throughout the day; controlling stress: eating an anti-inflammatory diet; using supplements to support digestion; and avoiding certain problematic medications.
• The popular over-the-counter drug called Zantac (which contains ranitidine) is now believed to possibly contain a contaminant that poses a risk to the public’s health, so it should no longer be used.

The post Can’t Use Zantac? Try These 5 Heartburn Remedies appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Your gut health is an essential part of your immune health, and if there’s anyone who knows this firsthand, it’s Jordan Rubin. 

Before becoming a Founding CEO of Garden of Life and co-founder of Ancient Nutrition, New York Times best-selling author, international motivational speaker and television personality, Jordan went through his own lengthy healing journey. In order to overcome what he was told was an incurable and lifelong illness, Jordan visited over 70 health care providers in seven different countries. 

Experimenting with hundreds of different medications, herbal supplements and alternative therapies unfortunately didn’t lead to his recovery — but taking an unexpected, and at the time mostly unknown, type of probiotic eventually did. 

Now that Jordan is well, he has since devoted his life to helping and educating others who are looking for powerful ways to improve their own health. The personal account he’s shared about his battle and triumph over Crohn’s disease has resonated with millions around the world.

In his opinion, he mostly has probiotics that contain soil-based organisms (or SBOs), coupled with dietary changes, to thank for his dramatic return to health.

Related Podcast: Jordan Rubin: Overcoming Chronic Illness with Soil-Based Organism Probiotics

Jordan Rubin’s Health Journey

In 1993, while thriving as a freshman at Florida State University, seemingly out of nowhere Jordan became sick and gradually developed what would be a slew of debilitating symptoms and illnesses.

Within a matter of months, he went from being in top physical shape and having an active social and academic life to frequently feeling wiped out all day. It quickly became his “new normal,” due to serious gastrointestinal issues that continued to worsen.

Jordan’s illness first manifested as stomach cramps that had him running to the bathroom several times a day with diarrhea. Towards the beginning of his illness, at one point he alarmingly lost 20 pounds in one week and became noticeably much weaker. His upset stomach was constant, leaving him dehydrated, lacking an appetite and with several concerning nutrient deficiencies.

Jordan Rubin, severely underweight after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.

Despite being prescribed various antibiotics from a doctor he visited, his condition only worsened, as he began experiencing even more severe gastrointestinal problems, weight loss, fatigue, fevers and poor sleep. 

While at first in denial about how serious his condition has become, he eventually had no choice but to ask for help. After running a 105 degree fever and admitting to his parents how sick he had become, he was checked into the hospital where he stayed for two weeks, hooked up to a hospital bed with an IV pole attached to each arm so that he could receive intravenous antibiotics and nutrients. 

The doctors Jordan worked with prescribed antibiotics and antiparasitic drugs that had to be given intravenously for maximum effect, but his body was so overridden by infection that it had become terribly inflamed. As a result, heavy-duty steroid medications that are notorious for causing side effects were also needed. 

After loads of tests were done, Jordan was finally diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a condition involving the small bowel and proximal colon that causes the intestinal wall to thicken and the bowel channel to narrow, blocking the intestinal tract. The result was abnormal membrane function, including nutrient malabsorption. 

Doctors informed Jordan that not only did he have one of the worst cases of Crohn’s that they had ever seen, but that he had a variation of the disease that affects only about 1 percent of people with Crohn’s: duodenitis, an inflammation of the duodenum, which is at the beginning of the small intestine. In addition, there was widespread inflammation throughout his large and small intestine that was hard to control.

Despite that there is no cure for Crohn’s and that many patients with Crohn’s disease experience frequent and progressive symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea and extreme weight loss, he was determined to get better. 

His father, a naturopathic doctor, began a trip around the world with Jordan that took them to 70 health practitioners from seven different countries — including medical doctors, chiropractors, immunologists, acupuncturists, homeopaths, herbalists, nutritionists and dieticians.

Jordan’s health journey concluded with a visit to a California nutritionist who told him he was not healthy because he was not following God’s health plan.

He decided to change his diet to one that included only whole foods consumed in Biblical times: raw, organically grown whole grains, fruits and vegetables, as well as fermented dairy, grass-fed beef and poultry. He also added a daily regimen of probiotics teeming with beneficial bacteria in soil-based organisms. 

How Probiotics Changed the Game

Jordan’s health finally started to improve thanks to his new diet and probiotic plan. He even gained an astounding 29 pounds in 40 days. He was mostly free of the digestive problems that had plagued him for years, and he was ready to reclaim his life and spread the word to others about what finally worked for him.

It was clear to Jordan and his family that dysfunction of his gut (gastrointestinal tract) was the real issue, even though he was experiencing symptoms that affected his whole body. Crohn’s disease, a supposedly incurable chronic illness, wreaks havoc on the immune system. 

The gastrointestinal tract is critical to the body’s immune function because it’s where most of the body’s antibody producing cells reside. Our gut produces about 75 percent of our body’s total immune system cells. 

Bacterial imbalance in the gut (called dysbiosis) contributed to the breakdown of Jordan’s gut-lining-immune-barrier and fueled the growth of yeast, fungi, parasites and disease-causing bacteria in his body. This promoted the absorption of internally produced toxins, impaired the absorption of essential nutrients and led to widespread inflammation.

Jordan believes that there were several contributing factors to the decline in his health that he experienced during his 20s: 

• He ate a mostly high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet at the time, which promoted the growth of “bad bacteria” in his gut that survive on sugary, high-carbohydrate and refined foods that are prevalent in the modern diet.
• Following his use of numerous antibiotics, it was the bad bacteria that got the head start in repopulating the barren property within his gut. He was in desperate need of “friendly” bacteria, since these were decimated by the large doses of antibiotics that he had taken, yet no supplements he had tried were providing the right type.

Today, the majority of people are familiar with probiotic supplements. However, in the 1990s, it was basically a different era as far as natural remedies and supplements are concerned. Much less was known about the effects of different types of probiotics, and many so-called “experts” even flat out recommended against using soil-based organisms at the time due to a lack of knowledge and formal research.

Jordan used at least 30 different probiotics during his journey back to health. And all 30 didn’t work. All types that he tried were probiotics derived from lactic acid bacteria, except for one (called Nissle 1917 E. Coli strain, which he took while staying in Germany. Yes, he was willing to try ingesting E.coli if it could potentially help!).

While working with one world-renowned probiotic expert and specialist, he was even consuming 1–3 whole bottles per day of expensive probiotic capsules, but still didn’t see results.

Soil-Based Probiotics

It wasn’t until he came across one particular type of probiotic — which contained soil-based organisms (or SBOs) — that his condition began to go into remission.

While working with the previously mentioned nutritionist in California, Jordan’s father gave him a dark-colored powder that contained organisms and minerals to try. Jordan remarked to his father that his new probiotics looked a whole lot like dirt, and his father actually agreed and replied that that’s because they “contain healthy organisms from the soil.” 

Despite nearly feeling hopeless after failing to find relief from so many different probiotics, he followed his father’s advice and understood that this type could be different. He was willing to stick with this new probiotic to see where it took him.

What made these particular probiotics different? They contained soil-based organisms, along with prebiotics and postbiotics.

Prebiotics essentially feed the healthy microbes and organisms that we’re in need of, while postbiotics (also called metabolites) are compounds that beneficial microbes create to ensure their own survival. Together, these organisms “condition” our immune systems so that they intuitively know how to protect us.

Decades after Jordan’s journey began, there’s now far more research available demonstrating that probiotics containing soil-based organisms (SBOs) can serve as an internal shield and immune booster. These supplements contain nutrients missing from today’s pesticide-sterilized, barren soils.

These were living organisms that our ancestors consumed on a regular basis — considering their food, clothes and bodies were “dirty” by today’s standards —  but they’ve mostly been wiped out of the diet due to pesticide treatment of America’s farmlands, pasteurization of foods and our current obsession with sanitization.

In addition to consuming probiotics with soil-based organisms, Jordan continued to heal and thrive by including fermented and nutrient-dense foods in his daily diet — such as raw goat’s milk in the form of fermented kefir; organically grown free-range or grass-fed meats; natural sprouted or sourdough breads made from whole grains that were yeast-free; organic fruits and vegetables like raw sauerkraut, carrots and other vegetable juices.

These are “living” foods that provide beneficial enzymes and microorganisms that are essential for gut and immune health.

Within one month of adding the “black powder” to his biblical diet, Jordan experienced newfound energy, went to the bathroom less frequently and continued to persevere, before returning home to Florida at his normal weight, ready to start life again. He is convinced that the combination of the biblical diet and the SBOs restored his health.

Jordan Rubin, after having recovered his health.

Once he was finally well, Jordan knew that he had to find a way to distribute the probiotics containing soil-based organisms that had helped him to get well. He started a whole-food nutrition company to help ill and hurting people like himself who were looking for answers. This is one reason he believes that he went through his whole ordeal for a reason. 

Jordan now says that if he had to boil his message down to one sentence, it would be this: “No matter what health challenges plague you today, there is hope for an answer.” 

His sickness kicked off a lifelong journey of him studying and coaching others about the importance of eating a whole foods diet (“Maker’s Diet“) and returning to a way of life that’s in tune with nature. 

If his message about exposing oneself to essential missing microorganisms can help even one person, he considers this a blessing.

The post Jordan Rubin: I Recovered My Health Because of Soil-Based Organism Probiotics appeared first on Dr. Axe.

More than 100 million cases of tapeworm infections occur globally every year. (1) Tapeworm infections affect the intestines of humans and occur when people eat raw or undercooked, contaminated animal foods. They can even affect other organs in rare instances, including the brain.

Surprisingly, tapeworms don’t always cause any noticeable symptoms at all. However when they do, tapeworm symptoms — and those caused by other similar parasitic infections — can sometimes become very serious, even life-threatening. When present, tapeworm symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, cramps, trouble sleeping and more.

The actual infections that tapeworms cause mostly affect the intestinal wall, but can become more complicated when tapeworm larvae/eggs move through the bloodstream and attach to skeletal muscle or tissues, where they’re able to form cysts. One rare example of a complicated tapeworm infection was discovered in a man who complained of splitting headaches and migraine symptoms like nausea and vomiting for years; it turned out that he was suffering from a condition called neurocysticercosis, which causes neurological symptoms when tapeworm larval cysts develop in the brain.

What can you do to help overcome a tapeworm infection and relieve tapeworm symptoms? Natural treatments include performing a parasitic cleanse, consuming supplements to help improve detoxification, and enemas or colonics.

What Is a Tapeworm?

Tapeworms are flat, sometimes very long worms that are able to survive inside the digestive system of both humans and animals.

A parasite is an organism that lives on or in a host and gets its food from or at the expense of its host. A parasite’s eggs can even live inside raw meat, including beef, pork and fish.

Cysts that lead to tapeworms are what humans consume when they eat contaminated meat (especially pork) or fish. Eggs stored inside the cysts eventually hatch, and the newly born worms then continue the cycle by latching on to the host’s intestinal wall as an energy supply.

Six different species of tapeworms have now been identified that cause millions of human infections around the world every year — and the tapeworm symptoms that accompany them. (2)

Some of the most common types of tapeworm infections are caused by parasites, including beef tapeworms, pork tapeworms, fish tapeworms, dwarf tapeworms (Hymenolepis nana) and the Echinococcus species of tapeworms. Taenia saginata is the species found in beef, Taenia solium from pork and Diphyllobothrium latum from fish. Pork and fish tapeworms can sometimes grow up to 15—30 feet in length.

And because the worms can lay eggs inside of a human’s or animal’s digestive tract that make their way into stool, the eggs can sometimes spread to other people (refereed to as “intermediate hosts”) through contact with feces or from environmental runoff.

Tapeworm Symptoms

It’s believed that the majority of people who become infected with tapeworms don’t ever know it or develop noticeable tapeworm symptoms or complications. The tapeworm is eventually killed off inside the intestines and excreted through a bowel movement. However, some people are not so lucky and manage to stay infected with a tapeworm for months or even years, left to deal with uncomfortable tapeworm symptoms.

The most common tapeworm symptoms and signs include: (3)

• An upset stomach or nausea
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Muscle weakness and fatigue
• Cramps and abdominal pains
• Changes in appetite, including feeling very hungry despite eating or loss of appetite
• Weight loss (even despite eating)
• Signs of nutrient deficiencies, including cognitive problems like poor concentration and fatigue
• Trouble sleeping
• Changes in stool and sometimes segments of the worm appearing in a bowel movement. Some people can even feel a small piece of the tapeworm exit the anus or notice a moving, ribbon-like worm inside the toilet bowel.
• Animals, including pets like dogs or cats, can also become infected with tapeworms. Tapeworm symptoms in dogs or cats can include vomiting, loss of appetite, low energy or diarrhea.

Natural Treatments for Tapeworm Symptoms

1. Thoroughly Cook Meat and Fish

Because eating raw or undercooked meat and fish is the most common cause of tapeworm infections, the best way to protect yourself is to cook these foods thoroughly before consuming them. Most experts recommend cooking animal foods to at least 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius). Cysts and eggs within meat or fish also commonly die off at this temperature or when frozen for extended periods (more than several days). Unfortunately, drying or smoking meat and fish usually is not enough to kill all eggs.

Because freshwater fish are capable of passing tapeworms to their eggs, it’s recommended that these fish never be served raw (sushi-style). Whenever consuming freshwater fish, make sure it’s cooked, ideally frozen after it’s caught or properly cured/brined. The very best way to prevent tapeworm infections from contaminated animal foods is also having a trained health code adviser check the meat or fish before it goes to market, since cysts within meat/fish are often visible to the naked eye.

2. Parasitic Cleanse

A parasitic cleanse diet can help you overcome intestinal infection symptoms and prevent complications. Eating a healthy diet can also lower the odds of becoming infected with a parasite because it helps boost immunity and excludes certain risky foods (such as pork).

I recommend following the steps below for a parasite cleanse for about a week, at the same time consuming the anti-parasitic supplements listed below. After one week, keep consuming a healthy diet, but take a week off from the cleanse and supplements to help your body adjust. Then complete two more weeks of the cleanse plus supplements.

Here are the steps to take in order to complete a parasite cleanse:

• Avoid pork products. Pork can carry parasites and worms, so if you eat pork consistently, there’s a high chance that you might ingest a parasite. I recommend you cut out all pork products from your diet for good.
• Increase your intake of organic vegetables. Focus on consuming big salads, fresh veggie juices, soups or smoothies made with greens. Garlic, onions and fresh herbs are especially helpful. These have immune-boosting and anti-parasitic effects. Focus on including herbs like oregano and ginger in your recipes.
• Remove added sugar. All sugar and all grains can contribute to gut imbalance and worsen inflammation. During a parasitic cleanse I recommend you mimic a Paleo-type diet to remove these foods.
• Avoid refined carbohydrates and grains. Many grains, especially those containing wheat/gluten, can break down into sugar quickly and cause intestinal inflammation.
• Reduce or eliminate fruit. Stick to about one serving or less daily. However, papaya and papaya juice are an exception, as papaya has natural anti-parasitic properties.
• Consume coconut oil, meat and milk. This can include making coconut smoothies with coconut milk or using pure coconut oil. Coconut oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
• Consume chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds and bone broth in order to get fiber and protein. Pumpkin seeds (along with pumpkin seed butter or pumpkin oil) are especially helpful due to certain nutrients and anti-parasitic compounds they contain.
• Only consume organic meat that has been grass-fed or pasture-raised. Avoid processed meat products or conventionally/farm-raised meat.
• Only consume wild-caught fish. I also recommend avoiding shellfish, which can contain high levels of heavy metals.
• Consume probiotic foods. These include kefir, sauerkraut and yogurt, which help improve the health of the gut.
• Avoid processed foods and alcohol. These lower immune system functioning and make detoxification harder.

3. Anti-Parasitic Supplements

Certain supplements can help kill parasites, as well as rid of the body of other toxins, including:

• Paracomplete: A parasite cleanse supplement that includes thyme leaf, berberine sulfate, oregano, grapefruit seed extract and uva ursi leaf. These herbs have natural anti-parasitic, antifungal and antibacterial properties that have been used in traditional medicine systems for many years.
• Grapefruit seed extract (read directions for dosage recommendations, which vary depending on strength)
• Black walnut (250 milligrams three daily): An herb used historically for the treatment of parasites
• Garlic: Use both raw garlic in recipes and garlic essential oil
• Wormwood (200 milligrams three daily)
• Oregano oil (500 milligrams four times daily): Has antibacterial and anti-parasitic effects. You can also use oregano oil essential oil to improve detoxification.
• Olive leaf: If you have access to an olive tree, then you can use the leaves to make tea. Bake them at about 150 degrees until they’re dry, steep in hot water for 10 minutes, and drink several cups daily with raw honey or lemon.
• Clove oil (500 milligrams four times daily or four cups of tea made using clove essential oil)

4. Improve Detoxification Through Colonics

Performing two to three colon cleanses per week over the course of several weeks can help increase effectiveness of a parasite cleanse. Consider using a coffee enema or performing a salt water flush.

Tapeworm Risk Factors and Causes

The most common reason that humans become infected with tapeworms is eating undercooked meat from an infected animal or contaminated freshwater fish. (4) Although exposure to a tapeworm needs to occur in order for an infection to take place, certain risk factors might contribute to worsened tapeworm symptoms. These risk factors include:

• Drinking contaminated water. If you’ve ever been to another country, like China, India, Africa or Mexico, and drank the water, then felt sick afterward, there’s a chance you picked up a parasite.
• Imbalanced gut flora
• Leaky gut syndrome
• Having a weakened immune system

Here’s an overview of how a tapeworm parasitic infection develops:

• Tapeworms lay eggs that turn into tiny larva, and these larva can live inside the meat of animals, which humans then consume for food. After eating infected meat, larva are sometimes able to make their way through the person’s digestive tract into the intestines, where they survive off of other food becoming consumed.
• Other than eating infected meat, it’s less common but still possible to contract certain types of tapeworms from coming into contact with small amounts of another infected person’s stool. It’s believed that this happens with pork tapeworms but not with other worms found in fish or beef. As described above, egg-bearing secretions from pork tapeworms (called proglottids) are passed inside stool. For example, when food is prepared by an infected person and that person doesn’t properly wash his or her hands after going to the bathroom, tiny tapeworm eggs can make their way onto the food and contaminate it. The eggs can then hatch inside the next person’s intestines and survive.
• When untreated, human waste or animal waste carrying tapeworm eggs can be released into the environment and then ingested by another host.
• Animals (especially horses, cattle and pigs) commonly get tapeworms after grazing in pastures where contaminated runoff has entered or from drinking contaminated water.
• Fish can also become infected with tapeworms by eating small crustaceans that carry tapeworm eggs/cysts.

Tapeworm Infection Statistics and Facts

• Every year hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. become infected with parasites, although they usually have no idea. (5)
• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, traveling to parts of Latin America, Eastern Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, India and Asia can expose Americans to tapeworms and other parasitic infections that are then brought home, although they’re usually rarer in the U.S. (6)
• T. solium is the cause of 30 percent of epilepsy cases in many endemic areas where people and roaming pigs live in close proximity. More than 80 percent of the world’s 50 million people who are affected by epilepsy live in low- and lower-middle-income countries. (7)
• Taenia saginata and T. solium tapeworms are two common tapeworms found worldwide, particularly in Eastern Europe, Russia, Eastern Africa and Latin America.
• The number of new tapeworm infection cases in the U.S. each year is probably less than 1,000, but an exact number is not known due to many people never being diagnosed.
• The No. 1 place in the U.S. where tapeworms are found are those where cattle and people are concentrated, including in factory farms where meat is produced or urban areas where there’s poor sanitation.
• U.S. workers who work in feed lots are at the highest risk for tapeworm infections since they can be exposed to cattle feces. Restaurant workers who don’t wash their hands properly are also at risk.
• Around the world, underdeveloped communities with poor sanitation and countries where people eat raw or undercooked pork have the highest rates of tapeworm illness.
• In the U.S., tapeworm infections are highest among Latin American immigrants.
• Tapeworms affect the digestive system more than any other part of the body, although they can also cause fatigue, muscle aches and cognitive changes.
• Some tapeworms can can grow up to 25 meters long, or 82 feet, depending on the species. (8)

Conventional Treatment for Tapeworm Symptoms

If the tapeworm symptoms described above sound familiar to you, visit your doctor for a stool sample test and blood test. Stool samples can help identify the type of tapeworm that might be present, while blood tests indicate if an infection is causing complications by looking for signs of increased inflammation and high antibody levels.

Doctors also look for signs of a tapeworm infection using a stool sample by locating either segments of the worm itself or tiny eggs. If it’s suspected that larva have migrated out of the intestines and moved to another body part, your doctor might investigate whether or not cysts are present by performing a CT scan or MRI.

Once a tapeworm diagnoses has been made, doctors commonly use medications to help treat the infection. These can include:

• Antiparasitic drugs, including praziquantel
• Drugs to lower inflammation and complications, including NSAID pain relievers or corticosteroids, such as prednisone
• If other symptoms or complications have developed, such as nerve damage or digestive dysfunction, various other drugs and procedures might also be used, including diarrhea medications or vitamin B12 and iron supplements.

Tapeworm Precautions and Complications

Although it’s not very common, it’s possible for tapeworm symptoms to become very serious if a worm blocks someone’s intestines, causes deficiencies in key vitamins or minerals or causes larva to migrate out of the intestines and into other parts of the body where they form cysts.

Complications Due to Tapeworms:

• Sometimes larva, especially laid from tapeworms that come from pork meat, can move to the the liver, eyes, heart and brain, where they can cause damage. When cysts from tapeworms form in other parts of the body outside the GI tract, it’s called cysticercosis.
• Other times tapeworms might cause small cysts that can trigger complications like headaches, confusion, meninges, neurological symptoms, spinal problems and even seizures.
• Although it’s uncommon, tapeworm cysts sometimes develop in the eyes and can lead to visual problems or even blindness if untreated.
• Tapeworm infections caused from eating contaminated fish have also been associated with causing anemia, since the worms wind up consuming vitamin B12 and robbing their host. Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cell maturation and energy production, and therefore fatigue and weakness are very common.
• Always seek attention from a doctor if you suspect you might have a tapeworm to prevent complications from worsening.

Final Thoughts on Tapeworm Symptoms

• Tapeworm infections affect the intestines of humans and occur when people eat raw or undercooked, contaminated animal meat and fish.
• Tapeworms often don’t cause any noticeable symptoms at all but can cause digestive issues, fatigue, muscle aches, malabsorption, deficiencies and weight loss in some people.
• Risk factors for tapeworms include working near cattle or livestock, living in crowded areas with poor sanitation, and eating raw or undercooked meat and freshwater fish.
• Natural treatments for tapeworms include a parasitic cleanse, consuming supplements to help improve detoxification, and enemas or colonics.

The post Tapeworm Symptoms to Watch & Natural Tapeworm Treatments appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Chances are that if you haven’t experienced one yourself, you at least know someone who’s had a stomach ulcer at one point or another. Estimates show that about 500,000 new cases of peptic ulcers are reported each year in the U.S. alone, and at any given time about 5 million people are affected. In addition, one in 10 adults can expect to deal with painful ulcers at one point or another.

For many years, doctors thought that high amounts of stress alone could cause a stomach ulcer to form by increasing production of stomach acid. But then research emerged in the 1980s showing that frequent use of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like aspirin), a poor lifestyle, and especially a type of bacterial infection caused by the strain Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) are the real culprits of the majority of ulcers.

Fortunately, according to an article published in The Lancet, prevalence of H. pylori infection and peptic ulcer diseases have become substantially less prevalent than they were two decades ago.

Wondering how to treat a stomach ulcer if you’ve already developed one? Below we’ll cover much more about stomach ulcer treatments — including medications, stress management and dietary changes.

What Is A Stomach Ulcer?

Stomach ulcers (often called peptic ulcers) are painful sores that develop in the lining of your digestive system. They usually form in the stomach but can also sometimes develop in the small intestine (especially a part called the duodenum) or the esophagus.

Here’s the basics of how ulcers work:

Ulcers form when any combination of excess gastric acids, bacteria, drugs or other “toxins” cause damage and small openings to the mucosa, the tissue that lines the stomach, parts of the small intestine, and other organs. Mucosa normally protect particles from leaking out.

When someone has an ulcer, hydrochloric acid and pepsin (a type of digestive enzyme that digests proteins) build up and destroy parts of the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. The stomach usually manages acid/pepsin by creating a thick mucus coating that is supposed to act as a buffer between the stomach lining and the acids inside the stomach. The mucus coating itself usually produces certain chemicals that help repair the stomach lining, keep blood circulating and carry out cellular renewal processes. But some part of this process can become disturbed, and the lining of the GI tract can become exposed, forming small sores (ulcers).

When you eat a meal, food washes the acid in your stomach away temporarily, as it’s used to break down the nutrients in the recently consumed food. But then once your food is digested, the acid once again accumulates in the stomach and can wash against the “raw base” of the ulcer, exposing and opening it up. This causes a burning, painful sensation, sometimes one that’s very strong.

Do stomach ulcers go away? Research shows that by making changes to your diet, plus reducing stress and inflammation, can help lower your chances of suffering from a stomach ulcer in the first place. And if you’ve already got an ulcer, the chances of it healing with lifestyle changes and medications is very good.

History of Ulcer Causes

Ulcers have a unique and interesting history when it comes to their suspected “causes.” For decades, stomach ulcers were considered to be “psychosomatic,” meaning a high-stress lifestyle was to blame. At the time doctors started identifying high rates of ulcers in hard-working businessmen who smoked a lot of cigarettes and were likely sleep-deprived, and then animal studies further confirmed stress-triggered ulcers. Rats producing high amounts of stomach acid experienced a decrease in stomach ulcer symptoms when researchers fed them antacids, so a connection was then drawn between ulcers, chronic stress and an increase in stomach acid, which changed ulcer treatment approaches forever.

A bacterium called Helicobacter pylori was then discovered that seemed to be present in nearly everyone suffering from ulcers. It was also found to run in families and was connected to other digestive disorders, including stomach cancer. In patients given medications/antibiotics to kill H. pylori, ulcers were often resolved at least for a period of time.

However, today it’s more common to treat ulcers using less risky acid-reducing drugs in combination with lifestyle and dietary changes, rather than prescribing antibiotics to kill H. pylori, which can come with complications and lead to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics used to combat H. pylori can work short term to lower the bacteria, but don’t seem to keep it from returning without other interventions.

Types of Stomach Ulcers

Ulcers can develop in various parts of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Contrary to popular belief, research shows that men develop duodenal ulcers (located in the small intestines) more often than any other kind, including stomach ulcers. On the other hand, the opposite is true for women: They tend to develop more stomach ulcers and fewer ulcers of the duodenal.

Many doctors refer to stomach ulcers simply as peptic ulcers. A few other types of ulcers and names that ulcers sometimes go by include:

• Duodenal ulcers: The duodenum is the proximal portion of the small intestine that is about 10 inches long and plays an important role in the digestion of food, since it holds bile. The bile duct and pancreatic duct both empty into the duodenal, so it can be obstructed or dilated when bile production changes in response to other things going on in the body.
• Esophageal ulcers: This is a peptic ulcer that develops just above your stomach in your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth down to your digestive organs.
• Bleeding ulcers: Unresolved ulcers can start bleeding, which causes other complications. Bleeding ulcers are considered the most dangerous of all. Bleeding internally can also contribute to ulcers when there’s a broken blood vessel in your stomach or small intestine.
• Gastric ulcers: In some people with ulcers, there’s an increase in the amount of hyperacidity of the gastric juices, changing the effects that stomach acid has on the lining of the GI tract. In general, gastric ulcers are another name to describe small openings in the stomach lining that leads to stomach ulcer formation.

Stomach Ulcer Symptoms

Surprisingly, about two-thirds of people found to have peptic ulcers are asymptomatic, according to a 2019 article published in the American Journal of Medicine.

How serious is a stomach ulcer? Ulcer symptoms are not only painful, but can also lead to complications, such as infections, changes in appetite and ongoing nausea/vomiting. Ulcers can cause a range of symptoms, some that are more mild and go away quickly, but others that linger and cause a good deal of pain. Symptoms of ulcers are usually noticeable and painful, especially when they become severe, such as is the case with a high percentage of duodenal ulcers.

What does stomach ulcer pain feel like? The most common signs of a stomach ulcer include:

• abdominal pains and burning sensations, including bloating (especially after eating and between the belly and breastbone)
• bleeding when vomiting or going to the bathroom
• nausea and vomiting
• darker stools
• loss of appetite and changes in body weight
• trouble sleeping due to pain
• other digestive complaints like heartburn, acid reflux, feeling gassy
• the risk for perforation of the organ lining (a life-threatening condition requiring emergency surgery to repair small openings in the lining of the GI tract)
• dehydration, weakness and fatigue (if food intake is changed in response to pain when eating)
• diarrhea can occur as a symptom even before other stomach ulcer symptoms start

How long does it take for a stomach ulcer to heal?

Uncomplicated gastric ulcers usually take two or three months to heal. Duodenal ulcers tend to heal quicker than gastric ulcers. While most ulcers are capable of healing, an ulcer can come back if precautions aren’t taken.

Stomach ulcer complications:

Research shows that around 35 percent of patients with ulcers experience other complications besides immediate pain, including the chance for severe perforation of the lining of the GI tract and internal bleeding. Can you die from an ulcer in your stomach? While ulcers are often pretty painful and can trigger other digestive symptoms, they commonly don’t raise a big risk for death or very serious illnesses. A high percentage of ulcers (up to 90 percent of all cases) can be resolved without the need for surgery or serious medication use.

Peptic ulcers can also play a part in other diseases, particularly diseases related to the liver and kidneys. A stomach ulcer can lead to bleeding in liver cirrhosis and can be a sign of chronic kidney disease.

Stomach Ulcer Causes and Risk Factors

Ulcers can develop for several reasons. The most common stomach ulcer causes include:

• Infection in the digestive system caused by the bacteria H. pylori. H. pylori is believed to be the cause of most peptic ulcers. Some clinical studies show that H. pylori is found in more than 60 percent of older patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers. Recently it’s become widely accepted that someone’s hygiene and lifestyle can determine whether or not H. pylori causes a problem and any symptoms at all — specifically factors like how much stress and inflammation someone experiences, plus their exposure to contaminated food and water. Emerging research, including a 2018 review published in theJournal of Parkinson’s Disease, suggests there’s also a link between H. pylori and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Certain studies have found that people with PD are 1.5-3-fold more likely to be infected with H. pylori than people without PD.
• Long-term use of nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications or over-the-counter drugs (such as NSAID pain relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin, which can lead to ibuprofen overdose).
• Having a run-down immune system caused by high levels of inflammation, a poor diet, high amounts of stress and other poor lifestyle habits.
• Being a woman. In general, women are more likely to have ulcers than men, especially if they’re over the age of 70 and take over-the-counter drugs or medications regularly.
• Smoking cigarettes and excessive alcohol use; research shows smokers have double the chance of forming ulcers.
• Very rarely from the growth of a tumor (which could be either cancerous or noncancerous) that forms in the stomach, intestines or pancreas (known as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which affects only about one in every 1 million people).
• Family history, as ulcers also seem to run in families. Some research shows that people who have relatives with stomach ulcers or duodenal ulcers are two to three times more likely to experience ulcers themselves, and about 50 percent to 60 percent of people with duodenal ulcers report a family history.
• Older age. The peak age for experiencing ulcers is between 55 and 65 years old. As people get older, they tend to have weaker immune systems and higher levels of inflammation, which raises the risk for H. pylori infections that damage the stomach lining and can lead to the formation of “bleeding ulcers.” One longitudinal study published by Oxford Academic found that about 17 percent of older adults admitted to nursing homes had pressure ulcers at the time of admission, and the risk went up to 21 percent by the second year (likely due to the spread of H. pylori bacteria).

Stomach Ulcer Diagnosis and Conventional Treatment

If you suspect you have a stomach ulcer, see your doctor to first rule out other causes of your pain. In order to diagnose a stomach ulcer, your doctor may perform an endoscopy, which allows the doctor to view the inside lining of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine. Once a diagnosis is verified, treatment options can begin.

Your doctor will likely take your medical history and perform a physical exam along with a blood test, plus ask you about your past use of medications and possibly do an X-ray to locate a stomach ulcer. Testing the blood for H. pylori, plus doing a urea breath test and/or stool test to look for the presence of H. pylori antigens, are common ways to diagnose an ulcer.

The goal of stomach ulcer treatments is to help reduce pain and inflammation in the digestive tract, boost the immune system to fight H. pylori bacteria, prevent complications, and lower the chance for future ulcers from forming or returning.

Today, conventional treatment options for stomach ulcers include:

• Stopping use of NSAIDs, alcohol and cigarettes.
• Antacids and acid-reducing medications. Wondering if taking these solves ulcers? Anti-acid medicine may be used for two to six weeks to help healing and relieve pain.Taking antacids for a stomach ulcer might help ease pain temporarily, but it will keep coming back if the underlying issue causing the ulcer isn’t resolved.
• Your doctor might also prescribe other medications to reduce stomach acid and coat and protect your ulcer, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine blockers, H2-receptor antagonists like Ranitidine or the protectant sucralfate (Carafate). However, ultimately you want to manage your symptoms naturally long-term instead of relying on medications since these aren’t always a long-term fix.
• Acid-blocking medications may also be given intravenously in severe cases.
• Antibiotics are sometimes used to control H.pylori, along with acid-suppressing medications, for about two to eight weeks. This combination is sometimes called “triple therapy” or “quadruple therapy.” Once antibiotics are stopped after about two to three weeks, acid-suppressing medications may be taken for up to eight weeks.
• Blood transfusions are used if bleeding due to an ulcer is severe.
• Rarely, surgery may be needed to treat a perforated or bleeding peptic ulcer.

Stomach Ulcer Treatment Plan: 4 Natural Treatments

1. Boost Immunity Against H.pylori

Many people host H. pylori in their bodies, but only a minority of people infected with H. pylori develop ulcers. A highly inflammatory lifestyle weakens the immune system and makes the digestive system more susceptible to an infection caused by H. pylori bacterium. H. pylori itself can then cause even more inflammation within the stomach and small intestine, creating a vicious cycle that’s hard to break.

Research shows that today about 30 percent to 40 percent of people in the U.S. get an H. pylori infection, but usually the infection remains dormant, without any noticeable symptoms emerging for years or even ever. Other research suggests that H. pylori is present in more than 90 percent of duodenal ulcers and about 80 percent of stomach ulcers.

H. pylori contributes to ulcers by damaging the mucous coating that protects the lining of the stomach and duodenum from acids. Once damaged, stomach acid is able to get through to the sensitive lining, causing burning and irritation. H. pylori can be spread through unclean water, food or utensils, plus through bodily fluids (like saliva) — but it’s only likely to cause an ulcer when someone’s immunity is low for other reasons.

Boost protection against infections by dropping poor lifestyle habits like smoking, drinking high amounts of alcohol, eating a poor diet high in processed foods, toxin exposure and a sedentary lifestyle — which favor inflammation, lower immunity and contribute to ulcer formation. Some of these can also make treatment of ulcers more difficult. For example, research facts show that smoking cigarettes makes ulcers harder to heal and possibly more painful.

You can also protect yourself from H. pylori infection by frequently washing your hands with soap and water and by eating foods that have been cooked completely.

2. Limit Use of NSAID Pain Relievers

People of any age who take NSAIDs every day or multiple times per week are more likely to develop stomach ulcers and heartburn compared to people who don’t take them very often. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or Advil) are prescribed very often to treat all sorts of conditions that cause a fever, pain and swelling — and some people rely on taking them practically every day to help control their chronic or reoccurring pain (such as headaches, arthritis/joint pain, PMS cramps, muscle tears, infections, colds and so on).

NSAIDs affect the gastrointestinal system by altering how digestive enzymes and stomach acids are produced. There are two enzymes that produce chemicals in your body that promote pain, inflammation and fever. NSAIDs not only decrease these enzymes, but at the same time lower production of another chemical that protects the stomach lining from stomach acid.​ NSAIDs also block the formation of some prostaglandins which usually protect against ulcers.

If you can, stop taking the NSAIDs or at least greatly reduce how much of them you take regularly. Talk to your doctor about other options for controlling pain. If you still need NSAIDs, take them with a meal, take a lower dose, or take them along with medications that can protect your stomach and duodenum.

3. Manage Stress

Although the theory that stress alone causes stomach ulcers is no longer fully supported, stress can still play a part in the development of ulcers, and the condition is still considered somewhat “psychosomatic.” When someone experiences chronic stress, the risk for a stomach ulcer goes up, since there’s a strong “gut-brain connection” involved in normal digestive processes. The body easily picks up on perceived threats and changes how digestion is carried out, which is why a very high percentage of people with anxiety/depression experience some sort of digestive illness or complaints.

People with anxiety and high amounts of stress have been observed to have higher than normal rates of ulcers and more frequent infections caused by H. pylori. Stress weakens the immune system and worsens digestion, making it more likely you become sick from various bacteria or microbes you come into contact with. In times of high stress, the body uses valuable energy to perform other “life-saving” functions beyond digesting food properly and protecting the body from passing microbes.

To help better manage stress, take advantage of natural stress relievers like regularly exercising, meditating or practicing healing prayer, spending time outdoors, getting good sleep, and using relaxing essential oils for anxiety.

4. Eat A Stomach Ulcer Diet

An improper diet that includes lots of packaged, processed foods and few fresh foods (like vegetables and fruit) raises the risk for ulcers by promoting inflammation and hindering immune functions. Skipping regular meals and eating only one to two times per day, but a large amount of food at once, can also make discomfort and ulcer symptoms worse in some people. While foods themselves don’t cause ulcers, some people find that eating spicy foods makes their symptoms worse (although this depends on the person and doesn’t affect everyone).

According to the Jackson Seigelbaum Gastroenterology Center, foods most frequently associated with gastric discomfort include:

• black pepper
• red or hot pepper and chili powder
• caffeine
• regular and decaffeinated coffee or tea
• alcohol
• cocoa, chocolate and cola beverages
• citrus fruits and juices
• fatty and fried foods
• tomato products
• peppermint

If your ulcer causes nausea and vomiting, it’s important to prevent dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and nutrient deficiencies. Some people with painful ulcers wind up eating less overall in order to avoid pain/burning and therefore risk not consuming enough calories and nutrients. The likelihood for inflammation and deficiencies is even higher if the food being consumed is low in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to begin with.

Other tips related to your diet to help control ulcers include:

• maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding obesity
• avoiding common stomach irritants and allergies to test your reactions (such as gluten and dairy products)
• quitting excessive alcohol use and stopping smoking, since alcohol and smoking irritate the gut lining 
• eating smaller meals throughout the day more regularly
• avoiding very hot foods or drinks
• not eating within three hours of bedtime

Final Thoughts

• Estimates show that about 500,000 new cases of peptic ulcers are reported each year in the U.S. alone, and at any given time about 5 million people are affected. In addition, one in 10 adults can expect to deal with painful ulcers at one point or another.
• The most common stomach ulcer symptoms include abdominal pains and burning sensations; bleeding when vomiting or going to the bathroom; nausea and vomiting; darker stool; loss of appetite and changes in body weight; trouble sleeping due to pain; other digestive complaints like heartburn, acid reflux and feeling gassy; the risk for perforation of the organ lining; and dehydration, weakness and fatigue.
• A high percentage of ulcers (up to 90 percent of all cases) can be resolved without the need for surgery or serious medication use.
• Men develop duodenal ulcers more often than any other kind, including stomach ulcers, contrary to popular belief. On the other hand, the opposite is true for women: They tend to develop more stomach ulcers and fewer ulcers of the duodenal. In general, women are more likely to have ulcers than men, especially if they’re over the age of 70 and take over-the-counter drugs or medications regularly. The peak age for experiencing ulcers is between 55 and 65 years old.
• Stomach ulcer treatments include: limiting the use of NSAID pain relievers, manage stress, boost immunity and control inflammation, and eat a low-processed, nutrient-dense diet.

Read Next: Stomach Pain Causes and 6 Natural Remedies to Treat Abdominal Pain

The post Stomach Ulcer Symptoms You Can’t Ignore and How to Naturally Treat Them appeared first on Dr. Axe.

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, around 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease and in the U.S. alone, 2.5 million people are currently undiagnosed and at risk for long-term health complications. (1)

Celiac disease was first described over 8,000 years ago by a Greek physician who had no idea that this disorder was a type of autoimmune reaction to gluten. (2) This information didn’t become clear for thousands of years later, when researchers realized that celiac patients were triggered by eating gluten, a protein found in numerous foods eaten all over the world (especially bread!).

Even in the past 50 years, we’ve come to understand much more about how celiac disease symptoms and gluten intolerance symptoms manifest, along with the dangers of untreated food allergies, such as malnutrition, stunted growth, neurological and psychiatric illness, and much more.

Most Common Celiac Disease Symptoms

Celiac disease — often triggered by an allergy to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley or rye grains — is believed to affect about a little less than 1 percent of all adults (most statistics indicate a diagnoses rate between 0.7 percent and 1 percent of the U.S. population). For people who have been diagnosed with celiac disease, following a gluten-free or gluten sensitivity diet is considered “medical nutrition therapy” and is the only definitive way to improve symptoms and prevent future health problems.

The presence of celiac disease and gluten intolerance has been rising significantly over the past several decades, although the debate is still out as to why this is. According to certain reports, celiac disease rates have risen by nearly 400 percent since the 1960s.

While celiac disease rates are still very low compared to other common chronic health problems — like cancer, diabetes, obesity or heart disease, for example — what’s alarming is that many experts in the field of food allergies and gluten intolerance believe the many more people might actually have celiac disease but not even realize it. For instance, researchers from the University of Chicago estimate that only about 15 percent to 17 percent of celiac cases are actually known in the U.S., making roughly 85 percent of people with celiac disease unaware of the problem. (3)

Many celiac disease symptoms boil down to dysfunction within the digestive track, including within the gut and intestines. Celiac disease is a type of autoimmune disease in which an inflammatory response to gluten damages tissue within the small intestine. The small intestine is the tube-shaped organ between the stomach and large intestine, where a high percentage of nutrient absorption takes place — however, in people with celiac disease this process stops working right.

According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, this disease can be difficult to diagnose because it affects people on all different levels in various ways. In fact, in people with gluten allergies it’s believed that there are hundreds of symptoms of celiac disease within the body that are related to the effects of the disease on the immune and digestive systems. (4)

Celiac disease symptoms typically include (5):

• bloating
• cramping and abdominal pain
• diarrhea or constipation
• trouble concentrating or “brain fog“
• changes in weight
• sleep disturbances including insomnia
• chronic fatigue or lethargy
• nutrient deficiencies (malnutrition) due to absorption problems within the digestive tract
• chronic headaches
• joint or bone pains
• changes in mood, such an anxiety
• tingling numbness in the hands and feet
• seizures
• irregular periods, infertility or recurrent miscarriage
• canker sores inside the mouth
• thinning hair and dull skin

Experts sometimes refer to gluten as a “silent killer” because it can be the source of lasting damage throughout the whole body, without someone even knowing it. The microbiome is considered “ground zero” for where celiac disease symptoms first start and spread throughout various tissue. Celiac disease symptoms can range in terms of intensity and depend on the person’s unique response, so not every person will experience the same reactions or signs.

For some people, practically no symptoms might be present. For others, their symptoms might start out as ongoing headaches, unexplained weight changes or feeling more anxious than usual. This can then continue to progress and turn into insomnia, feeling “wired but tired,” having joint pain, and even causing symptoms of depression and eventually cognitive decline or dementia in older people.

It can be hard to recognize celiac disease because symptoms are usually very similar to those caused by other digestive diseases and autoimmune conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), iron-deficiency anemia, food allergies like lactose intolerance, sensitivity to FODMAPs, or digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease and diverticulitis. (6)

Less Common Symptoms

While the list above represents more common symptoms of celiac disease, there have also been findings that suggest that damage done by this disease goes far beyond the gastrointestinal tract and that it manifests in ways different than what we previously thought. Research related to food allergies, including gluten intolerance, over the past few decades has revealed that gluten can have effects on almost every system in the body. (7) And whether or not someone displays any classic symptoms, all people with celiac disease are still at risk for long-term complications.

While not everyone with celiac disease will experience such drastic symptoms or problems, it’s possible that the underlying inflammatory reactions to gluten will cause health problems within the gut microbiome, brain, endocrine system, stomach, liver, blood vessels, smooth muscle and even the nuclei of cells. This is why celiac patients are at a higher risk for numerous diseases, including: (1)

• Anemia
• Type I diabetes
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy skin rash)
• Osteoporosis
• Infertility and miscarriage
• Neurological conditions like epilepsy and migraines
• Intestinal cancers
• Growth issues in children due to poor nutrient absorption

What Causes Celiac Disease Symptoms?

A gluten allergy (or sensitivity, meaning the type that isn’t celiac disease) increases the production of inflammatory cytokines. These are sent out from the immune system in order to attack perceived threats throughout the body. This happens in certain people due to a combination of both environmental and genetic factors. People with celiac disease usually have a genetic predisposition to having a gluten allergy (including abnormalities in human leukocyte antigens and non-HLA genes), although having celiac disease in the family alone doesn’t mean someone will necessarily be diagnosed. (8)

One of the hallmarks of celiac disease is high levels of antibodies resulting from contact with gliadin, one compound that makes up the protein gluten. Exposure to gliadin can turn on specific genes in someone’s immune cells that trigger the release of cytokine chemicals. Cytokines are normally beneficial when they do their intended job — helping repair and protect the body from things like bacteria, viruses, infections and injuries. However, we know that cytokines are also pivotal players in causing chronic inflammation, the root of most diseases.

High inflammation levels are tied to generally poor health and higher rates of disease. High inflammation ups the risk for myriad health problems, including mental disorders, autoimmune diseases and even cancer. Research also suggests that people with other autoimmune disorders and diabetes are at a higher risk for having celiac disease because they share some of the same genetic factors and immune reactions.

Why and how exactly does gluten cause such problems? It all comes down to the chemical composition of this protein and how it impacts the digestive organs. Gluten is found in certain grains and is considered an “antinutrient.” Antinutrients can be both good and bad — for example, some are called “phytonutrients” and are found in many vegetables and fruits. Antinutrients are present in plants that have evolved to protect themselves from threats by forming “toxins” that repel insects, bugs, rodents and fungus.

Gluten is one type of natural antinutrient that acts like a toxin when humans eat it — since it can damage the lining of the gut, bind essential minerals making them unavailable to the body, and inhibit digestion and absorption of essential nutrients, including protein.

How Celiac Disease Affects the Digestive System

When celiac disease symptoms increase, it’s a result of gluten kicking off inflammatory responses that are tied to dysfunction mostly within the digestive, endocrine and central nervous systems. Much of the problem begins in the gut, where a large percentage of the immune system is actually held. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, essentially an “alarm” goes off within the gut environment that sends the immune system into a tailspin.

Exposure to the gliadin protein increases gut permeability, which means small tears (or junctions) in the gut lining can open wider and allow for substances to pass through and enter the bloodstream. The immune system responds by damaging or destroying villi, which are the tiny protrusions that line the small intestines. Normally in someone who is healthy, the gut wall does a great job of keeping particles from emptying into the bloodstream, but irritations caused by food sensitives causes this system to break down.

This process is known as “leaky gut syndrome,” and when you develop this condition you can become highly susceptible to other food allergies or sensitivities that you didn’t previously have, due to the immune system working on overdrive to get things under control.

Gluten is also said to have certain “sticky” qualities that can interfere with proper absorption and digestion of important nutrients when people have a gluten intolerance, which leads to poorly digested food within the digestive tract, deficiencies and further inflammation. (9) When the immune system recognizes that foods aren’t being properly broken down within the intestines, leaky gut syndrome symptoms can increase as the body continues to assault the lining of the small intestine, causing reactions like abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and intestinal distress.

Leaky gut syndrome makes it possible for lipopolysaccharides to dysfunction, which are structural components of our small microbial cells that live within our guts. When these are able to penetrate the gut lining by sneaking through small openings in the gut wall, they increase systemic inflammation.

How Celiac Disease Affects the Central Nervous System

Many people think of celiac disease caused by food allergies as only damaging the digestive system, but in fact, the brain is one of the most susceptible organs to inflammation. Gluten increases inflammation and gut permeability but also can contribute to a breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, which means that certain substances can make their way to the brain that are normally kept out. This is exactly the reason why celiac disease symptoms can commonly include brain fog, depression, anxiety, trouble sleeping and fatigue.

And the brain isn’t even the only other organ that’s vulnerable to the effects of untreated food allergies — many people might not experience obvious signs of gastrointestinal troubles from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity but can still find that the immune system is “silently attacking” the body elsewhere, such as the muscles or joints.

Antibodies that are meant to attack gliadin appear to cross-react with certain brain proteins, meaning they bind to neuronal synapsis and contribute to complications within the brain. In some serious cases, when this occurs dysfunctions can show up in the form of seizures, learning disabilities and neuro-behavioral changes.

How Is Celiac Disease Different than Gluten Sensitivity?

Some researchers even speculate that a high percentage of the population might have some form of sensitivity to gluten, whether they truly suffer from celiac disease or not. In fact, it’s been suggested that nearly everyone has some level of negative reaction to gluten that falls somewhere along a spectrum, with some people (especially those with confirmed celiac disease) having reactions that are much more serious than those of others.

We now know that it’s possible to have “gluten intolerance” without having celiac disease. This condition is known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). (10) Even people who are not clinically allergic to gluten (they test negative for celiac disease and don’t appear to have some of the classic signs of not digesting the protein correctly) can experience similar widespread problems when eating foods with gluten, which tend to decrease substantially when they avoid eating it. While rates of celiac disease diagnoses remain relatively low, more and more people are also identifying themselves at sensitive or intolerant to the effects of gluten.

Why is this? One reason might be an overexposure to gluten, since this stuff is everywhere today! Gluten is an ingredient in many processed foods in one form or another and lurks in everything from cookies and cereal to ice cream, condiments and even beauty products. Another reason more people are choosing to stay away from gluten is that knowledge of its effects is steadily rising. The “gluten-free movement” has been growing in popularity — even big-name food manufacturers are now offering gluten-free flours, breads, cereals, etc. There is even gluten-free alcohol nowadays!

There’s also such thing as an allergy to wheat, which is different than an allergy to gluten. People with wheat allergies can also benefit from following gluten-free diets, but they don’t necessarily need to severely restrict rye, barley and oats from their diets like celiac patients do.

Celiac Disease Natural Treatment Plan

If you can identify with the celiac disease symptoms described above, it’s best to visit a doctor for screening tests and a confirmed diagnosis. Diagnoses are usually based on test results from a small bowel biopsy followed by clinical and serological responses to exposure to gluten to confirm the diagnosis.

Positive anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies or anti-endomysial antibodies are part of an official celiac disease diagnosis confirmation. Following a gluten-free diet during an elimination diet period can also show whether symptoms go away once gluten is removed.

1. Follow a Strict Gluten-Free Diet

There is no known cure for celiac disease, which is chronic and autoimmune in nature, so there are only ways to minimize symptoms and help rebuild the immune system. First and foremost, it’s crucial to follow a completely gluten-free diet if you have celiac disease by avoiding all products containing wheat, barley or rye (see my article on the celiac disease diet). Gluten makes up about 80 percent of the protein found in these three grains, although it’s also hiding in many other products and grains with cross-contamination too.

Keep in mind that because a large percentage of people’s diets is now based on packaged foods, most people come into contact with gluten more often than ever before. Modern food-processing techniques even often result in gluten appearing in trace amounts in products containing other “gluten-free grains,” such as corn or gluten-free oats.

It’s important to read food labels very carefully and avoid products made with additive ingredients that contain even small traces of gluten — such as nearly all flour products, soy sauce, dressings or marinades, malt, syrups, dextrin, starch, and many more “sneaky” ingredients. The Celiac Disease Foundation offers helpful resources for how to strictly avoid gluten, including this list of gluten sources, when grocery shopping or eating out at restaurants. (11)

The good news is that you still have plenty of options when following a gluten-free diet, and today there’s even a plethora of gluten-free food items available on the market, including ancient grains and gluten-free flours.

A lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet will allow the immune system to repair itself, which will keep symptoms from flaring up. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to many months depending on the severity. Avoiding gluten allows the villous atrophy in the small intestines or gut lining to close up once again and helps prevent future complications caused by ongoing inflammation.

2. Correct Any Nutrient Deficiencies

Many people with celiac disease also need to take supplements to help rebuild their nutrient stores and heal symptoms caused by malabsorption. This can include deficiencies in iron, calcium and vitamin D, zinc, B6, B12, and folate. These are a common celiac disease symptoms because the digestive tract cannot absorb nutrients as well when damage and inflammation occurs, which means even if you eat a great diet otherwise, you might still have deficiencies. (13)

You can talk to your doctor about performing tests to confirm any deficiencies, and then you can take quality supplements to help speed up the healing process and fill in any gaps.

Your doctor might prescribe dietary supplements in high doses or encourage you to take a gluten-free multivitamin. Most gluten-free foods do not have fortification with additional nutrients (like many packaged enriched wheat products are) so supplements are another way to cover your bases. Of course, loading up on nutrient-dense healing foods is the best way to obtain more vitamins and minerals naturally.

3. Avoid Other Household or Cosmetic Items Made with Gluten

Surprisingly, it’s not just foods containing gluten that you need to avoid in your daily life. There are also many non-food items that can contain gluten and trigger symptoms including: (14)

• Toothpaste
• Glue on stamps and envelopes
• Laundry detergent
• Lip gloss and lip balm
• Body lotion and sunscreen
• Makeup
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Playdough
• Shampoo
• Soaps
• Vitamins

4. Seek Professional Help

Changing your diet to a gluten-free can be very challenging for some people. It’s very important that you follow a gluten-free diet that is truly health and nutrient-rich. Many people can manage to avoid gluten, but don’t necessarily make the healthiest choices and therefore can miss key vitamins and minerals which only slows down the healing process and could lead to additional problems. Don’t hesitate to talk to a registered dietitian to help you to establish a really healthy gluten-free diet. There are also celiac disease support groups that can offer guidance.

5. Consider Additional Tests to Check Bones, Skin and Joints

Some doctors will order a bone density test or other tests to determine if deficiencies have caused problems like bone loss or joint inflammation. You may also consider having various leaky gut syndrome tests done to determine how severe your condition has become.

Precautions

If you suspect that you have celiac disease, you should see a doctor for screening tests and a confirmed diagnosis as soon as possible.

When purchasing food items, if you feel unsure about whether or not something contains gluten based on labeling along with ingredient label reading then it’s best to be on the safe side and avoid this product or you can always seek out additional information from the company directly. (15)

It’s important to have your children tested if you and/or one of your other children already have the diagnosis of celiac disease. Children can begin showing signs of the disease as an infant including celiac symptoms like vomiting, bloating, pain, diarrhea, and irritability. The teeth of children with celiac may be have pits, grooves, discoloration or malformation. It’s very important to seek medical attention if you think your child may have celiac disease because it can cause stunted growth or failure to thrive. (16)

Final Thoughts

• Celiac disease is serious autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.
• It’s possible to have “gluten intolerance” without having celiac disease, which is a condition known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).
• Celiac disease symptoms can include bloating, cramping and abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, trouble concentrating, mood disturbances, weight changes, sleep disturbances, nutrient deficiencies, and more.
• There is currently no cure for celiac disease, but being very strict about avoiding gluten can alleviate symptoms and allow your intestine to repair itself.
• A natural treatment program for celiac disease includes:
  • Following a strict gluten-free diet
  • Avoiding other unexpected sources of gluten including common household items like lip balm, vitamins and over-the-counter medications.
  • Supplements to help rebuild nutrient stores and heal symptoms caused by malabsorption.
  • Find a registered dietitian who can help to ensure you are following a truly healthy and well-rounded gluten-free diet.
  • Additional testing to check for additional health problems resulting from celiac disease.

The post Natural Treatment Plan for Celiac Disease Symptoms appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome, or cyclical vomiting, is a rare illness that causes episodes of severe nausea and vomiting. In between the episodes, most people are symptom-free. Although the cause of the condition is not yet known, many people have triggers that they can learn to avoid and symptoms they can manage with natural remedies.

What Is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (also called CVS) is a condition in which someone periodically has bouts of severe nausea and vomiting. In general, they feel well in between episodes, which can last from a few hours to several days. In addition, individuals tend to have similar episode characteristics each time they experience a bout of nausea/vomiting with cyclic vomiting syndrome. For example, the symptoms may happen at the same time of day or after a similar activity or trigger. Each episode may also last about the same amount of time. Unfortunately, episodes of nausea and vomiting can be debilitating, making it nearly impossible for people with the condition to take part in regular activities until symptoms subside.

Cyclic vomiting syndrome typically begins in childhood. However, adults may develop the condition, and it is becoming more common in adults over time. It may be defined as having three or more episodes in a six-month period with no apparent cause, or having five or more episodes ever. (1) For most people, the problem resolves in a few months to a few years, but some people have the condition for decades.

The condition is rare and can be a challenge to diagnose because nausea and vomiting are common symptoms for many other illnesses. Cyclic vomiting syndrome may be hard to distinguish from abdominal migraines or cannabis hyperemesis syndrome — a condition caused by chronic marijuana use that also results in excessive nausea and vomiting.

Children with cyclic vomiting syndrome often outgrow the condition but are then more likely to develop migraines as adults.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome include: (2)

• Recurrent periods of severe nausea and vomiting, lasting from a few hours to a few days (Attacks tend to last longer in adults than in children.)
• Similar characteristics for each episode (This may include time of day, how long they last, severity, other symptoms that happen at the same time and circumstances that came just before the episode. Many people have the episodes early in the morning.)
• Severe nausea that does not improve after vomiting
• Dry heaving often continues even after the stomach is emptied.
• In children, projectile vomiting and bouts of rapid-fire vomiting can happen. Vomiting may occur several times per hour, or even every few minutes for children.

During an episode, symptoms may also include: (1, 2)

• Excessive sweating
• Compulsively drinking water to try to dilute stomach bile and make vomiting easier
• Pale skin
• Lack of energy, inability to walk around
• Social withdrawal
• Appearing almost unconscious
• Drooling
• Fever
• Green or yellow color to the vomit
• Gagging
• Diarrhea
• Severe stomach pain
• Loss of appetite
• Headaches
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Dehydration or weight loss

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Causes and Risk Factors

There is no known cause for cyclic vomiting syndrome. Some research indicates the problem may be related to a miscommunication disorder between the brain and the gut. However, many people with the condition can pick out a trigger or a set of circumstances that precede the episodes. These triggers may cause an episode of vomiting to start. Common triggers include: (1, 2)

• Excitement or stress, particularly in young children
• Stress, anxiety or panic attacks, particularly in adults
• Certain foods (common dietary triggers include MSG, chocolate, caffeine and cheese)
• Overeating
• Eating right before bed
• Fasting
• Physical exhaustion
• Heavy exercise
• Lack of sleep
• Menstruation
• Motion sickness
• Weather changes
• Hot weather
• Allergies or sinus issues
• Colds or infections

Risk factors for cyclic vomiting syndrome include: (2)

• Having migraines
• A family history of migraines
• Anxiety or panic disorders
• Being female (only a slight increase in risk compared to males)
• Being a child between three and seven years old
• Having gastroesophageal reflux

Diagnosis

Cyclic vomiting syndrome diagnosis is done through a careful medical history and symptom evaluation. You will have a physical exam. In most cases, doctors have to rule out many conditions that can cause repeated episodes of vomiting. It can take years for some people to find the right diagnosis.

There is no formal test for the condition, but you may be given tests to rule out other health problems. These tests may include blood and urine tests, imaging of the gastrointestinal tract (such as an ultrasound or endoscopy) and motility tests (to check how food moves through your system).

Conventional Treatment

Between episodes, cyclic vomiting syndrome treatment involves trying to prevent new episodes, either through avoiding the trigger or taking medication. It may take several episodes to find out how to stop vomiting episodes for you, or how to relieve your symptoms. Medical options include: (3)

• Drugs to relieve nausea or pain
• Drugs to prevent vomiting (antiemetics)
• Medication to suppress seizures or stomach acid
• Antidepressants (to reduce vomiting)
• Migraine drugs

Once an episode has started, the goal of treatment is symptom relief. If you or your family have a history of migraines, you may be told to take a migraine prescription when an episode starts. If vomiting causes dehydration, you may need to be hospitalized to receive fluid through a vein in the arm (IV fluids). Many people also need pain medicine, sedation and anti-nausea or antiemetic medication during episodes.

5 Natural Remedies for Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

There is no cure for cyclic vomiting syndrome, but there are many ways you may be able to better manage symptoms. Some of these are natural remedies that can help you avoid episodes and even relieve some symptoms.

Before you change your habits or diet or start taking a new supplement, speak with a healthcare professional. Some options for trying to manage CVS naturally include:

1. Identify and avoid your triggers

This is a key strategy for people with CVS. Unfortunately, to do it effectively you have to know what your triggers are.

• Think about the events that have happened just before your episodes. Do they share anything in common, such as excitement or anxiety, weather, physical fatigue, food, menstruation or illness? If so, you may already have a good idea of your potential triggers.
• If you can’t find anything in common, you may need to start a diary to record preceding events and circumstances the next few times you have an episode. Be very thorough, from the temperature to your meals and activities, emotional state and more.
• Once you know your triggers, avoid them. Some of the strategies below discuss ways to minimize or avoid common triggers, such as emotional stress and physical exhaustion. If your trigger seems to be a certain type of food, cut it out of your diet or cut back on how much you have. If your trigger seems to be an entire food group, talk to a nutritionist to make sure you know how to get a balanced diet even without those types of foods.
• Track when your episodes occur. Once you start avoiding a possible trigger, you should be able to tell if your episodes are less frequent by looking at the length of time between episodes before versus after the change. You may also be able to find other possible triggers once one trigger is removed by finding similarities in circumstances with the future, hopefully rarer, episodes.

2. Fight symptoms during an episode

For most people with CVS, the intensity of symptoms are similar from one episode to the next. However, you may be able to identify things to do during an episode that give you some relief. Options include:

• Try natural relief options for migraines. Migraines and CVS are closely linked. If you benefit from migraine treatment, you may have significantly fewer episodes of CVS. General headache remedies may also bring relief.
• Explore natural nausea remedies. These can include teas, such as ginger or chamomile tea. They may also include aromatherapy or use of essential oils such as peppermint or lemon.
• Reduce your fever symptoms. Many people find that a warm shower or bath helps their nausea. Provided the shower or bath is not too hot, it may also help control fever symptoms and relieve the sensation of feeling constantly sweaty.
• Fight dehydration. Loss of fluids is an obvious side effect of CVS and is the most common reason people with CVS need hospitalization. Drinking water helps relieve the discomfort of vomiting stomach bile for some people. It can also help you stay hydrated. Know the key signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance to make sure you’re taking in enough fluid, and when to go for emergency care.
• Minimize diarrhea. Although your entire gastrointestinal tract may seem to be going haywire, you may be able to fight diarrhea by resting, staying hydrated and eating only bland foods during your episodes.
• Ease dizziness. Many people with CVS feel some relief from symptoms overall when they lay down in a dark, quiet place. Closing your eyes may help ease dizziness. Avoid hot places and rehydrate with coconut water or an electrolyte drink. Ask for assistance if you need it to walk or stand so that you don’t fall during your episode.
• Recover from dehydration and fatigue when an episode ends. Drink clear liquids, broths, fruit juices or electrolyte drinks. There is no known cyclic vomiting syndrome diet to help avoid CVS or help during episodes, other than avoiding trigger foods. You can return to a normal, balanced diet as soon as you feel able. (4)

3. Ask about supplements

Some formal research supports the use of co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10), riboflavin and L-carnitine for people with CVS. The condition is believed to have some link to the mitochondria in the body’s cells. Mitochondria give our cells energy to grow. Co-enzyme Q10 and L-carnitine naturally help cells move energy and clear waste. Early research in people with CVS shows the supplements may be helpful. (2)

• Co-enzyme Q10 may prevent or fight CVS episodes. More than two-thirds of people taking co-enzyme Q10 in a research study had at least a 50 percent reduction in either the number of episodes of CVS, how long the episodes lasted, the number of times they vomited or how severe their nausea was. (5)
• L-carnitine may increase the length of time between episodes. A small study of people with CVS found that long-term supplementation with L-carnitine increased length of time between episodes from an average of 1.7 months to 1.1 years. The average dose taken was 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. (6)
• Combining co-enzyme Q10 and L-carnitine may be even more effective. In a study combining these two supplements, nearly every patient with CVS had dramatic reductions in the number of episodes they had, with 23 of 29 cases resolving completely. An additional few people had the number of episodes reduced by 50 to 75 percent. It is important to note, however, that when the two supplements didn’t work well enough on their own for some people, amitriptyline was added (a depression drug that helps reduce vomiting). (7)
• Riboflavin may reduce CVS episodes. Also used as a preventative supplement for people with migraines, a small study in children with CVS found that taking riboflavin effectively helped prevent episodes of CVS. It worked without combining it with any other CVS medications. (8)

4. Minimize emotional stress

Emotional stress, both good and bad, has a strong role in many cases of CVS. Many children with the condition have episodes around exciting events, such as holidays and birthday parties. Adults with CVS often have anxiety-related episodes.

If you have a warning period prior to a CVS episode, start using stress relief techniques immediately to potentially fight the stress response or even a panic attack playing into the episode. You may be able to restore your internal balance and avoid the episode altogether.

Try these strategies for managing stress in the hopes of reducing episodes: (3)

• Downplay events that may excite your child with CVS. Remaining calm and collected as a parent can help your child avoid emotional extremes when something exciting happens.
• Prepare for important events. Returning to school, taking exams and attending stressful or exciting events can trigger CVS episodes. By preparing in advance (for example, talking about what will happen, taking steps to help yourself or your child feel ready and therefore less anxious or overwhelmed), some people experience less stress during the event.
• Try cognitive behavioral therapy or biofeedback. These techniques can help many people adjust their thinking about stressful situations. Biofeedback also helps people identify what is happening in their bodies so they can work to address it. Together, the approaches have been used to manage CVS, even after medications have failed. The two approaches may help improve your sense of self-control and stress management. (9)
• Find your own stress management techniques. Deep breathing, restorative yoga or meditation, spending time with friends and family, reading, listening to calming music and many other techniques may help you keep stress and anxiety in check. You can also try natural anxiety remedies, including aromatherapy and exercise.

5. Get plenty of rest

A common trigger for CVS includes physical exhaustion. Whether it’s lack of sleep or an excessive workout, physical fatigue is no friend of someone with CVS.

• Aim for enough sleep every night. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should have at least seven hours every night, teens should have at least eight, school-age children should have at least nine and preschoolers should have at least 10 hours. (10)
• Rest during episodes. A quiet, dark room can help many people relax. Sleep may be the only relief from intense symptoms for people during an episode. In severe cases, going to the hospital for sedation may be the only way to manage symptoms and induce sleep during an episode and should not be avoided. (11)
• Avoid excessive exertion. For example, don’t run a marathon. Less obvious activities that may lead to exhaustion include long days on your feet, activity-packed events such as school physical fitness days or double-header games and traveling. When you are recovering from an illness, surgery, childbirth or other physical or emotional stressors, give yourself extra time to rest before returning to your routine. 

Precautions

If you suspect you or your child has symptoms of cyclic vomiting syndrome, see a healthcare provider. Symptoms of this condition can overlap with many other conditions and a proper diagnosis can be critical to getting the right treatment.

Excessive vomiting can cause serious dehydration, which can be fatal. If someone with cyclic vomiting syndrome feels very weak or cannot keep any liquids down, or if urine is dark, go to the emergency room. Fluids can be given directly into the veins to help keep hydration at a healthy level until the episode passes.

Seek emergency care if your vomit contains blood. You should also seek urgent medical care if you feel you need medication to help with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sleep or pain.

Follow your health care provider’s instructions for treating CVS episodes. Cyclic vomiting syndrome treatment guidelines recommend different levels of intervention based on severity of nausea and vomiting. For some patients, your care plan may involve going to the hospital as soon as vomiting starts to avoid dehydration. (12) Do not take herbs, supplements or other drugs without the advice of a healthcare professional. Even natural remedies can interact with medication or cause serious side effects, including nausea, diarrhea and dizziness.

Final Thoughts

• Cyclic vomiting syndrome, or CVS, is a rare condition that causes occasional episodes of repeated vomiting. The episodes usually share a trigger and other characteristics, such as the time of day they happen or how long they last.
• The true cause of CVS is unknown, but it is believed to be a problem in communication between the gut and the brain. In most cases, episodes are triggered by emotional stress (even excitement) or anxiety.
• The condition is most common in people with migraines or a family history of migraines.
• Symptoms include severe nausea and vomiting lasting hours to several days. People with CVS may be incapacitated during these episodes.
• Conventional medical treatment may include medicines to fight migraines, seizures, depression, nausea and vomiting. In some cases, medication can be taken to try to prevent episodes, but most drugs are given once an episode begins, to try to stop or lessen symptoms.
• Cyclic vomiting syndrome natural treatment options include identifying and avoiding triggers, fighting symptoms during an episode, asking about coenzyme Q10 or L-carnitine, minimizing emotional stress and getting plenty of rest.

The post Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: 5 CVS Natural Remedies appeared first on Dr. Axe.

You might eat a healthy diet. You may try to take the right supplements and drink pure, hydrating beverages. But all that might not matter if your digestive tract cannot actually absorb the nutrients you’re eating and drinking. Here’s what you need to know about malabsorption syndrome and natural ways to get your digestive tract back on track.

What Is Malabsorption Syndrome?

What is nutrient malabsorption?

When food enters your digestive tract, and more specifically your small intestine, the intestine’s role is to absorb the nutrients in the food you eat. But sometimes there’s a breakdown in the chain of activities that occur in your digestive tract.

Malabsorption syndrome is when at least one of the following three processes in the digestion process (1) goes awry and doesn’t function properly:

• Enzymes break down the fats, proteins and carbohydrates in your food.
• Additional enzymes convert some nutrients into active forms that your body then absorbs.
• Your lymphatic system then transports and carries these absorbed nutrients to various parts of your body.

Signs and Symptoms

Malabsorption syndrome symptoms and signs are inherently linked with various nutritional deficiencies. Thus, the symptoms can be very subtle, and different from person to person depending on what specific nutrients their bodies are not absorbing properly.

It’s also important to note that some cases of malabsorption syndrome are linked with specific diseases, such as celiac disease or liver disease or pancreatitis, which bring with them their own set of specific side effects.

However, some general symptoms may be present in most, if not all, cases of malabsorption syndrome: (2)

• Weight loss
• Loss of muscle mass
• Weakness and chronic fatigue
• Poor mental clarity or trouble thinking
• Changes in your stool and digestion, including:
  • Diarrhea from bile acid malabsorption
  • Bulky stools
  • Fat in stool
  • Mucus in stool
  • Excess gas
  • Bloating
  • Cramping

What are the symptoms of fat malabsorption?

There may be nutrient-specific stool and body symptoms that can help you and your doctor diagnose exactly what’s going on.

For instance, if your stool is light in color, floats easily or sticks to the toilet, and is very soft, you may not be absorbing fats. This results in fatty stools with these fat malabsorption symptoms and characteristics.

If you aren’t absorbing certain carbohydrates (such as fructose malabsorption), you may experience diarrhea, gas or bloating.

If your body isn’t getting enough protein, you may notice hair loss, skin rashes or dry skin, or fluid retention.

Can you have malabsorption and weight gain?

If you aren’t getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals, you may experience weight loss, anemia, malnutrition and more.

Causes and Risk Factors

What causes intestinal malabsorption?

In many people, simple factors — such as poor gut health or a poor diet — can lead to malabsorption. However, in more severe cases, malabsorption may arise due to major risk factors and disease-related causes, such as: (3)

1. Celiac disease. Approximately 1 percent of the population has this disease (4) which can affect how their bodies digest food, especially when gluten is present in their diet.
2. Lactose intolerance. Approximately 65 percent of the population have trouble digesting lactose. (5) The stress that lactose places on your digestive system can affect how your body processes and absorbs essential nutrients.
3. Short bowel syndrome. If you have a problem with your small intestine due to birth defects, a disease or even an injury, you may need surgery. The resulting surgery can shorten the length of your intestine, and less intestine means less nutrients get absorbed.
4. Whipple’s disease. It’s a very rare disease of the digestive tract caused by a bacteria infection, (6) and it can hamper your intestine’s ability to process and absorb fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
5. Medications. Some drugs may affect how your body processes and absorbs specific nutrients.

In more unusual, and very rare cases, malabsorption can be a side effect of parasites, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis and other health concerns.

Malabsorption Conventional Treatment

To diagnose your condition and figure out if your symptoms are signs of malabsorption syndrome or some other problem, your doctor may do one or more of the following: (7)

• Ask you about your symptoms and review your medical history.
• Order a blood or stool test.
• Take a biopsy to examine the tissue in your small intestine.

A stool test is one of the most reliable tests for malabsorption, especially when trying to test whether or not your body is absorbing fat. Your doctor may also look for signs of undigested food in your stool.

Meanwhile, a blood test is one of the more reliable tests for nutrient deficiencies.

Conventional treatment for malabsorption syndrome depends on the underlying cause, as it’s important that your doctor deal with the root issue and not just the symptoms. (8) It’s critical to understand that occasional signs and symptoms of malabsorption, such as bloating and gas, are not immediate cause for concern. What is concerning are any long-term nutritional deficiencies.

In some situations, the underlying cause can be overcome by taking antibiotics to get rid of bacterial infections or changing medications if one of the drugs was contributing to malabsorption.

In cases where the underlying cause can’t be “cured” (e.g. if your intestine is shortened due to surgery, or if you’re experiencing a chronic condition like lactose intolerance), your doctor may implement special dietary measures.

For example, if you’re lactose intolerant, your doctor may recommend a lactose-free malabsorption treatment diet.

5 Natural Ways to Help Improve Malabsorption

If you want to improve how your body breaks down food, and processes and absorbs your food’s nutrients, try these malabsorption treatment natural ideas.

1. Consider Taking Supplements Containing Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are active substances that assist your body in breaking down specific nutrients. (9) This can help your body access more of the key nutrients in your food.

For carbohydrate absorption, consider the following enzymes:

• Amylase
• Cellulase
• Lactase (ideal specifically for those with a lactose problem)
• Maltase
• Sucrase

For protein digestion:

• Bromelain
• Papain

For digestion of fat:

• Lipase

You can find these enzymes in various over-the-counter natural health supplements, many of which are sourced from plant-based ingredients so people of all diet types and styles can benefit from them.

2. Change Your Diet

In conjunction with the advice of your doctor and a registered dietitian, you may benefit from a high-calorie diet. This gives your body extra vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Even if your body isn’t absorbing enough of one of these key nutrients, a higher-calorie diet supplies excess amounts of your missing nutrients so you have a higher chance of hitting your basic nutritional benchmarks.

Similarly, your doctor may suggest taking supplements so you get more of the specific nutrient you’re not absorbing. If you’re not getting enough protein from your food, for example, a protein powder made from bone broth can give you an extra dose of protein, electrolytes and minerals.

A registered dietitian may also test various approaches to diet. For example, your body digests and absorbs medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) faster and more efficiently than traditional dietary fat. (10) If your doctor’s tests identify fat malabsorption as an issue, a registered dietitian may help provide recipes and meal plans that include more MCTs and less traditional dietary fats for a fat malabsorption treatment that doesn’t sacrifice other important nutritional building blocks.

Because men and women with malabsorption are already at a higher risk of malnutrition, it’s important that you work with a dietary expert before trying to self-treat this condition through diet alone.

3. Eat More Fiber

The average adult needs at least 30 grams of fiber a day from food (not supplements), yet most people only get about 15 grams of fiber daily. (11)

Fiber has many benefits for the general population, but especially those with malabsorption syndrome. By eating more fiber, you boost digestion and also slow down how long food stays in your digestive tract. (12) This gives your body more time to process and absorb key nutrients.

A high-fiber diet has also been linked to a reduction in various digestive tract issues, including acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. (13)

Some of the best sources of fiber include dark green, leafy vegetables; whole grains, such as steel-cut oatmeal, sprouted whole grain bread, and quinoa; and legumes, such as kidney beans, pinto beans or black beans.

4. Reduce Stress

You can’t see stress, but your digestive system can definitely feel its effects. When you’re under a lot of pressure and experiencing stress or anxiety, your body diverts blood and other resources away from your digestive system, which can slow down or block proper digestion from happening.

To lower stress and improve digestion, Harvard Medical School recommends cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation therapy or hypnosis. (14)

Other de-stressing strategies include meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises.

5. Chew Your Food

Not chewing your food well has been linked to a reduction in how many nutrients your body absorbs from your diet. (15)

When you chew properly, your mouth begins the important digestion process. Your teeth break down the food into easier-to-manage particles, and the enzymes in your saliva start to break down the fats and the carbohydrates in your food. The saliva also helps carry your food efficiently through your intestines.

To improve your approach to chewing:

• Slow down. Aim to chew and swallow before reaching for the next bite.
• Avoid distractions. When you sit down to eat, focus simply on eating. When you’re distracted by watching TV or reading a book, you may inadvertently scarf down your food too fast.
• Be mindful. Practicing mindfulness helps slow your eating pace, which in turn helps put less strain on your digestive tract. Bring your awareness to your meal and notice the different temperatures, flavors, textures and smells in every bite.

Precautions

Malabsorption may seem like something that’s easy to fix simply through diet and lifestyle changes. However, it’s important to remember that if your body isn’t getting the fats, proteins, carbohydrates, minerals or vitamins that it needs to thrive, this can lead to major complications and health risks.

For example, if you’re not getting enough protein, you may experience muscle wasting, muscle loss, poor strength and a related increase in injury risks.

Or, if you’re not getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially zinc, vitamin A or niacin, your immune system’s strength may suffer.

If you have any concerns about malabsorption, contact your doctor immediately to get a diagnosis and begin the road to recovery and full health.

Final Thoughts

Even if you eat a healthy diet, you may be missing out on important vitamins, minerals or other nutrients thanks to malabsorption:

• Malabsorption syndrome refers to any case where your body’s digestion process is broken and your body doesn’t absorb enough nutrients.
• Three key digestion steps that could go awry include: how your food is broken down, how your food is absorbed, and how that food is transported through your body.
• Signs and symptoms are often unique to the specific nutrient that you’re not getting enough of, but general symptoms include weight loss, loss of muscle mass, and changes in your stool.
• Major causes and risk factors include malabsorption diseases (e.g. celiac disease), genetics (e.g. lactose intolerance), bacteria infections (e.g. Whipple disease), certain medications, or physical realities (e.g. a shorter intestine due to past surgery).
• Conventional diagnosis and treatment usually involves blood and stool tests, then changes to your medications, diet or lifestyle.
• Malabsorption syndrome can lead to major complications, so immediate treatment is always necessary. You should always work with your doctor and dietitian.

The post Malabsorption Syndrome (Plus, 5 Natural Ways to Get the Nutrients Your Body Needs) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Perhaps you’ve heard the term ‘anti-inflammatory diet’ over recent years and wondered what all the hype is about. I’m here to tell you that it’s not some trendy diet trend about anti-inflammatory foods or crazy fad (or really even a diet at all!), rather a holistic way to naturally support your body and just about any chronic illness you may be experiencing. And it’s likely easier than you think!

I can confidently say that transitioning to an anti-inflammatory diet has been the No. 1 thing that’s not only completely changed my life, but has reversed my chronic health conditions of leaky gut, IBS (I wrote about both in “how a food writer healed her digestion woes,” hypothyroidism, PCOS (hormonal imbalance) and insulin resistance.

How the Anti-Inflammatory Diet Changed My Life

For several years before my diagnoses, I struggled with chronic constipation, unexplained nausea, fatigue, irregular periods, acne, PMS, weight gain and irregular blood sugar.

All symptoms that I learned were caused, at least in part, by inflammation, the root cause of so many diseases.

Today, I’ve never felt better in my entire life; I have regular digestion, balanced hormones, energy throughout the day, mental clarity and clear skin. In fact, I even got pregnant on my first try (a big deal for someone with hormonal imbalance)!

Even more amazing: within one week of treating my digestive disorders naturally, I noticed a nearly 100 percent improvement. After one month, I felt like my digestion was totally back on track and doing what it was supposed to do. I couldn’t believe how fast it worked, especially considering how many years I suffered!

It may be cliché, but nothing is more true: food is medicine.

Whether you’re suffering from a disease, are experiencing any of the inflammation symptoms I did or maybe you just generally feel like you’re not living your best life, I can almost guarantee that adopting an anti-inflammatory diet will support your health and get you feeling better (and fast!).

Wondering if you’re inflamed? Take this quiz to determine whether you’re experiencing inflammation or if you’re at risk for inflammatory diseases.

Let’s start at the beginning.

What Is Inflammation?

Simply put, inflammation is the body’s natural response to protect itself against harm. For example, acute inflammation happens when you cut your finger. There’s visible redness, swelling and pain. This is a healthy and much needed response in the body during a time of crisis, but then it goes away.

However, chronic inflammation doesn’t go away. Due to all kinds of stressors — toxins from our food supply, cigarette smoke, chemicals in our cleaning and beauty products, extra body fat, chronic stress, recurring infections and over-reactive immune systems, to name a few — your body stays in a ongoing state of inflammation.

As a result, our cells start attacking our body and cause a host of diseases and debilitating conditions, including but not limited to: rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, digestive disorders (from IBD and IBS to ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), asthma, ulcers, hay fever, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and even cancer.

Even if you don’t have one of these serious diseases, you could still be experiencing chronic inflammation (that, in turn, could potentially lead to a more serious disease down the road) if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Digestive problems like gas, diarrhea, bloating or constipation
• Skin problems like eczema or psoriasis, or generally red/blotchy skin
• Allergies
• Brain fog, depression or anxiety
• High blood glucose levels
• Excess fat around your abdomen

While that all may sound scary, the great news is there is so much you can do to reverse these conditions and reduce inflammation. The biggest game changer? Your diet!

What Is an Anti-Inflammatory Diet?

Health starts with food.

Think of it like this: the food we eat can either be inflammatory or anti-inflammatory. When we eat inflammatory foods, our body’s immune response flares up, creating acute inflammation. When we continue to eat that way, it never gets “turned off.”

But when we eat anti-inflammatory foods, we reduce the inflammation in our body, and thus reduce any symptoms caused by inflammation and, ultimately, our risk for chronic disease. YES!

Here’s a list of the best anti-inflammatory foods to eat more of:

• Organic fruits and veggies (tip: drink one green smoothie every day for an easy, delicious way to get 2–4 servings of fruit/veggies in!)
• Whole grains
• Fermented foods rich in probiotics
• Bone broth to heal the gut and boost immunity
• Beans and legumes
• Healthy fats (like salmon, avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds)
• Spices and herbs

Here’s a list of the worst inflammatory foods to reduce or avoid altogether:

• Refined, processed and fast food
• Vegetable and canola oils
• Factory-farmed animal products (aim for grass-fed, pasture-raised and/or organic options)
• Conventional dairy (again, aim for organic, grass-fed and/or raw)
• Alcohol and caffeine

While it may sound like a lot at first, it’s important to relax and remember to follow the 80-20 rule. You don’t have to completely cut out entire food groups to reduce inflammation in your body.

Instead, it’s about eating more of the good (real, whole food) and simply less of the bad (processed, refined junk). Follow an anti-inflammatory diet 80 percent of the time, and give yourself permission to indulge in other foods 20 percent of the time. This isn’t about deprivation or sacrifice —it’s about finding a sustainable way to help you feel better and reduce health risks while still enjoying your life.

Kate Kordsmeier is a food journalist turned real food expert after her own chronic health issues (PCOS, hypothyroidism + IBS) catapulted her into a long journey of trying to heal her body naturally. Today, she blogs full-time over at Root + Revel, a natural living site helping people strike the balance between good and good for you.

The post How An Anti-Inflammatory Diet Helped Me Reverse Chronic Health Conditions appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Many people describe tenesmus as a very distressing symptom because you never know when it’s going to be triggered and return.

How long does tenesmus last? It depends on the underlying cause. Symptoms can last for weeks or months. Women are more frequently affected by tenesmus than men, since they experience more GI issues in general. Some people experience chronic tenesmus that comes and goes. Tenesmus can be temporary if it’s caused by an infection, acute traumatic stress, surgery or another short-term illness. If IBS, IBD or cancer is causing tenesmus, then it’s likely that it will return from time to time without treatment.

Treating tenesmus usually involves identifying the underlying cause (such as inflammatory bowel disease, IBS or an infection), making lifestyle and diet changes, and sometimes taking medications to control symptoms if needed.

What Is Tenesmus?

Tenesmus is defined as “the sensation of urgently needing to evacuate the bowels even though they are empty.” (1) It’s one of the most common symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. (2) Tenesmus is sometimes called rectal tenesmus because it primarily results from inflammation of the rectum, the final section of the large intestine that ends at the anus.

Vesical tenesmus is similar to rectal tenesmus, but instead of affecting the rectum it affects the bladder. Vesical tenesmus is characterized by the feelings of being unable to completely empty the bladder and having to frequently urinate even though not much urine comes out.

Tenesmus Symptoms & Signs

The most common tenesmus symptoms include: (3)

• Feeling like you need to go to the bathroom (empty the bowels) right away. This can happen suddenly out of nowhere, or right after you finish using the bathroom. You might get up from the toilet and feel like you need to sit right back down again, but then nothing will actually happen.
• Having multiple very small bowel movements throughout the day.
• Abdominal pain and discomfort. Pain usually goes away after passing a bowel movement.
• Cramping in the intestines and stomach.
• Straining when trying to go to the bathroom.
• Feeling like you cannot completely empty the bowels. This can be associated with constipation, which may come while you’re dealing with tenesmus.
• Anxiety and distress over dealing with tenesmus, including reduced quality of life, trouble sleeping, insecurity around others, and nervousness about when the symptoms will return.
• Depending on the cause of your tenesmus, you might also experience signs of an infection, such as a fever. If tenesmus is caused by cancer affecting the colon/rectum, then it’s also possible to have blood in your stools.

Tenesmus Causes & Risk Factors

The most common reason that people experience tenesmus is due to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It’s believed that tenesmus affects people with ulcerative colitis (UC) more often than those with Crohn’s disease because of how UC causes rectal hypersensitivity, although both conditions can cause tenesmus.

Aside from IBD, other tenesmus causes can include:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Anxiety.
• A colonoscopy or surgery that affects the bowels.
• Infections that affect the gut/digestive system, which rarely can include sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, that may lead to pelvic inflammation. (4)
• Motility disorders that affect movement of the intestines.
• Pregnancy and sometimes PMS or PMDD.
• Radiation of the rectum or colon (called radiation proctitis or colitis).
• Anorectal abscess, a painful condition that causes pus to develop near the anus.
• Colon cancer, colorectal cancer or tumors.

What exactly causes the constant urge to poop? The underlying reason that tenesmus occurs is due to inflammation of the bowel. The bowel is considered the part of the alimentary canal in the digestive system that is located below the stomach, including the small intestine, large intestine/colon and rectum.

Dysfunction of the rectum usually seems to be involved in development of tenesmus. The small nerves and muscles in the rectum can start to cramp and spasm, leading to the urgent sensation of needing to use the bathroom. Some patients are told they have “rectal hypersensitivity,” especially those with IBS, which a term that describes faulty signals being sent between the bowels and brain. One study found that 64 percent of IBS patients experienced rectal hypersensitivity, especially “alternating IBS patients” (constipation and diarrhea) but less commonly those with constipation-predominant IBS. (5)

Can stress cause tenesmus? Severe stress may trigger tenesmus in people who are susceptible to digestive issues, such as those with IBD or IBS. However, normal amounts of everyday stress alone should not cause tenesmus. The reason stress impacts digestion so much is because the gut is closely connected to the brain. The two actually communicate constantly via a large nerve called the vagus nerve, which sends signals from your central nervous system (brain and spine) to your gastrointestinal (GI) system (6). In response to stress, your GI system is capable of producing, or not producing, certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which have important implications for how you feel.

Risk factors for developing tenesmus include:

• Untreated food sensitivities and allergies (especially to things like dairy, gluten and other FODMAP foods, which contain certain carbohydrates).
• Eating a poor diet that can increase inflammation.
• Chronic stress or temporary high amounts of emotional or physical stress.
• Having a family history of IBD or IBS.
• Sedentary lifestyle with little or no exercise.
• Low immune function, which can increase risk for infections.
• Personal or family history of colon or rectal cancer. Smoking, drug use and alcoholism can all increase the risk for these cancers.
• Older age, which can cause a range of digestive issues.
• Use of certain medications that interfere with digestive health.
• History of untreated sexually transmitted diseases.
• Other sources of stress like traveling, illness, and lack of sleep.
• Changes in sleep routine and circadian rhythm.
• Hormonal imbalances or changes (menstruation, menopause or pregnancy might bring on symptoms).

Conventional Treatments for Tenesmus

If you visit your doctor for help with resolving tenemus, he or she will most likely ask about your symptoms, history of gastrointestinal disorders, and perform a rectal exam. Other tests might also be needed to identify the underlying cause of tenesmus. These tests can include: colonoscopy to look at the colon and rectum, blood test, CT scan and stool culture test.

What type of tenesmus treatment medications are available?

• Anti-inflammatory agents and/or immunomodulators.
• Antispasmodics, which are smooth muscle relaxers.
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are sometimes used to manage tenesmus symptoms associated with stress, anxiety or IBS. Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and agents that modulate chloride channels and serotonin are also prescribed. Unfortunately, these drugs commonly cause side effects, which can potentially include dry mouth, dry eyes, weight gain, sedation, urinary retention and visual changes.
• Anticholinergics, which are usually taken before meals if this is when symptoms usually start.
• Anticonvulsants, which are used to treat chronic pain.
• Use of antibiotics and probiotics (“good bacteria” that colonize the gut) if an infection is present.
• If tenesmus causes pain and cramping, your doctor might recommend you take ibuprofen or another over-the-counter pain killer.
• Pain killers, including strong medications like methadone, which can be used to treat tenesmus in some cases. These tend be a last report option in patients with advanced stage cancer who are experiencing ongoing pain that doesn’t resolve with other treatment. (7)
• Rarely, endoscopic and surgical therapy is needed.

It can be difficult to treat tenesmus in patients with advanced cancer, which is very distressing. Surgery, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy do not usually help resolve tenesmus and might even make it worse. (8) Cancer patients with tenesmus can sometimes find some relief by taking the medications above, improving their diet and treating constipation or diarrhea.

6 Natural Treatments for Tenesmus

1. IBD/IBS Diet Plan

The journal Clinical Advances in Gastroenterology states that in patients with IBS or IBD “Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhea are the four main symptoms that can be addressed using a combination of dietary interventions and medications.” (9) One of the first steps to take if you have tenemus is to address your diet. Eating a whole foods, nutrient-dense diet is key for reducing underlying inflammation in the bowels.

• Aim to eat a healing diet that consists of eating roughly equal amounts (33 percent each) of clean protein sources, healthy fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates in the forms of tolerable fruits and vegetables.
• Eat probiotic foods, like cultured veggies (sauerkraut or kimchi), and fermented yogurt or kefir if they are tolerated well. If they don’t worsen symptoms, also have prebiotic foods including asparagus, bananas, honey, garlic and oats,
• Add enough healthy fats to your diet, like coconut oil, olive oil, butter, ghee and avocado. Avoid having lots of fat at one time, which can sometimes worsen symptoms.
• Drink bone broth daily, or use protein powder made from bone broth, which can be healing to the gut.
• Fresh herbs and spices should be added to meals, including rosemary, fennel, ginger, mint, basil and turmeric.
• Avoid processed grains, especially those containing wheat/gluten. Also consider trying a low fructose diet, since high amounts of fructose (sugar) can contribute to symptoms. Foods to limit or avoid include: added white sugar, chocolate, high fructose corn syrup, processed corn and potato products, honey, wheat products (cereals, bread, cakes, cookies), soda, fruit juices, artificial sweeteners and high fructose fruits like apples, watermelon, pears and grapes.
• Avoid dairy products until you are certain that lactose intolerance is not playing a role in your symptoms.
• Try an elimination diet in which you give up common allergens (including eggs, nuts, shellfish), spicy foods and certain FODMAP grains, veggies and fruit (such as apples, stone fruit, avocado, onions, garlic and broccoli) to test your reaction.
• Eating smaller meals will put less stress on the gastrointestinal tract, which can help reduce some symptoms.

2. Natural Diarrhea Remedies

If you experience on-and-off again diarrhea and tenesmus at the same time, there are certain things you can do to help treat diarrhea naturally.

• Prevent dehydration by drinking water throughout the day.
• Eat bananas and rice, which can help to “bind” loose stools.
• Add raw honey and ginger root to tea to soothe your stomach.
• Try having flaxseed oil, which has been shown to reduce the duration of diarrhea.
• Avoid having caffeine and alcohol (or at least limit the amount).
• Avoide eating too much unripe or overripe fruit.
• Limit greasy food that is difficult to digest properly.
• Manage stress and get enough rest.
• Skip tough/intense workouts until you are feeling better.
• Talk to your doctor if you take medications that cause diarrhea such as antacids, antibiotics, quinidine, lactulose and colchicine.

3. Natural Constipation Remedies

Constipation and tenesmus commonly occur together because being constipated makes you feel like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels and need to try again. Constipation can also lead to straining and cramping, two symptoms that usually occur with tenesmus.

There are a number of natural laxatives that can also help prevent and treat constipation. Tenesmus home remedies that can help break the constipation-tenesmus cycle include:

• High fiber foods, which can help to add bulk to the stool, making it easier to have regular bowel movements. These include: cooked veggies, fruits (including prunes or figs), seeds like flax or chia, nuts, and cooked starchy veggies. However, keep in mind that in people with IBS who often have diarrhea and symptoms of bloating, fiber may make symptoms worse. For these people, reducing fiber intake may improve symptoms, so it can take some trial and error to find the right amount of fiber that works best for you.
• Drink plenty of water, which helps fiber do its job. You can also add apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice to water, which can be stimulating. Fresh vegetable juices and coconut water are other hydrating drinks that may help with digestion.
• Use peppermint oil, whether topically or taken internally with water. This has a soothing effect on the stomach and often helps with IBS symptoms.
• Try magnesium supplements or magnesium oil, which helps to prevent muscle spasms and also lubricates stools so they are easier to pass.
• Drink aloe vera juice (half cup three times daily), which helps naturally reduce constipation by acting as a lubricant.
• Eat smaller, balanced meals throughout the day, rather than two to three large meals. Try to keep meal times consistent to help get your body more regular.
• Herbs including slippery elm, licorice root and ginger can all help soothe intestinal inflammation and indigestion.

If you have hemorrhoids or bloody stools, cleanse yourself only with natural soaps that don’t contain harsh chemicals, alcohol or perfumes. Use plain water to wipe yourself and then dry your bottom afterward. You may also want to try making a homemade Hemorrhoid Cream with Turmeric & Tea Tree Oil to soothe irritation.

4. Managing Stress

• Try meditating, prayer, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and keeping a journal to track your feelings.
• See a therapist or counselor if you’re dealing with chronic stress or trauma.
• Spend more time outdoors each day and get exposure to natural sunlight.
• Find a support group, spiritual center or another group to join that helps you feel more connected to others.
• Get enough sleep every day, ideally around seven to nine hours. Sleep in a dark, cool room that is comfortable and free from distractions. Try to go to sleep and wake at roughly the same each day, which helps regulate your body’s “internal clock.”
• Use relaxing essential oils to help lower stress while also fighting inflammation, including ginger, peppermint, lavender and fennel essential oil.
• Another important step for reducing physical oxidative stress is quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and limiting caffeine/stimulant use.

5. Exercise

Exercise is a natural way to reduce inflammation and also helps to get the bowels moving. A 2011 study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that increased physical activity improves GI symptoms associated with IBS and improves quality of life. (10) Physical activity has been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety and stress-related conditions. Try to be active for at least 30–60 minutes per day. Exercising in the morning can be helpful for regulating bowel movements, and it’s a bonus if you can exercise outside, which also allows you to get some vitamin D.

6. Supplements

Besides those mentioned above, supplements that can help prevent IBS/IBD symptoms include: (11)

• Probiotics (50 billion to 100 billion units daily) — Probiotics help recolonize the gut with healthy bacteria.
• Digestive enzymes (two before each meal) — These can help with indigestion by regulating stomach acid and nutrient absorption.
• Omega-3 fish oil (1,000 milligrams daily) — Helps to reduce inflammation in the GI tract.
• Adaptogen herbs — Help lower the effects of stress and hormonal imbalances.
• L-glutamine powder (5 grams twice daily) — Helps repair the digestive tract, especially important for people with chronic diarrhea or leaky gut syndrome.

Precautions Regarding Tenesmus

If your tenesmus symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your quality of life, if they keep returning and if they don’t respond to treatment, then talk to your doctor right away to rule out serious underlying health conditions. If you develop any of the following symptoms, talk a medical professional right away to prevent symptoms from getting worse:

• Bloody stools.
• Intense abdominal pain.
• Signs of infection like fever, chills and body aches.
• Persistent nausea and vomiting, which may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• Ongoing loss of appetite and weight loss.

Key Points about Tenesmus

• Tenesmus is the sensation of urgently needing to evacuate the bowels even though they are already empty.
• Symptoms of tenesmus include cramping, frequent small bowel movements, constipation, pain, diarrhea and sometimes signs of an infection or illness like a fever and bloody stools.
• Underlying tenesmus causes can include: inflammatory bowel disease, IBS, infections, hormonal changes, stress, or colon/rectal cancer.

6 Natural Ways to Relieve Tenesmus Symptoms

1. Treating underlying health conditions, such as IBD
2. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet and staying hydrated
3. Treating constipation and diarrhea
4. Managing stress, sleep and exercise
5. Limiting caffeine, alcohol and smoking
6. Taking certain supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega-3s and others

Read Next: Poop: What’s Normal, What’s Not + 7 Steps to Healthy Pooping 

The post Tenesmus (What Causes the Urge to Poop? + 6 Natural Treatments) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Stomach pain is something that almost everyone feels at one time or another. People with stomach pain (also called abdominal pain) most often have muscle strain, gas pain or an upset stomach. (1) Stomach pain is a general term that covers many conditions. Here we cover many of the most common reasons you may have stomach pain, as well as a few conventional and natural strategies for dealing with it.

What Is Stomach Pain?

Stomach pain may come from a problem in the stomach or body parts related to digestion. Sometimes stomach pain after eating occurs, related to certain foods or ingesting alcohol or drugs. (2)

Stomach pain may actually come from nearby organs, such as the gallbladder, the appendix, your bowels  or the pancreas. (3)

Because stomach pain is so common, it’s important to note your symptoms and also the timing of the pain. A stomach ache may disappear in a few hours, come and go or get worse over time. If pain is severe or getting worse quickly, see your doctor.

Signs and Symptoms

Your pain may be related to one or more conditions. Here are some of the most common stomach pain symptoms: (4, 5, 6)

• Muscle strain, which you may feel as pain while sprinting or twisting the upper body or while laughing, coughing or sneezing
• Full or bloated stomach, which may be gas pain
• Indigestion, which may include a feeling such as heartburn or an acidic stomach and is also called an upset stomach

Other common symptoms related to stomach pain include:

• Nausea (feeling like you are going to vomit)
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Burping
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Less common symptoms include:

• Severe stomach pain, which may be sudden and sharp
• Pain after every meal
• Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
• Vomit with blood in it
• Stool with blood in it
• Stomach area that is hard and tender to the touch
• Pain in your chest, neck or shoulder

Causes and Risk Factors

Stomach pain may come from one or several causes. Many causes of stomach pain are simple to treat at home. The location of your abdominal pain can be a clue to what might be wrong.

Sometimes severe stomach pain requires a trip to the doctor or even a trip to the emergency room (ER). In a clinical study of ER visits for stomach pain, doctors often ruled the cause to be “nonspecific abdominal pain,” which means the cause could not be found. Another common cause of emergency visits for stomach pain is a kidney stone that blocks part of the urinary tract (called renal colic). Together, these two conditions accounted for about 60 percent of all ER visits for abdominal pain. (7)

Older people (over age 65 years) had more bile-duct blockage, gallbladder inflammation and diverticulitis — pouches that arise in the colon wall. People younger than 65 years had more appendix attacks than older people.

Some of the most common causes of stomach pain include: (8, 9)

• Indigestion
• Food poisoning
• Food allergy and celiac disease
• Gas
• Stomach flu and other infections, like Helicobacter pylori, which is related to stomach ulcers

Less common causes include: (10)

• Stomach ulcer
• Stomach inflammation (gastritis) — a gnawing or burning feeling that could become better or worse when eating. The inflammation and symptoms caused by gastritis are often from a bacterial infection that also causes most stomach ulcers over time. Using alcohol or certain pain relievers — such as aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — may cause more pain. Stomach inflammation symptoms like a recurring upset stomach, bloating, pain, hiccups and vomiting blood should not be ignored, because gastritis may lead to increased risk of stomach cancer
• Stomach cancer
• Some medicines may cause stomach pain, including antibiotics, iron supplements, some cholesterol drugs and chemotherapy

Outside of the stomach, abdominal pain is also found in specific areas. Some conditions, such as ovary pain, can be on the left or right side.

Upper stomach pain and lower stomach pain are separate because of the many different organs that could be involved in one area. The organ location also makes a difference, so we break down right-side stomach pain and left-side stomach pain. Common causes of stomach pain in different areas of the abdomen include the lists below.

Upper Stomach Pain:

• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Esophagus pain
• Bile duct pain
• Gallbladder pain, gallstones and gallbladder attack symptoms
• Kidney stones
• Pancreatic pain (left upper side)
• Heart pain (angina)
• Liver pain (hepatitis)
• Hiatal hernia, when the upper part of the stomach pushes through your diaphragm and into your chest

Lower Stomach Pain:

• Period cramps
• Egg release from ovary (ovulation)
• Pain in the uterus lining (endometriosis)
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Pregnancy in a fallopian tube instead of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)
• Cramps during pregnancy, which should be checked by your doctor if they are severe
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Pancreatitis (may also feel like more central or lower pain)
• Diverticulitis (pouches in the colon)
• Prostate pain

Right-Side Stomach Pain: (11, 12)

• Appendicitis — go to your doctor with severe pain
• Inguinal hernia — when a part of your small intestine pushes through a weak spot of your lower abdomen
• Gallstones — this may be felt as upper right side stomach pain

Left-Side Stomach Pain: (13)

• Diverticulitis – pain often in left lower side
• Crohn’s disease – pain can also be in the left and center of the stomach area
• Pancreatic pain – left, upper-side stomach pain

Risk factors for stomach pain include: (14, 15, 16)

• Too much coffee or caffeinated drinks
• Too much alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Out-of-date or contaminated food
• Eating foods you may be allergic to, such as wheat
• Eating too much fruit or carbohydrates if you have fructose intolerance, a condition where you cannot digest fructose well (fructose is a sugar often found in fruits, honey and some vegetables)
• Drinks and foods containing dairy products (if you have lactose intolerance, where you cannot digest the sugar in milk and may feel gassy or bloated)
• Processed foods, smoked or salted meats or fish, and pickled vegetables
• Stomach ulcers
• Tobacco use
• Being overweight or obese
• Certain occupations; workers in metal, coal and rubber industry have higher risk of stomach cancer
• Abdominal surgery
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease, called GERD
• Pregnancy
• Having your period
• Stress from work or life situations
• Psychological distress
• Fatigue
• High level of anxiety about your health
• Some medications
• Some illegal drugs

Conventional Treatment

Many conventional treatments are available if you have stomach pain. The key will be figuring out the source of your pain. Below are some of the conventional treatments for stomach pain by cause or primary symptom:

• Heartburn or GERD: antacid medication or a drug that reduces acid
• Constipation: fiber product that dissolves in water or laxatives
• Diarrhea: hydration and a bland diet (Note: call your doctor if the diarrhea lasts more than a few days or if your stool contains large amounts of blood or pus)
• Pain: over-the-counter painkillers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen); acetaminophen and aspirin relieve pain but not inflammation
• Fullness or bloating: medicine with simethicone in it
• Long-term indigestion: common prescription medication options include: (17)
  • proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), to reduce stomach acid
  • H-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs), to reduce stomach acid
  • Prokinetics, to help stomach empty more quickly
  • Antibiotics, if H. pylori bacteria are causing your indigestion
  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, to decrease your pain
• Vomiting: anti-vomiting drugs include Pepto-Bismol and over-the-counter antihistamines (H1 blockers), such as Dramamine
• Severe stomach cramps: antibiotics, aminosalicylates, corticosteroids or antispasmodic medications
• Period cramps: medications such as Midol, to prevent menstrual cramping

Natural Remedies

The good news about stomach pain and pain in the abdomen is that there are many natural, simple ways to try to relieve such pain. Your doctor may suggest natural treatments before prescribing drugs.

Consider these natural ways to stop or reduce pain and manage your condition:

1. Manage Abdominal Strain

The good news is that you can usually treat abdominal muscle strain by yourself. Consider these tips for preventing and also managing muscle strain if it occurs.

If you have already strained your stomach area, consider these tips to bring back to stronger muscles with less pain: (18)

• Cold therapy. Use an icepack wrapped in a towel on your injury. Leave it on for 10–15 minutes. Repeat if necessary each hour in the early days of your injury.
• Heat therapy. Heat placed over an injured area can relax you, relieve tension and bring more blood to the injury. Use a heating bad or warm compress up to 20 minutes. Repeat if necessary each hour in the early days of your injury.
• Compression. You could wear an abdominal bandage or cloth brace to put some pressure on your abdomen, guide your muscles in place and keep the region less painful as you start to move normally and heal.

To prevent abdominal strain after you have had an injury

• Think about avoiding positions that can strain your core and back. Bend your knees and hips, and lower yourself with a straight back when lifting heavy items.
• Strive for good, balanced posture when you stand and also when you sit. Try to remember to check your posture several times a day.
• Don’t sit too long in one position. Take frequent breaks and move or walk around often.
• Warm up well before starting your exercise regime or sports routines.
• Be alert when you start new exercises and use caution. If you are trying new exercises, work your way up to more intense exercise or longer exercising periods.
• Cool down after your workouts to rest your muscles. Take time between workouts to rest your muscles, especially if you are exerting yourself more than usual.
• Rest as much as you are able. Your body needs an opportunity to repair its muscles once they are strained.
• Exercise to strengthen your core area. If you strain your stomach area, don’t exercise until you feel better. Once your symptoms subside, try some curl-ups and pelvic tilts while lying on your back to strengthen the area.

2. Reduce Gas and Bloating

Because bloating and gas in the stomach are common causes of pain, it helps to be aware of ways to keep extra gas from forming in your body. Several tips are diet-related. GERD and acid reflux can also lead to trapped or unwanted gas. Consider these tips to reduce gas and bloating: (19, 20)

• Eat less at mealtime or smaller meals throughout the day if you have an upset stomach
• Cut out fried or fatty foods
• Drink fewer carbonated beverages
• Avoid too much leafy foods, especially lettuce, cabbage and broccoli
• Cut down on beans, legumes and fruits with skins, such as apples and pears
• Reduce your stress when possible
• Stop smoking
• Don’t chew gum
• Stop eating sugar-free foods with synthetic sweeteners, which may not be absorbed or digested well
• Try to stop swallowing air if that has become a habit

3. Watch What You Put Into Your Body

What you take into your body makes a big difference for your health. To help lower your chances of stomach pain, consider avoiding: (21, 22)

• Too much coffee or caffeinated drinks
• Heavy alcohol use
• Spicy foods
• Foods with natural acids, like tomatoes and oranges
• Out-of-date or contaminated food (these may cause food poisoning)
• Foods you may be allergic or sensitive to, such as wheat or nuts
• Too much fruit or too many carbohydrates if you have fructose intolerance – you cannot digest the fructose well (a sugar often found in honey, fruits and some vegetables)
• Drinks and foods containing dairy products, if you have lactose intolerance
• Processed foods and smoked or salted meats or fish, and pickled vegetables (these put some people at higher risk for stomach cancer)
• Tobacco use or smoking
• Illegal drug use
  • Cocaine can cause abdominal pain and bowel tissue decay
  • Opioid use can cause abdominal pain, acid reflux and severe constipation

Remember that some medications may cause pain as well. Ask your doctor if your medications might cause stomach pain.

For a healthy digestive system, the best thing to do is eat a balanced diet. (23) The government’s Dietary Guidelines can help guide you. Try a mix of foods that includes vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy, protein foods (legumes, fish, meats) and healthy oils. Eat them in your appropriate calorie level each day and in forms that limit saturated fats, added sugars and added salt. (24)

4. Try Herbal Remedies

Some painkillers people take to treat abdominal pain can actually hurt the stomach. Taking large or even long-term regular doses of aspirin can cause stomach bleeding. Use of NSAID drugs for pain also can cause abdominal bleeding. (25) Over time, use of acetaminophen can harm the liver. (26)

Natural remedies for indigestion and stomach pain have existed for a long time. Remember to ask your doctor before trying an herb or supplement. Herbal products may interact with your medications or be the wrong choice for you. Also, do not stop taking your prescribed medications or change how you take them without talking to your doctor first.

One study from Iran that looked at many other studies found 105 plants that could treat various upset stomach symptoms. Seven clinical studies found that an upset stomach (functional dyspepsia) could be treated effectively, for example, with: (27)

• Licorice root can reduce pain and enhance stomach mucus secretion and anti-ulcer activity (activity against the bacteria that cause ulcers, Helicobacter pylori)
• Black cumin can be used to treat nausea, gas, diarrhea and dysentery (a serious digestive infection of the intestines)
• Basil leaf can decrease acid in the stomach
• Ginger has antiulcer, antibacterial, antispasm and anti-inflammatory features
• Mastic gum can be effective against digestion disorders

Modern versions of plant-based remedies include: (28)

• Ginger ale and ginger chews
• Peppermint — mint leaves or a sniff of oil or extract
• Teas, like chamomile, peppermint or ginger root chopped and steeped
• Apple cider vinegar to calm an upset stomach, with or without honey
• Bitters (often a combination like cinnamon, fennel, mint and ginger) with a glass of tonic, club soda or ginger ale

5. Manage Your Stress

Managing stress can be a challenge. However, psychosocial stress can have an impact on abdominal pain in adolescents as well as adults. (29)

Some stress-related factors that can put you at risk for stomach pain include: (30)

• High level of anxiety about your health
• Fatigue
• Psychological stress

Common symptoms and issues that may suggest you have a “nervous stomach” include:

• Tightness, churning stomach
• Frequent flatulence (gas escape)
• Upset stomach
• Nausea or queasiness
• Rapid fullness while eating
• Increased urination or bowel movements
• “Butterflies” or a fluttering feeling in the stomach
• Emotional distress
• Smoking tobacco
• Drinking alcohol in excess

Consider trying some of the following natural tips for stress reduction:

• A nutrient-dense diet that is high in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, electrolytes, amino acids and antioxidants
• Being out in nature
• Getting out of your home and being social
• Meditation or devotional prayer
• Movement and exercise, including walking and yoga
• Keeping a journal

6. Keep Your Bowels Regular

Avoiding constipation and diarrhea are two ways you can prevent pain in the stomach region. There are many causes of both of these conditions. Constipation is often caused by caused by a low-fiber diet, not drinking enough water (dehydration) and suffering from emotional distress.

Constipation can be aided with a high-fiber diet and exercise to keep the bowels and your spirits moving well. (31) Consider eating a diet that follows these tips for managing constipation:

• Eat raw fruits (prunes (dried plums and figs are helpful), vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans and green leafy vegetables
• Drink warm liquids
• Include more water
• Leaves out processed foods, fried foods, alcohol, and caffeine drinks like coffee and tea, which can make your body lose water
• Leave out pasteurized dairy products if you have lactose intolerance
• Includes supplements, such as flaxseed oil and magnesium

These diet tips also work well for children, especially focusing on more fluids, fiber and fruits, and also probiotic foods like yogurt and milk products. (32)

Consider trying mind-body practices to relieve constipation caused by stress:

• Exercise, including rebounding on a min-trampoline, or light stretching, dancing, walking, jogging, yoga and swimming
• Stress relievers (see natural remedy section above)
• Biofeedback

Diarrhea is often caused by factors including food allergies, an infection or virus, dehydration, stress and certain medications. It is often associated with stomach flu. Diarrhea is aided with a bland and simple diet, known as the BRAT diet:

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

You can also try some of the suggestions for managing diarrhea:

• Make gentle, easy-to-digest foods like smoothies and steamed vegetables once you start to recover. If your symptoms worsen again, stop eating fruits and vegetables for a while.
• Add flaxseed oil to your diet to reduce the time it takes to stop your diarrhea.
• Try raw honey and ginger root added to herbal teas.
• Stay hydrated with water.
• Get more rest and avoid strenuous workouts.
• Try certain supplements, like probiotics and glutamine powder, to recolonize and repair your digestive tract.
• Try peppermint oil, which may be helpful and is best for people with irritable bowel syndrome.

Precautions

Go to your doctor if you have severe stomach pain and bloating that appear suddenly or along with:

• uncontrolled diarrhea
• uncontrolled vomiting
• blood in your vomit or stool
• losing consciousness
• no bowel movements for three days

Go to your doctor if you have stomach pain after eating each meal along with nausea, painful bowel movements or painful sexual intercourse.

Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat serious or long-term stomach pain. Pain in your stomach area can lead to serious illness or death without proper treatment in some cases.

Depending on what causes your pain, you may need to take drugs as prescribed by your doctor.

Not all of the suggestions in this article will be right for you. Always talk to your physician before stopping or starting any herbal remedies, new exercise routines or other major changes in diet, medication or physical activity.

Final Thoughts

• Stomach pain is a general term that may include a lot of your body parts other than the stomach. Sometimes pain you think is coming from your stomach may involve your esophagus, bowels, ovaries and period, liver, gallbladder, kidneys or other organs.
• Remember that abdominal pain often can resolve on its own or be relieved in a short time. Natural remedies abound.
• Diet is at the center of much of stomach health. What you eat, the drugs you take, and the fluids and alcohol you drink can make a big difference in your health. Sometimes, however, the cause of pain in your stomach can be from internal problems, like inflammation or tube blockage, or from stress or infection.
• Consider how long your stomach has been hurting or whether there is a come-and-go pattern to pain. Also notice if the pain is on the upper, lower, right or left side, which may be a clue to the cause of your pain.
• Severe pain always needs to be checked by a doctor. Abdominal pain can sometimes be life threatening.

Natural approaches to reduce your stomach pain may include:

1. Manage abdominal strain
2. Reduce gas and bloating
3. Watch what you put into your body
4. Try herbal remedies
5. Manage your stress
6. Keep your bowels regular

Read Next: Gastritis Symptoms: 4 Natural Treatments for This ‘Sick Tummy’ Problem

The post Stomach Pain Causes + 6 Natural Remedies to Treat Abdominal Pain appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Every year, approximately 48 million Americans get food poisoning. (1) And while most food poisoning cases cause just mild to moderate discomfort, it’s far from harmless: 128,000 people are hospitalized every year and 3,000 people die from food poisoning annually.

Protect yourself and your family by knowing the signs of food poisoning, and speed up your recovery if you come down with a case of food poisoning with these natural tips and strategies.

What Is Food Poisoning?

Food poisoning, as its name suggests, is becoming ill after eating contaminated food (even if the food doesn’t look or taste or smell like it is bad).

Also known as “foodborne illness,” it can be classified into two types: (2)

• Foodborne infection caused by eating food that has become contaminated with live bacteria.
• Foodborne intoxications caused by the toxins produced by bacteria in the food.

No matter the category you’re affected by, they all share the common signs of food poisoning.

Signs and Symptoms

Because the bacteria or the toxins from the bacteria are transported into your body via food, the symptoms of food poisoning center around the gastrointestinal system. This is why one of the most common of the signs of food poisoning is diarrhea.

Other signs of food poisoning include: (3)

• Stomach cramps
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fever
• Vomiting
• General fatigue or exhaustion

Causes and Risk Factors

The salmonella bacteria is one of the most common food poisoning causes, (4) but it’s not the only bacteria that may be lurking in your food. The five major groups of bacteria behind the majority of foodborne illnesses are: (5)

1. Salmonella and Campylobacter

If you eat a lot of eggs, meat or poultry, you’re at risk of contracting these bacteria. These bacteria live in animals’ digestive tracts, hence the higher risk associated with eating meat, poultry and eggs (especially if the food is undercooked). There are also occasional outbreaks of recalled vegetables and fruits that have been contaminated by dirty surfaces or animal feces.

2. Clostridium perfringens

You may find it in unpasteurized dairy or raw meats, as well as raw produce that has touched bare soil. Common food poisoning cases include eating meat-based soups or stews that aren’t properly refrigerated.

3. Listeria

Listeria sources include unpasteurized milk, soft cheeses made from milk that is not pasteurized, and deli meats (including cold cuts and hot dogs).

4. Staphylococcus aureus

If someone is ill with a staph infection, the bacteria may end up in food that the sick person touched. Common meals that have caused outbreaks include unrefrigerated egg salad.

5. Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Rare beef, especially ground beef products, is the primary risk for E. coli. It can spread to other foods through dirty water or unclean surfaces.

These are just a few of the most common culprits. There are hundreds more, including Vibrio vulnificus and hepatitis A.

Additional Risk Factors

Besides eating or touching foods that have been contaminated, lifestyle and demographic details can also pose extra risks. (6) These include:

• Children under the age of 5. Their immune system hasn’t developed enough to withstand foodborne illnesses.
• Adults age 65 and older. Not only are older immune systems less resilient, but older adults have a harder time recovering. Nearly 50 percent of older adults who get sick require hospitalization.
• Pregnant women. Pregnancy leaves women more vulnerable to specific bacteria. For example, a pregnant women has a 10 times higher risk of contracting listeria than a woman who is not pregnant.

How long does it take to get food poisoning after eating something?

Because there are many different bacteria that contribute to food poisoning, there’s no clear timeline or answer to the question, “How long does it take for food poisoning to hit?” However, in some cases, signs of food poisoning kick in within a few hours of eating a meal. (7)

How long does food poisoning last? What is the food poisoning timeline?

Most food poisoning goes away within 48 hours, but the signs of food poisoning can last as long as 10 days.

Diagnosis

What do you do if you think you have food poisoning?

To diagnose whether or not you’re suffering from food poisoning, your doctor will ask you detailed questions about your signs of food poisoning, when you started experiencing them, and what foods you’ve eaten recently. (8) Your doctor may then do a physical assessment to gauge how dehydrated you are (dehydration is one of the key concerns when it comes to foodborne illnesses).

If your doctor wants further confirmation, he may run a series of tests, such as checking your stool for parasites, or doing a blood test to ensure another disease or infection isn’t causing the signs of food poisoning.

Food poisoning vs. stomach flu

If you’re wondering if it’s stomach flu vs. food poisoning, you are not alone. It is easy to confuse the two, because stomach flu symptoms and the signs of food poisoning are very similar. However, a stomach flu (also known as a stomach bug or viral gastroenteritis) is caused by a virus, not a bacteria.

That being said, in terms of stomach flu vs. food poisoning, the stomach bug symptoms, treatment and timeline are largely the same as those for signs of food poisoning. Thus, the distinction for most people becomes blurred. (9)

Conventional Treatment

Most of the time cases of food poisoning resolve themselves on their own. The goal of most conventional treatments is to simply keep dehydration at bay. (10) Due to nausea and vomiting, many people with food poisoning lose a lot of fluids, and it’s the resulting dehydration that presents additional health concerns. Your doctor will likely suggest rest and increased fluid intake through soups, broths, juices and water.

In more extreme cases, especially if side effects kick in like a very high food poisoning fever or additional infections, your doctor may prescribe food poisoning medicine like antibiotics. (11) However, absent of these, most cases of foodborne illness are allowed to run their course while your body naturally recovers.

Natural Ways to Ease Recovery

What is the best remedy for food poisoning? Because food poisoning needs to run its course, the goal is to speed up your recovery and help to ease the symptoms while you’re experiencing them.

1. Stay Hydrated with Herbs

You have to drink a lot of fluids to ease your food poisoning recovery. Double up the health benefits with herbs infused into your water.

Try ginger, for example. It’s anti-nausea benefits are so pronounced, everyone from pregnant women (12) to those undergoing chemotherapy (13) have used it to beat the nausea. Add some fresh ginger root to hot water and enjoy. Peppermint or chamomile teas can also help hydrate you while reducing nausea and vomiting. (14)

2. Change Your Diet

When you’re experiencing the symptoms of food poisoning and fighting off the bacteria, don’t put unnecessary strain on your stomach and digestive system. These organs are already in distress, and stressing them further only makes your symptoms worse and prolongs your recovery.

Think bland, easy-to-digest foods. That means smaller meals, no fatty or spicy foods, and extra starches.

3. Relax Your Muscles

Muscle relaxation can help with everything from nausea to cramping, and by relaxing your body, you can enter into a deeper state of rest in which your body can recover more effectively.

One technique used to combat nausea, for example, is progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). (15) It involves bringing your awareness to your different muscle groups and consciously tensing and then relaxing them. (16)

Other methods to relax your muscles, and potentially ease cramps and nausea related to being sick, include slow stretching, deep breathing and meditation.

4. Freshen the Air with Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is about awakening the senses and evoking certain feelings through the power of scent. For centuries, essential oils have been used to treat everything from headaches to dizziness. Depending on your food poisoning symptoms, you may want to consider it.

For example, peppermint oil may help to reduce nausea and rosemary oil may help to reduce the fatigue that comes with being sick. 

5. Focus on Electrolytes

When you’re losing more fluids than you’re taking in — like many people do when suffering from a foodborne illness — then you’re at risk of an electrolyte depletion.

Electrolytes are compounds that help conduct the electrical impulses your body needs to send signals through your nervous system to contract muscles, etc. Common electrolytes include calcium, sodium (salt), potassium and magnesium. By increasing your electrolytes, you enhance your hydration because these electrolytes help your body’s cells balance water. (17)

Natural ways to do this include: (18)

• Sipping coconut water
• Adding a pinch of salt to your drink
• Drizzling honey into your tea

Prevention

It’s estimated that up to 85 percent of food poisoning cases could be prevented with proper food handling, cleaning, washing and general food safety. (19) If you want to avoid the nasty symptoms of a foodborne illness, cleanliness should be first on your list.

1. Keep Things Clean

The bacteria that cause food poisoning can survive on kitchen surfaces long after you’ve put the food away and can easily be transferred by dirty hands or utensils.

Before prepping food, or after touching potentially contaminated food like raw meat, wash your hands. For the best results, wash your hands for 20 seconds or longer. (20)

Don’t forget food preparation surfaces, either. Use hot, soapy water and regularly wash your counters, cooking utensils, knives, cutting boards, and anything else that comes in contact with your food.

2. Keep Things Separate

Not all foods carry the same risks for foodborne illnesses. Avoid cross-contaminating your food by keeping raw meat away from produce and ready-to-eat foods. (21)

This extends to your fridge: Leftovers, produce and other containers should be kept far away from any trays or containers containing raw eggs or meat.

Finally, use separate knives, pans, cutting boards and other utensils that are reserved just for raw meats. To remember this rule, some people find it helpful to use red cutting boards for meats and green cutting boards for produce and other foods.

3. Keep Things Hot

Many of the different bacteria that cause food poisoning die at a certain temperature. (22) The goal is to cook specific foods to a heating point at which the bacteria they’re more likely to be contaminated with will die. This includes:

• 145 F for whole cuts of beef, pork, etc.
• 160 F for ground meats.
• 165 F for all poultry.
• 165 F for leftovers.
• 145 F for fish.

4. Keep Things Cold

Bacteria that can cause food poisoning start to contaminate and spread through cooked food within two hours. (23) Refrigeration chills your food down to a temperature that’s less welcoming to bacteria. Always pack up and put away leftovers as soon as you’re done eating, and if food has been left on the counter for too long, toss it.

5. Switch Your Ingredients

Some foods are a much higher risk than other foods for carrying bacteria that can make you sick. Consider cutting down or eliminating poultry and red meat. For example, nearly all raw poultry has bacteria that could make you sick. (24)

By reducing or eliminating how much meat you have in your home, you dramatically reduce your exposure to potential risks.

Related: 2019 Tuna Recall: What You Need to Know to Stay Protected

Precautions

There’s no such thing as, “It’s just a stomach bug.” Pay close attention to your symptoms if you come down with a case of suspected food poisoning, and ensure you’re drinking a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration.

You should talk to your doctor immediately if your symptoms progress to a more severe state, including:

• A fever of 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher (which can prompt other symptoms, like feeling dizzy or having blurred vision)
• Signs of dehydration, such as feeling dizzy or not being able to urinate very much
• Diarrhea that goes for longer than three days
• Blood in your diarrhea or stools

While most cases of food poisoning resolve themselves, some people do require hospitalization, and thousands of people die every year. Don’t take the risks lightly. If at any point you’re concerned or have questions about what you’re experiencing, seek a medical professional’s advice immediately.

Final Thoughts

If you’re one of the 48 million Americans who fall ill to food poisoning every year, here’s what you need to know:

• It’s caused by many different bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli.
• It can be classified as an infection (you’re sick from eating the bacteria in your food) or an intoxication (you’re sick from eating the toxins produced by bacteria in your food).
• Signs and symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, a fever and fatigue.
• Your doctor may diagnose it through an exam and detailed questions about your recent food choices.
• Most cases must simply run their course, with antibiotics rarely being used as a food poisoning treatment.

Some people require hospitalization, but if your doctor says you can recover at home, some food poisoning remedies can help ease the symptoms and enhance your health as you recover.

6 Natural Ways to Help Ease Food Poisoning Recovery

1. Stay hydrated with herbs that fight nausea, such as ginger or peppermint tea.
2. Eat a gentle diet, including smaller meals and no extra fat or spices.
3. Relax your muscles to ease cramping and nausea.
4. Freshen the air with aromatherapy. Peppermint oil may reduce nausea and rosemary may fight fatigue.
5. Boost your electrolyte intake to improve your hydration.
6. Practice proper food safety to prevent a recurrence of the food poisoning. This includes washing your hands and kitchen surfaces, avoiding cross-contamination between meats and other foods, cooking meats to the right temperature, chilling leftovers immediately, and cutting back on your intake of meat.

The post Signs of Food Poisoning (+ 5 Food Safety Tips) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

According to a clinical review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects between 7 percent to 21 percent of the general population. (1) The amount of people who now struggle with some form of IBS is estimated to be a shocking 60 million people in the U.S. alone (roughly 20 percent of all Americans).

If you want to overcome digestive symptoms that may include diarrhea, constipation, bloating and gas, then following an IBS diet and adhering to an IBS treatment plan is essential. Many randomized clinical trials have found that dietary, lifestyle, medical and behavioral interventions can be very effective at managing IBS symptoms.

What should you eat if you have IBS? As you’ll much more about below, an IBS diet plan includes a variety of unprocessed, whole foods that provide fiber, vitamins and minerals — such as vegetables, fruits, clean proteins and bone broth. Avoiding inflammatory and FODMAP foods, using certain supplements, exercising, and managing stress can also play an important role in IBS treatment.

What Is IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common disorder that affects digestion, especially by interfering with normal functions of the large intestine. IBS is not a single disease but rather a “symptom cluster resulting from diverse pathologies.” This means that each person with IBS can struggle with different symptoms and have their own unique triggers.

What are symptoms of an IBS flare up? IBS symptoms can include: (2)

• Bloating and gas
• Cramping and abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation, or both
• Changes in poop color and appearance, including having loose stools or mucus in stools

There are many different causes of IBS, ranging from food intolerances to stress. Experts believe that factors that contribute to the development of IBS include: alterations in the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut syndrome), impaired gut-immune function, problems with motility, gut-brain interactions and psychological disturbances. Some common underlying causes and triggers of IBS can include: (3)

• Eating a highly-processed, usually low fiber diet
• Food allergies or intolerances/sensitivies
• Stress
• Inflammation and free radical damage/oxidative stress that can damage the intestines
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Leaky gut
• Use of certain medications that can cause constipation or diarrhea
• And poor lifestyle choices such as drug use, smoking, and high caffeine and alcohol consumption
• SIBO, gastroenteritis, or infections of the digestive system
• Hormonal changes, such as menopause or shifts during the menstrual cycle
• Dehydration
• Sedentary lifestyle

You’re more likely to have IBS if you’re under the age of 50, you’re female, other people in your family have had IBS, or if you suffer from stress and mood-related issues like anxiety and depression.

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are generally more severe than IBS and also more difficult to treat. IBD tends to cause severe symptoms such as frequent diarrhea, bloody stools, malabsorption of nutrients and ulceration of the digestive tract. This illness can often be related to a number of other health conditions, including ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and leaky gut syndrome.

IBS Treatment

To diagnose someone with IBS, first other conditions must be ruled out. Tests that can aid in diagnosis include blood cell count, C-reactive protein or fecal calprotectin, testing for celiac disease and colorectal cancer screening in older adults.

If it’s clear that the patient is not suffering from an autoimmune condition, cancer or an allergy — which can cause symptoms that mimic those of IBS — then it will probably be concluded that the patient has IBS. IBS will not be diagnosed if certain serious symptoms are being experienced, such as unexplained weight loss, gastrointestinal blood loss or unexplained iron-deficiency anemia.

In order to be diagnosed with IBS, the following criteria must be met: (4)

1. Onset of symptoms at least six months before diagnosis
2. Recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort for more than three days per month during the previous three months
3. Having at least two of the following features
   • Improvement of symptoms following a bowel movement
   • Association with a change in stool frequency
   • Association with a change in stool form

There are several types of IBS, which are categorized according to the predominant symptom that’s being experienced. The different types include:

• IBS with predominately diarrhea
• IBS with predominately constipation
• or mixed IBS, in which both occur

IBS treatment is typically tailored to each individual’s needs, depending on the underlying causes of the condition (food allergies/intolerances, chronic stress, low motility, etc.).  Treatment usually involves dietary changes and sometimes the use of medication and/or counseling.

If emotional/psychological stress is believed to be a major contributing factor, then stress-relieving activities may be recommended like: psychotherapy, biofeedback training to learn how to relax certain muscles, deep breathing and progressive relaxation exercises, and meditation/mindfulness training.

Lifestyle and dietary changes are typically first line treatments for IBS. If these are not helpful enough, some doctors may prescribe medications to control symptoms. Examples of medications that be used to treat IBS include: (5)

• Anti-diarrhea medications
• Gut antispasmodics
• Anticholinergic medications such as dicyclomine (Bentyl) to relieve painful bowel spasms
• Stool softeners or laxatives
• Fiber supplements
• Nerve pain medications
• Antibiotics such as rifaximin (Xifaxan) to treat infections
• Antidepressants to reduce stress-related GI issues
• Dietary supplements to treat nutrient deficiencies

The IBS Diet Plan

IBS Diet Food List:

What are the best foods to eat when you have irritable bowel syndrome? Here are the top IBS diet foods that are recommended, considering they are unprocessed and easy to breakdown:

• Homemade bone broth – Bone broth will provide your body with proline and glycine that makeup collagen and which can help repair intestinal permeability.
• Raw cultured dairy – Probiotic foods like kefir, amasai and yogurt can help heal the gut and balance your microflora. Also, when buying dairy, look for raw, organic goat milk products or dairy that doesn’t contain A1 casein.
• Clean lean protein – Protein deficiency is common in people with bowel disease, therefore try to eat at least 3–4 ounces of protein per meal.
• Fresh vegetable juice – As long as the vegetable juice does not worsen the diarrhea, vegetables can help provide critical electrolytes.
• Steamed vegetables – Non-starchy vegetables that are cooked or steamed are easy to digest and are an essential part of the IBS diet.
• Healthy fats – Consuming healthy fats in moderation like egg yolks, salmon, avocados, ghee and coconut oil are easy on the gut and promote healing.
• Fruit – Consuming fruit in moderation, about one serving early in the day, is usually okay for those who struggle with IBS.  If IBS is severe, you may want to try steaming apples and pears to make homemade apple sauce.

What can you drink if you have irritable bowel syndrome? First and foremost, prioritize drinking enough water. Hydration is critical to keep the digestive system lubricated and healthy, so try to drink about eight ounces of fluids every two hours, or even more if you’re thirsty. Avoid having too much caffeine (or any), since caffeine can stimulate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea or cramping.

IBS Trigger Foods to Avoid:

• Conventional dairy – Pasteurized dairy can be hard to digest and can make digestive symptoms worse.
• Gluten – A gluten-free diet can help improve the symptoms of bowel disease. If you suspect gluten contributes to your symptoms, avoid all foods made with or containing wheat, barley and rye grains.
• Grains (if you can’t tolerate them) – Any type of whole grain will contain phytic acid and starch which can irritate the intestinal lining causing gut issues.
• Sugar and refined flour – Bacteria love to eat sugar and sugar reduces immune system functioning.
• Any potential allergen – Diarrhea can result from food allergies; common culprits include gluten, nuts, shellfish and dairy.
• Spicy foods – Hot and spicy foods may can cause heartburn/acid reflux and IBS symptoms to become worse.
• Foods that cause gas — Carbonated and alcoholic beverages, caffeine, raw fruit, dairy and certain vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower may make gas worse.

Low FODMAPs for IBS:

What is a FODMAP food, and how does a low FODMAP diet plan benefit people with IBS?

FODMAPs is an acronym for “fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols.” These are specific types of sugars — such as fructose, lactose, fructans and galactans — that are found in carbohydrate foods such as certain vegetables, fruits, grains and dairy milk. FODMAPs are short-chained carbohydrates that are fermentable and can be poorly absorbed in the gut.

For a high percentage of people with IBS, reducing consumption of FODMAPs has been shown to help take the burden off the digestive system and improve symptoms. (6) Along with a low FODMAP diet, there are several other diets that are designed to restrict food sources (primarily carbohydrates) that feed harmful bacteria in the gut.

Examples of diet plans that have been shown to help people with IBS include the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), the Gut and Psychology Syndrome Diet (Gaps Diet), and a combination of these diets (such as SCD + low FODMAP diet). (7)

Keep in mind that you may need to customize your diet depending on which IBS symptoms (diarrhea or constipation, or both) you deal with most. An IBS constipation diet will include plenty of fiber, but not too much that it worsens constipation. An IBS diarrhea diet will include lots of hydrating foods, some fiber and some “binding foods” that can bulk up stool.

When you have diarrhea, try incorporating binding foods like: bananas, rice, mashed potatoes, simply cooked chicken or meat, yogurt and oatmeal. If you’re constipated, have berries and fried fruit, vegetable juices, chia and flax seeds, cooked leafy greens, artichokes, sweet potatoes and squash.

Complementary IBS Supplements & Essential Oils:

• Probiotics (50–100 billion units daily) — Probiotics can help re-colonize the gut with healthy bacteria.
• Digestive enzymes (2 before each meal) — These enzymes will help you break down foods that you eat and facilitate nutrient absorption.
• L-glutamine powder (5 grams twice daily) — Glutamine is an amino acid that helps repair the digestive tract, which is especially important for people with chronic diarrhea.
• Aloe vera juice (1/2 cup 3 times daily)— Aloe is healing to the digestive system and can act as a natural laxative for those with constipation.
• Fish oil (1000 mg daily) — The EPA/DHA in fish oil can help reduce inflammation in the GI tract.
• Herbal remedies — Slippery elm, ginger, peppermint oil and licorice root can all help soothe intestinal inflammation.
• Psyllium husks or senna leaf tea — These can be used occasionally to treat constipation.
• Chia and flax seeds soaked in water to relieve constipation
• Essential oils for IBS — Essential oils including ginger, peppermint, lavender and fennel may be able to help reduce IBS symptoms. Add 1 drop of oil to water 3 times daily, or rub a few drops mixed with a carrier oil over your abdomen twice daily. You can also inhale the oils to relax or diffuse them in your home. Peppermint capsules are also used to soothe the digestive system.

Additionally, there are certain lifestyle changes and habits that can help manage IBS symptoms, especially exercise, getting enough sleep and stress management. If you have IBS, you may notice that times of stress and sleep deprivation will flare up your condition.

Keep stress levels low by scheduling rest during the week, fun activities, social events, and time for hobbies you enjoy. Try to get regular exercise to help keep inflammation levels low and stimulate bowel movements if constipation is an issue. Overall aim to tackle IBS with with a holistic approach that incorporates diet, lifestyle and psychological changes.

Precautions

Always visit a doctor if you start experiencing severe and unexplained symptoms, such as:

• Sudden unexplained weight loss
• Diarrhea or constipation that lasts more then several days
• Rectal bleeding
• Signs of iron deficiency anemia, including fatigue and weakness
• Unexplained vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent pain

Discuss any history of allergies you may have, any lifestyle changes you’ve recently made, and whether GI issues run in your family. Your doctor or a dietician/nutritionist may decide to put you on an elimination diet to help pinpoint which foods are most problematic. You can also talk about whether counseling, changing your medications or other interventions may be necessary.

Final Thoughts

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a very common disorder that affects digestion, especially by interfering with normal functions of the large intestine.
• IBS symptoms typically include: constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating and abdominal pains.
• Causes of IBS can include: poor quality diet, lack of fiber, stress, infections, hormonal changes, low motility, digestive issues like SIBO or food allergies, and genetics.
• The best IBS diet is one that includes whole, unprocessed foods — including enough fiber, tolerated fruits and vegetables, clean proteins, healthy fats, and water. If you have IBS, your diet needs to be customized depending on your symptoms and triggers. It’s important to remove inflammatory and allergenic foods to help your GI tract heal. You may also need to remove caffeine, alcohol, gluten, dairy, spicy foods and certain types of carbohydrates.
• Research suggests that many people suffering from IBS can benefit from following a low FODMAP diet. A low FODMAP diet plan removes certain carbohydrate foods that can ferment in the GI tract and cause bloating, gas and other symptoms.

Read Next: Top 10 Leaky Gut Supplements

The post IBS Diet Plan, Including What Foods to Avoid appeared first on Dr. Axe.

This inflammatory disease can be debilitating, and sometimes it can even lead to life-threatening complications. Ulcerative colitis may lead to a narrowed area of the intestines, making it harder to pass stool. It may also lead to swelling in the colon, intense diarrhea, joint pain, and scarring of the bile ducts and pancreas.

Ulcerative colitis most often begins gradually and can become worse over time. The symptoms of this inflammatory disease can be mild to severe, and most people have periods of remission, times when the symptoms disappear, which can last for weeks or years. While there is no known cure for ulcerative colitis, there are natural treatments that can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and result in long-term remission.

New research continues to come out with hope for a more permanent treatment for ulcerative colitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases. A 2017 study found that the protein NLRP12 regulates inflammation in the body. Analysis found low levels of NLRP12 in twins with ulcerative colitis, but not in twins without the disease. When NLRP12 was low, there were lower levels of friendly bacteria as well as high levels of harmful bacteria and inflammation. Researchers believe they could add back more of the friendly bacteria in people with inflammatory bowel diseases with reduced NLRP12 expression to reduce inflammation and restore healthy bacteria, ending the cycle and offering treatment to those with ulcerative colitis. (1)

Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of inflammation and where it occurs; they typically develop over time. Most people experience mild to moderate symptoms, but the course of ulcerative colitis may vary and some people have long periods of remission. The symptoms depend on the location of the disease-causing inflammation. If you have ulcerative colitis, you may have the following signs and symptoms:

• Diarrhea, often with blood or pus
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Rectal pain
• Rectal bleeding
• Urgency to discharge stool
• Inability to discharge stool, despite the urgency
• Weight loss
• Fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome
• Fever
• Failure to grow (in children)

Living with ulcerative colitis can lead to some serious health conditions and complications. These occurrences include:

• Severe bleeding
• A hole in the colon
• Severe dehydration
• Liver disease
• Bone loss
• Inflammation of the skin, joints and eyes
• Sores in the lining of the mouth
• An increased risk of colon cancer
• A rapidly swelling colon
• An increased risk of blood clots in veins and arteries

Causes

Diet and stress were always known to be the root causes of ulcerative colitis, but recently doctors have concluded that these factors may aggravate the inflammatory condition but do not cause it, according to the Mayo Clinic. (1b) One possible cause is an immune system malfunction. When the immune system tries to fight off an invading virus or bacterium, an abnormal immune response causes the immune system to attack the cells in the digestive tract.

Ulcerative colitis usually begins before the age of 30, but there are some cases when people did not develop the disease until after age 60. You are at a higher risk of developing ulcerative colitis if you have a close relative with the disease, such as a parent or sibling. Another major risk factor is a certain medication used to treat scarring cystic acne, called isotretinoin. In studies published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, a link between the development of ulcerative colitis and isotretinoin was established. (2)

Stress can also cause a flare-up. It’s important to avoid stress, particularly chronic stress, by exercising, stretching, and practicing relaxation techniques and breathing exercises.

Natural Treatment

Conventional ulcerative colitis treatment usually involves either drug therapy or surgery, and according to a review done at Harvard Medical School, anti-inflammatory drugs are typically the first step in treatment. (3) Two common anti-inflammatory medications that are prescribed for ulcerative colitis include aminosalicylates and corticosteroids. Although these medications can be effective in reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, they come with a number of side effects.

For instance, some aminosalicylates, including mesalamine, balsalazide and olsalazine, have been associated with kidney and pancreas problems. Corticosteroids, which are given to patients with moderate to severe symptoms, have numerous side effects, including a puffy face, excessive facial hair, night sweats, insomnia and hyperactivity. More serious side effects of this type of medication includes high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, bone fractures, cataracts, glaucoma and increased chance of infection. This is why these conventional medicines and treatments are not utilized for long periods of time.

Immunosuppressant drugs are also used to treat ulcerative colitis. These medications suppress the immune system response that starts the process of inflammation in the first place. According to a study published in Digestive Diseases, the standard treatment of ulcerative colitis is directed towards inducing and maintaining remission of symptoms and mucosal inflammation. (4)

The key factor that is used by doctors to access the most appropriate treatment is the severity and extent of inflammation. Some other conventional treatment medications include antibiotics, which are given when a patient has a fever, anti-diarrheal medications, pain relievers and iron supplements, which are needed by patients who experience chronic intestinal bleeding and may develop iron deficiency anemia. Of course, relying too much on antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.

In severe cases, surgery can eliminate ulcerative colitis, but it usually involves removing the entire colon and rectum. (5) According to a scientific review published in Surgical Treatment, the underlying rationale for surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis is that the disease is confined to the colon and rectum, and therefore proctocolectomy (rectum and colon removal) is curative.

In most cases, this involves a procedure called ileoanal anastomosis that eliminates the need to wear a bag to collect stool. In this case, a pouch is constructed at the end of the small intestine and then attached directly to the anus, allowing for the discharge of waste. In some cases, the surgeon is able to create a permanent opening in the abdomen so stool can pass through into a small bag that is attached.

To treat ulcerative colitis naturally, it’s important to understand that a healing diet is the foundation. Certain foods trigger an aggressive immune response and inflammation in the digestive tract, and these foods need to be pin-pointed and removed from your diet. Some problematic foods include dairy products, spicy foods and refined sugar. There are also beneficial foods that reduce inflammation and help with nutrient absorption, like omega-3 foods and probiotic foods.

Exercise is also an important factor in treating ulcerative colitis, since the benefits of exercise are so wide-ranging. Moderate-intensity exercise reduces stress, which is a root cause of this inflammatory disease. Exercise (especially yoga and swimming) also stimulates digestion, boosts the immune system and aids relaxation.

Relaxation is a vital element in combating ulcerative colitis because it calms the body and allows it to digest food more easily. Meditation, stretching and breathing practices can help improve circulation, regulate the digestive system, and keep the body out of fight or flight mode.

Foods to Avoid

The foods that make ulcerative colitis worse typically depend on the person and the location of inflammation. For some people, fiber is bothersome during flare-ups because high-fiber foods are harder to digest. Removing fibrous foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains, and raw fruits and vegetables from the diet is sometimes called a low-residue diet. Although this can help people with ulcerative colitis to ease pain, cramps and other symptoms, it does not get rid of inflammation.

If raw fruits and vegetables lead to discomfort, it may help to steam, bake or stew them. This makes foods in the cabbage family, such as nutrient-dense broccoli and cauliflower, easier to digest. Some other problematic products include spicy and fatty foods and caffeinated, carbonated drinks.

People with ulcerative colitis may have trouble with these foods and drinks:

• alcohol
• caffeine
• carbonated drinks
• dairy products (for people who are lactose intolerant or sensitive)
• raw fruits and vegetables
• seeds
• dried beans, peas and legumes
• dried fruits
• foods that have sulfur or sulfate
• high-fiber foods
• meat
• nuts and crunchy nut butters
• popcorn
• products that have sorbitol (like sugar-free gum and candies)
• refined sugar
• spicy foods

The Ulcerative Colitis Diet

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Studies have found that an omega-3 fatty acid called eicosapentaenoic acid (known as EPA) has the power to fight inflammation. It blocks certain chemicals in your body called leukotrienes. A benefit of fish oil is it’s a good source of EPA, and in some tests, people benefited from very high doses of it.

A 2010 case report published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine evaluated a 38-year-old woman who had ulcerative colitis and used omega-3 fatty acids as part of her treatment. (6) In 1998, at the age of 27, she went to the emergency department after 10 days of bloody diarrhea and lower abdominal cramping pain. She described up to 15 bowel motions daily with urgency, and she lost approximately six pounds. She was also clinically dehydrated.

After weeks of various treatments that only led to short-term results, the patient turned to omega-3 fatty acid treatments. The EPA and DHA doses were well-tolerated and had no side effects. Her bowel frequency slowly decreased, and within a week all rectal bleeding had resolved. The woman continued to take one gram of omega-3s and 2.4 grams of mesalazine, an anti-inflammatory medication that did not have the same reactions when given alone. The patient went into remission after adding omega-3s into her diet.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are bacteria that line your digestive tract and support your body’s ability to absorb nutrients and fight infection. Probiotics crowd out bad bacteria, yeast and fungi. They also create enzymes that destroy bad bacteria that can lead to inflammation and infections. Probiotics have the power to boost the immune system and improve digestive function.

Digestive experts agree that the balance of gut flora should be approximately 85 percent good bacteria and 15 percent bad bacteria. If this ratio gets out of balance, the condition is known as dysbiosis, which means there is an imbalance of too much of a certain type of fungus, yeast or bacteria that affects the body in a negative way. By consuming certain types of probiotics foods and supplements, you can help bring these ratios back into balance.

Probiotics work by acting as a barrier; they line the intestinal tract and prevent bacteria from stimulating an immune response. They also enhance mucus production, which protects the body from invasive bacteria. Probiotics alter the function of the mucosal immune system and make it more anti-inflammatory and less pro-inflammatory, which makes probiotic foods also excellent anti-inflammatory foods. They have the power to stimulate dendritic cells to make them slightly less responsive and slightly less reactive to bacteria, thereby reducing the inflammation that leads to ulcerative colitis symptoms.

According to a peer-review published in Gastroenterology and Hepatolgy, when probiotic treatment was compared to mesalamine treatment, a medication used to reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis patients, the two were found to be equally effective. (7) In clinical trials, probiotic benefits have proven to be effective in treating ulcerative colitis because of its ability to stimulate mucus and alter the mucosal immune system that triggers inflammation.

Top probiotic and fermented foods include kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, natto, probiotic yogurt, miso, kombucha and raw cheese. Another food that helps with ulcerative colitis is Manuka honey. In fact, Manuka honey ulcerative colitis research on rats showed it “possesses a potent antiulcer activity, which may be due to its antioxidants abilities which result in reducing lipid peroxidation and interfering with the inflammatory process.”

3. Iron-Rich Foods

A major symptom of ulcerative colitis is anemia, which occurs when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. Bleeding ulcers and bloody diarrhea can cause anemia, and to fight it you need to boost your blood iron levels.

Aside from preventing anemia, iron is a nutrient needed to maintain general well-being, energy and a healthy metabolism because it helps support overall cellular health and is involved in many enzyme functions. An iron deficiency can mean that you aren’t able to produce enough oxygen-carrying red blood cells; therefore, your body struggles to transport oxygen to your brain, tissues, muscles and cells, leaving you feeling exhausted and weak. Iron-rich foods include liver, beef, navy beans, black beans, spinach, Swiss chard and egg yolks.

4. Folate-Rich Foods

Folate is another important vitamin for people with ulcerative colitis because it helps the body make new cells, specifically by playing a role in copying and synthesizing DNA. A folate deficiency causes anemia, poor immune function and poor digestion.

According to a publication for the American Association for Cancer Research, folate supplementation may even reduce the risk of colorectal dysplasia and cancer in patients with chronic ulcerative colitis. (8) The top folate foods include chickpeas, lentils, asparagus, avocado, beets and broccoli. Keep in mind that these foods can be difficult to digest when eaten raw, so if you notice an increase in symptoms when eating these foods, try to steam or bake them.

5. Turmeric

One of the most powerful aspects of turmeric, or curcumin, is its ability to control inflammation; it’s actually one of the most effective anti-inflammatory compounds in the world! Oftentimes, people with digestive and stomach complaints become intolerant to medical interventions because the stomach flora is already compromised and drugs can literally tear up the mucosal lining.

An in-depth analysis of all the studies evaluating curcumin’s ability to manage inflammatory bowel disease found that many patients were able to stop taking their prescribed corticosteroids because their condition improved so dramatically by taking curcumin. For many patients with ulcerative colitis, taking corticosteroids reduces their pain symptoms but damages the intestinal lining over time, which actually makes the condition worse. However, supplementing with curcumin did not have these side effects, and because of its anti-inflammatory properties, actually helped heal the gut and supported the growth of good bacteria.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, powerful turmeric benefits may help people with ulcerative colitis stay in remission. In one double-blind, placebo-controlled study, people whose ulcerative colitis was in remission took either curcumin or placebo, along with conventional medical treatment, for six months. Those who took curcumin had a significantly lower relapse rate than those who took placebo. (9)

A great way to incorporate turmeric into your diet is by drinking my Turmeric Tea Recipe that I refer to as “liquid gold.” This tea recipe is sure to help heal your body from ulcerative colitis and a number of other inflammatory health conditions.

Supplements for Ulcerative Colitis

Because ulcerative colitis may interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients, it’s important that you use supplements to ensure that your body gets the vitamins and minerals that are necessary. Some supplements that may be helpful when combating the symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:

1. Calcium — improves bone strength and hormone secretion
2. Vitamin D — fights autoimmune diseases and contributes to bone health
3. Multivitamin — ensures that you are getting the necessary vitamins and minerals
4. Probiotics — provide good bacteria, reduce inflammation and minimize immune responses
5. Fish oil — fights inflammation and blocks chemical reactions

Natural Remedies

1. Keep a Food Journal

Because ulcerative colitis is triggered by a variety of foods, it’s important to evaluate which foods are problematic for you. I suggest you keep a food journal for a few weeks or months, until you understand what foods aggregate your symptoms and what foods soothe them. Write down what you eat throughout the day and how your body reacted to those foods. This will give you some insight about your own specific sensitives and intolerances.

2. Drink Plenty of Liquids

It’s common that people with ulcerative colitis become dehydrated. It’s important that you drink plenty of water throughout the day in order to protect yourself from dehydration. It’s also essential that dehydrating liquids, like alcohol and caffeine, are avoided.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has traditionally been used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in China and is increasingly applied in Western countries. A 2006 study done at the Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in Germany evaluated the efficacy of acupuncture treatment on 29 patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis. (10) As a result of 10 acupuncture sessions over a 10-week period, patients experienced a significant improvement in general well-being and quality of life.

4. Essential Oils

Using essential oils like peppermint, fennel and ginger essential oil may reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Add one drop of these essential oils to water three times daily, or rub two to three drops over the abdomen two times daily.

5. Eat Small Meals and Drink Smoothies

Because cramping is a common ulcerative colitis problem, try eating five to see small meals throughout the day. It’s easier for the digestive system to deal with smaller amounts of food, and if the digestive system is able to work with these smaller batches of food, it’s also able to absorb the nutrients that are needed. Consuming smaller amounts of food reduces pain and provides the body with a stream of vitamins and minerals.

Smoothies and meal-replacement drinks can also be a good way to get nutrition when you can’t handle solids. If you are having trouble keeping on weight, smoothies provide nutrients and calories. They also lower your chances of dehydration, as they supply a good amount of fluid. For some smoothie ideas, check out these 20 Greatest Green Smoothie Recipes.

Total Time: 2 minutes

Serves: 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bunch cilantro
• 1 cucumber, cut into pieces
• 1 lime, juiced
• ½ finger length ginger
• 5 little pieces pineapple
• 1 large tomato cut into slices

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix all ingredients in blender until smooth

Read Next: Fecal Transplants Can Help Colitis, Candida, IBS

The post Ulcerative Colitis Diet: Foods, Supplements and Natural Remedies appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Wondering if your poop is considered “normal”? Most of us have asked ourselves this question at some point.

When you’re not regularly having normal bowel movements, or your feces is an unusual color and/or consistency, this can definitely indicate that something isn’t quite right. There are many reasons why you might not be pooping regularly or why something else may be off, such as your stool color. Maybe you ate too much spicy food, are sick with a virus, you’re dehydrated, or you possibly have a more serious underlying digestive disease or illness.

If you’re curious about whether your pooping habits are considered healthy or not, then you are already thinking along the right path. The frequency, color, shape, size and consistency of your poop can actually tell you a lot about the health of your entire body.

For example, green poop — a common health problem among children and some adults who struggle with diarrhea — can indicate that something you ate isn’t agreeing with you. Constipation may be due to a poor diet that lacks fiber, high amounts of stress, or something hormone-related like your menstrual cycle or pregnancy.

Below we’ll cover in much more detail what a normal poop should look like, about how often you should be pooping, as well as what the smell and color of your stool can tell you.

What Is a Normal Poop?

Poop (feces) is defined as waste matter that is discharged/excreted from the bowels after food has been digested. In simplest terms, poop is the body’s natural way of expelling the leftover waste and toxins that it doesn’t need once it’s absorbed all of the usable nutrients you consume from the foods you eat. Defecation is another term for pooping, which means the discharge of feces from the body.

The process of digestion — eating a food, the food traveling through your stomach and intestines, it making its way down to your colon and anal canal, and then you pooping the digested waste out — involves many different aspects of your body. For example, digestive enzymes, hormones, blood flow, muscle contractions and more are all involved in the pooping process. So when just one of these is off, your digestion really suffers — and that shows up in your poop.

How many times per day should I poop?

Going too often or not often enough is not considered normal. Having trouble going to the bathroom more than a few times a week, or going too many times per day (more than three), is considered by most experts to be a sign of abnormal bowel movements.

The amount of bowel movements a day that someone should have varies from person to person, so there is not one specific number that is considered completely “normal”; however, most experts agree that it’s important to go to the bathroom at least three or more times per week at a minimum. Any less than this indicates that you are constipated. (1)

Generally, going once or twice a day is considered normal. Going every other day is also somewhat normal, as long as you feel comfortable and are not experiencing pain in your abdomen. It may be normal for one person to poop two times per day, and for another person to poop just once every other day. Above all else, you want to make sure things are pretty consistent from day to day; this shows you what is “normal” poop for your own body and clues you in to when something internally is off.

What should my poop look like?

When you do go to the bathroom, it’s ideal to have a poop that is all connected in one long, smooth “S” shape. Poops like this develop when you’re eating enough fiber and drinking plenty of water or other hydrating liquids which lubricates your bowels.

However, a smooth poop that is thin or broken up into a few smaller poops is not something to be concerned about according to digestive experts, as long as this is “normal” for you and does not cause you any discomfort.

In terms of color, the color of a normal poop should be a medium to dark brown. Sometimes you may have green poop if you consume green foods, such as lots of leafy green vegetables, and this is considered normal.

You may have heard of the The Bristol Stool Chart in the past, which was designed in the 1990s to be a medical aid that classifies poop into one of seven categories. When physicians meet with patients and discuss their digestive health, they can use the Bristol chart to locate the patient’s typical poop and learn what may be causing a problem.

The idea behind designing the scale was to classify how poop looks depending on the time that it takes for the poop to form in the colon, or the poop’s “transit time.” If a poop is considered abnormal, it usually falls into categories 1–2 (which are signs of constipation and poop being held too long in the body) or categories 6–7 (which are signs of diarrhea and the poop moving too quickly through the body).

According to The Bristol Stool Chart, the seven types of stool are: (2)

• Type 1: Separate hard lumps, like nuts (hard to pass)
• Type 2: Sausage-shaped, but lumpy
• Type 3: Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface
• Type 4: Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft
• Type 5: Soft blobs with clear cut edges (passed easily)
• Type 6: Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool
• Type 7: Watery, no solid pieces, entirely liquid

Types 1–2: Indicates constipation. (3)

Types 3–5: Considered to be ideal (especially 4), normal poops.

Type 6–7: Considered abnormal and indicates diarrhea.

How long should a normal poop take?

A healthy poop doesn’t cause pain, break up into multiple little pieces, or take a very long time and lots of pushing to come out. It should feel pretty easy to produce a poop, and you should feel like you’ve emptied your intestines once you’re done going. The whole process should not take more than several minutes for most people, or ideally even shorter. In fact, one recent study found evidence that most mammals, regardless of their size, produce bowel movements in about 12 seconds (give or take about 7 seconds)! (4)

It’s not normal to experience lots of straining, pressure and pain while passing a bowel movement. Poop should not cause too much pressure or burning, cause you to bleed, or require a lot of pushing and effort on your part. If you have to push very hard to poop and notice blood, you are likely experiencing hemorrhoids. While these are usually not very serious and do not require medical attention, they can be painful.

You also shouldn’t experience too many changes in your poop’s consistency and how long it takes you to go. If your poop is either overly watery or very hard and difficult to push out, this is a sign that things are not going well in your digestive tract. Diarrhea produces overly soft or watery poops and can be dangerous if it persists because it dehydrates and weakens the body. It might also cause your poop to be green.

What does it mean when your stomach hurts and your poop is green? The causes of diarrhea and green poop vary, but often the reasons are dehydration, a viral stomach flu or infection, as a result of eating something with harmful parasites or bacteria, or even nerves (more on green poop can be found below).

Diarrhea and the sudden urge to poop can also be caused by certain medications or medical conditions, such as:

• gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (a gluten allergy)
• lactose intolerance (a dairy food allergy)
• inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
• leaky gut syndrome

This is why its very important to see a physician if you experience diarrhea on an ongoing basis.

Constipation on the other hand is categorized by infrequent, usually painful poops that are caused by slow colonic transit or dysfunction in the pelvic floor. (6) Many people experience ongoing chronic constipation — in fact, this is one of the most reported problems at doctor’s visits every year.

Constipation can also be accompanied by other digestive symptoms like flatulence (gas), abdominal pain, stomach bloating and loss of appetite. It can be caused by many different factors depending on the individual, which we will go over in more detail in the next section.

How bad is it to hold in your poop?

Because you might not have access to a bathroom 24/7, or feel comfortable pooping in certain places, you might need to hold in your poop from time to time. Doing this occasionally isn’t a big deal, but you don’t want to make a habit of it.

Holding in your poop can put added pressure on your bowels and colon, potentially even leading them to change shape slightly if you do this often enough. It may also contribute to constipation and straining when you do finally poop because it causes your stools to further bulk up.

Over time, if you regularly ignore your urge to poop, you might stop responding to the urge as well. The muscles that control your bowels may stop working properly, leading to more constipation. Try to honor your body and poop when you need to, avoiding holding it in for more then several minutes if possible.

Poop Color, Poop Smell & What It Means for Your Health

Facts About Poop Color:

Stool color is determined by what you eat and the amount of bile enzymes you produce. Bile is a yellow-green fluid that mostly helps you digest fats in your diet. It can change the color of your poop during the digestive process due to how enzymes impact pigments in your stool. (7)

As mentioned above, the color of a normal poop should usually be a medium to dark brown. However, occasionally having green poop is also common and not a problem. Experiencing poops that are black, gray, yellow, white or red in color can be a sign that something deeper is wrong. If you have green poop along with other symptoms like stomach aches and diarrhea, this is also problematic.

• Green poop can sometimes be a common problem among both children and, to a lesser extent, adults. Why is your poop green, and what health problems can cause green poop? If you haven’t recently eaten anything green, green-colored poops might mean that food is making its way through your digestive tract very quickly, which can be a sign that you are starting to experience diarrhea or have not been consuming enough fiber to slow the transition down within your digestive tract.
• What foods can give you green poop? These include green leafy vegetables like spinach or kale, vegetables juices, blueberries, pistachios, green food powders, foods that contain green food coloring, and also sometimes iron supplements.
• In infants, the color and consistency of stool in differs according to the type of formula they are given, or if they are breast-fed. Babies fed formula may also deal with harder stools/more constipation compared to breast-fed babies. (8) When babies start eating solid foods, certain veggies or fruits might cause green poop in babies.

Other than green poops, there are also other reasons you might develop abnormal stool colors. For example, you may have blood in your stool or mucus in your poop.

• Black poops usually a sign that you may be internally bleeding, so if this persists for more than 2–3 poops, you will want to consult a physician.
• Red or purple poop can be somewhat common if you eat a lot of deeply colored vegetables like beets, but if you experience colors like this that you cannot associate with any food you recently ate, you will want to keep an eye on how many days it lasts and possibly see a doctor.
• Blood in stool can result in black poop or bright red blood in poop, which may be a symptom of bleeding from the anus (also called rectal bleeding). Blood in stool is also referred to medically as hematochezia, which can be caused by: bleeding stomach ulcers, blood supply being cut off to part of the intestines, gastritis, anal fissures, bowel ischemia, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids (often the cause of bright red blood), infection in the intestines, inflammatory bowel diseases, and polyps or cancer in the colon or small intestine. (9)
• Poop that is grayish or yellow in color is normally a sign that mucus is making its way into your stool. This shows that likely there is a problem with the liver or gallbladder, since the liver is responsible for producing bile that gives stool a grayish/yellow tint.
• Mucous in your stools can cause you to pass “stringy poops” that appear to contain a jelly-like substance, which is made by the body to keep the lining of your colon moist and lubricated. (10) What are some causes of mucus in poop? These can include: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and even colorectal cancer. A small amount of mucus in your poop is not a big deal or a sign of a problem, but a lot is not normal. If you notice mucus in your poop, blood, abdominal pain, and diarrhea happening at the same time, head to your doctor for an evaluation.

Facts About Poop Smell:

Although it may sound unpleasant, your poop smelling is actually not a bad thing or an indication of poor health. Poop smells because of the toxins it is helping to draw out of your body and because of the bacteria involved in the gut lining. There is not any specific poop smell that is considered “normal”; again, it’s just important to keep an eye on things being consistent and comfortable.

If you do notice a sudden change in the smell of your poop — from “not so great” to “very, very bad” — this could be a sign that something more serious is taking place within your gut. If the smell continues for several days, you may want to consult your doctor, who may recommend a colonoscopy if needed.

5 Common Causes of Abnormal Poop

1. High levels of stress

According to a report published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology,

Psychological stress is an important factor for the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) … psychological stresses have marked impact on intestinal sensitivity, motility, secretion and permeability, and the underlying mechanism has a close correlation with mucosal immune activation, alterations in central nervous system, peripheral neurons and gastrointestinal microbiota. (11)

Chronic stress makes it difficult for many people to relax their body and go to the bathroom properly. Your brain and our gut actually have a very close relationship; they communicate how you are feeling back and forth to each other, working to increase and decrease “stress hormones” depending on your moods, which play a big part in healthy digestion.

In fact, common digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are closely correlated with high levels of stress. When we are feeling stressed, our brain communicates these uneasy feelings to our digestive tract, making it very common for the gut wall to either constrict and tense up (causing constipation) or to work overtime and cramp up (causing diarrhea).

Stress can sometimes be a huge digestive obstacle to overcome, so much so that you may already eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water, but without also addressing high stress levels, you still can’t experience some digestive relief. While you may not be able to control things like a busy schedule, you can prioritize reducing your stress by making sure you get good sleep each night and by regularly exercising, both of which help to bring down stress hormones levels.

2. Diet Low in Fiber

Fiber is extremely important when it comes to healthy poops; fiber is the binding substance that gives poop its form and helps it to move through the digestive tract. There are two kinds of fiber, both of which play a role in creating healthy poops: insoluble and soluble fiber. The difference between the two is their ability to dissolve in water; soluble fiber is able to dissolve in water while insoluble fiber is not.

If you struggle with ongoing constipation, pay close attention to how much fiber you are consuming daily. Consider swapping some of the foods in your diet that lack fiber — like meat, cheese, refined carbohydrates and hydrogenated oils — for much healthier, whole foods that provide your body with a lot more benefits (you’ll find a list of these foods below).

3. Inflammatory and Autoimmune foods

Unfortunately, many people consume common inflammatory and allergen foods on a frequent basis, and these can really mess with the digestive system’s ability to produce normal poops, in addition to creating more serious conditions like leaky gut syndrome and autoimmune disease. If you’re struggling to go to the bathroom normally, try avoiding these inflammatory digestive “common culprits” that may be to blame:

• conventional dairy foods (like cows’ milk, cheeses and yogurts that are not organic or pasteurized)
• gluten (found in all wheat products, nearly all processed foods and anything containing rye and barley) that makes any digestive disorders worse
• processed soy (used in foods like soy milk, soy meat replacements, packaged veggie burgers and many processed foods) that is a high allergen and autoimmune-causing food
• high amounts of sugar, which unhealthy bacteria feeds off of in your gut
• also keep an eye on different types of nuts, grains and shellfish since these are also high allergens and difficult for some people to digest

4. Alcohol & Caffeine

Stress and caffeine can create a range of negative reactions in the digestive tract that depend on the individual person. For example, some people experience an increased need and ability to poop after having caffeine, while others have the opposite problem.

Caffeine and alcohol can also both dehydrate the colon, and as you learned, a well hydrated digestive tract is crucial for creating healthy, normal poops.

5. Hormonal Changes

Women typically report dealing with more constipation, IBS and digestive issues than men do. Experts believe there are a number of reasons that contribute to women’s digestive issues, some of which include: changes in hormones throughout the menstrual cycle (period a woman menstruates she may be more constipated due to higher progesterone levels), pregnancy, hormonal medications, feeling more stressed, and rushing or leaving too little time for a healthy bathroom routine. (13)

Anther possible contributor is societal pressure and embarrassment that prevents women from going to the bathroom in public bathrooms or at friend’s houses.

6. Underlying Illnesses

As explained above, there are many health conditions that affect stool color and cause abnormal bowel movements. While you don’t want to jump to any conclusions right away and assume the worst when your poop changes color or you’re constipated, this is definitely something to see a doctor about and not wait out for too long.

Certain changes in your bowel habits can be pointing to possible serious conditions like gallbladder or liver disease, bleeding, gut parasites and so on. Other health conditions to rule out with your doctor include: inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, food allergies, or reactions from medications/supplements.

7 Steps to Get Your Poop Back to Normal

1. Increase Your Fiber Intake

A common cause of constipation is not eating enough dietary fiber. Fiber acts like a natural laxative in many ways because it add bulks to your stool and helps sweep your intestines clean.

Adults want to make sure they consume fiber from whole food sources as often as possible (as opposed to artificially created fibers that are found in things like “high fiber” diet products and pre-made, commercially sold shakes).

It’s best to aim to get between 25–40 grams of fiber per day, with bigger individuals and men usually need an amount on the higher end of the scale. Getting this much fiber shouldn’t be too difficult if your diet is made up of real, whole foods — including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Vegetables, fruits and beans are some of the best sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which will increase your ability to properly poop. However, each person reacts to these foods differently, and some have trouble digesting certain kinds of beans and fibrous vegetables that can actually worsen the problem. So always be mindful about how you react to foods and try to zero-in on any that specifically may cause you digestive distress so you can avoid them.

Assuming these foods do not cause you to experience digestive problems, work towards adding various types of high-fiber foods to your diet as often as you can. This helps ensure you’re eating plenty of gut-loving fiber, plus getting other important nutrients for your digestive system like vitamins, minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants.

• eat all types of leafy greens (but don’t be alarmed if they wind up causing green poop)
• cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage (try steaming these to make digestion easier)
• artichokes
• peas and other types of beans (which you can also pre-soak and sprout)
• squash and potatoes
• berries, apples and pears (which can be blended as well), figs and dates
• chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds and various other nuts/seeds

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Aim to consume water every two hours at a minimum; drinking roughly eight ounces of water every couple of hours will prevent dehydration and set you up for a healthier poop the following morning.

Whenever you are eating a lot of fiber, you want to also make sure to drink plenty of water. A high amount of fiber, without enough hydrating liquids, can actually result in even more trouble going to the bathroom, unfortunately. Remember that fiber swells and expands in the digestive tract, so if it doesn’t have enough water to absorb and to move it through the gut lining, you can experience uncomfortable bloating, gas, pains and constipation.

3. Consume Probiotics

Probiotics help to create a healthy environment in your gut “micoflora.” Essentially this means that the amount of “good bacteria” in your gut is able to balance the amount of “bad bacteria,” helping you to stay free of digestive problems, including constipation or diarrhea.

Probiotic-rich foods includes kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and high-quality yogurts. Make sure that when buying dairy products, you always choose organic products as they are easier on digestion, such as goat milk products, organic kefir, raw dairy products or dairy that doesn’t contain A1 casein that can cause inflammation. You can also try supplementing with a good-quality probiotic as well.

4. Supplement with Magnesium

If you frequently deal with constipation, magnesium has the natural ability to safely soften poop. It works to draw water from your gut into the poop and helps it to easily move through your system. Magnesium is also a natural muscle relaxer, which can help to stop cramping in the gut and abdomen.

Since magnesium is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in adults, there are really no downsides to tying magnesium, as long as you stick within the recommended daily dosage carefully; if you start experiencing stools that are too loose and watery, you can adjust your intake until its comfortable and back to normal.

5. Support Your Liver

Did you know that your liver is responsible for producing the bile that digests fat? Without enough bile, your fats become something like soap in your gut!  This backs up and can lead to constipation and difficulty detoxing the body of toxins. One of the best ways to support your liver is with diet and exercise. You can also do a liver cleanse to clean everything out and get your body back to feeling its best!

6. Get Your Body Moving

Being active is a great way to get your poop cycle on a more regular schedule. Exercise stimulates the bowels and lymphatic system, which helps to push waste down to your colon, making it easier for you to go. On top of this, exercise also relaxes your mind and reduces stress, which as you now know is one of the biggest reasons for digestive troubles.

7. Manage Stress

Try natural stress relievers like meditation, prayer, exercise, using relaxing essential oils, deep breathing exercises, yoga and spending time in nature.

Final Thoughts

• Every person is different when it comes to their bathroom habits. It’s considered “normal” to poop one to three times daily, or just once every other day. Ideally poop should be one long, smooth “S” shape and not require straining or painful pushing.
• Poop color depends on what you eat, supplements you take and your production of bile. Poop should ideally be medium to dark brown, but you might have green poop occasionally if you eat green veggies, green juices or take iron supplements.
• Some reasons that you might not be pooping normally include: stress, infection, autoimmune diseases, other underlying illnesses, lack of fiber, dehydration, alcohol and caffeine.
• Ways that you can improve your pooping habits include: eating more fiber, drinking enough water, consuming probiotics, exercising, supporting your liver and managing stress.

Read Next: The Surprising Benefits of Prune Juice — Not Only Constipation Relief

The post Poop: What’s Normal, What’s NOT + 7 Steps to Healthy Pooping appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Inflammatory bowel disease is chronic inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two main diseases that fall in this category are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both of these conditions are caused by an abnormal response from your body’s immune system, where your system attacks your own tissue.

Inflammatory bowel disease shares symptoms with many other conditions, such as celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, those two diagnoses are not considered inflammatory bowel diseases.

Lifestyle strategies and natural therapies may help relieve symptoms for people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Together with conventional medicine, many people can find relief for their symptoms and even get into remission — time periods without symptoms.

What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is used to describe conditions that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract. The two main diseases that fall in this category are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: (1)

• Crohn’s disease involves inflammation throughout the digestive tract, including the large and small intestines. The damage often happens in patches rather than affecting the entire tract. However, it can impact multiple layers of tissue in the intestines.
• Ulcerative colitis impacts just the large intestine, called the colon. The damaged tissue usually affects the entire colon in a continuous stretch, causing colon pain and inflammation of the colon. In most cases it only causes inflammation in the innermost lining of the colon. It can also cause symptoms in the rectum.

Other less common diseases also fall under the umbrella term of inflammatory bowel diseases. These include: (2)

• Microscopic colitis
• Behcet’s disease
• Lymphocyte colitis
• Collagenous colitis
• Diverticulosis-associated colitis

Inflammatory bowel diseases affect about 1.6 million Americans. (3) Unfortunately, there is no cure for IBD. The condition will flare up at times and at other times have no symptoms (remission). However, with treatment, most people can keep the disease under control so that they do not develop complications.

Complications of IBD can include: (2)

• Skin, eye and joint inflammation
• Blood clots
• Medication side effects
• Colon cancer
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis (scarring of the bile ducts that causes liver damage)

Is IBD a disability?

Depending on the severity of your symptoms and the impact of the disease on your ability to work, IBD may qualify as a disability. This may mean you can get disability income from the government. For some people, this can replace income lost by not being able to work full-time or at all. However, you will need the support of your physician and it requires time and paperwork to obtain approval. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America offers a sample disability appeal letter that you can submit with the support of your doctor. (4)

Signs and Symptoms

Inflammatory bowel disease causes a wide range of symptoms. These may vary by the exact diagnosis and the severity of your disease. In general, inflammatory bowel disease symptoms include: (1, 5)

• Diarrhea for a long period of time
• Belly pain
• Cramping
• Bleeding from the rectum or blood in your stools
• Poor appetite
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Fever
• Urgency for bowel movements

For a diagnosis, physicians will look for some key IBD signs, including the location and degree of tissue inflammation. Inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis will be done through endoscopy, colonoscopy and imaging tests, such as MRI, computed tomography (CT) or contrast radiography. Together with blood tests and stool samples, these imaging tests should help you get an accurate diagnosis.

People with inflammatory bowel disease may also have other symptoms or complications specific to their disease. IBD symptoms for people with complicated Crohn’s disease can include: (5)

• Bowel obstruction (swelling that causes a blockage in the bowels, which may need surgery to fix)
• Anal fissures (a tear in the skin of the anus)
• Malnutrition
• Ulcers
• Fistulas (when an ulcer goes through the wall of the intestine)

People with ulcerative colitis may also experience complications. Some of these include: (2, 5)

• Toxic megacolon (when the colon suddenly swells and gets wider)
• Holes in the colon
• Extreme dehydration from excessive diarrhea
• Anemia
• Colon cancer
• Liver disease
• Osteoporosis

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of most inflammatory bowel disease is unknown, it is believed to be due to a problem with the immune system. This may be triggered when your body tries to fight off bacteria or a virus in the gastrointestinal tract. Something goes wrong and your immune system doesn’t stop — it keeps attacking healthy tissue.

In some cases, there is a genetic component to IBD. This means you may be more likely to develop IBD if you have certain genes or family members with the condition.

Risk factors for IBD include: (2, 3, 5)

• Age younger than 30 (you can get it at any age though)
• Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
• White race
• Having a close relative with IBD
• Smoking (it is a risk factor for Crohn’s, though it may provide some protection against ulcerative colitis)
• Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); these also make symptoms worse if you already have IBD
• Living in developed countries or in urban areas
• Living in northern climates
• Higher socioeconomic status
• Diets high in fat or refined foods may also be a risk factor

Some people theorize that IBD has become more common in developed countries due to lack of exposure to germs. However, there doesn’t appear to be any single cause to the condition.

Conventional Treatment

Inflammatory bowel disease treatment depends on the type of underlying disease you have.

Common medical treatments for IBD include: (3)

• Aminosalicylates to reduce inflammation
• Corticosteroids to calm the immune system
• Immunomodulators to keep the immune system from causing inflammation
• Antibiotics to help treat infections and abscesses
• Biologic therapies to target inflammatory proteins and reduce inflammation
• Surgery to remove intestinal blockages, fistulas or abscesses
• Surgery to remove the colon (for people with severe ulcerative colitis)

Typically, a treatment plan starts with the safest medications and works up to the most serious drugs (biologics and immunomodulators) or surgery. Many people with IBD only need to take drugs while they have “flares” — periods of active symptoms. Once the disease signs (checked by blood tests) and symptoms have faded or gone away completely (remission), many people can go off of medication, at least for a while.

Surgery does not cure Crohn’s disease. It basically cures ulcerative colitis but in most cases leaves people with a pouch to collect feces that has to be emptied regularly.

People may also take medications for symptoms. These may include: (6)

• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Dietary supplements for iron, calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients
• Acetaminophen

Natural Ways to Help Manage IBD Symptoms

Although IBD isn’t caused by diet alone, nutrition plays an important role in these diseases and their symptoms. In addition, other natural approaches can help you manage your IBD symptoms and possibly achieve remission or stay in it longer. Consider these natural ways to manage your IBD:

1. Keep a food diary

The impact of diet on the development of IBD is not totally clear. However, what you eat and drink can play an important role in your symptoms. Keeping a food diary is one way to find out what does and does not bother your gut as well as what might help your symptoms.

• Keep a digital or print food diary. (There’s an app for that, yes!) Track what you eat for every meal and snack for several weeks at least. You can either keep a small notebook with you to mark down the info throughout the day or keep it by your bed to fill out every night. Apps make it easy to track the data in your phone and may offer special report features as well.
• Track your symptoms in the diary as well. This means obvious symptoms, such as diarrhea, as well as other symptoms including: headaches, cramping, fatigue, bloating, poor mood and any other changes in how you feel. In addition, make a note of days you feel well. Knowing what you’ve eaten on good health days can be just as valuable as knowing what made you feel poorly.
• Keep track of time. Note when you eat something as well as what time you have other symptoms. This will help you trace the symptoms back to what you ate.
• Bring your diary to an expert. A dietician or health care professional familiar with IBD can help you sort through your diet and symptoms. They can use your diary to figure out what you are eating that soothes or triggers symptoms.
• Use the information to avoid triggers. You can use your diet diary to find a diet plan that works for you. Working with your dietitian or doctor can also help, since they can help you build a diet that is balanced nutritionally while still avoiding your triggers. Common triggers for IBD symptoms include:
  • Fiber, such as seeds, nuts and raw vegetables and fruits
  • Acidic foods
  • Caffeine
  • Dairy
  • High-fat foods
  • Spicy foods
  • Vegetables in the cabbage family, including cauliflower

2. Optimize your nutrition

Many people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis may end up with nutrient problems during flares or when the disease gets serious. Anemia can result from blood loss in diarrhea. Malnutrition can occur in Crohn’s disease when the gut doesn’t absorb nutrients. To help avoid nutrient deficiencies, consider these steps:

• Work with a dietitian. You can get simple blood tests to check for common nutrient deficiencies in IBD. You can also ask for suggestions of IBD-friendly foods and supplements to make sure you get enough nutrition. A nutritionist or registered dietitian may also be able to create a custom plan to help you avoid nutrient deficiencies using your food diary.
• Consider a liquid diet. Some people with severe flares may benefit from liquid diets, which make it very easy for your body to digest and obtain nutrients. They can also help ease pain and may even kick-start a period of remission for some people with Crohn’s disease. A liquid diet should be guided by a physician and nutritionist and can include either store-bought liquid meal replacements or enteral nutrition (a tube into the stomach, for example). Liquid meal replacements may not taste very good, and the diet needs to be followed for at least six weeks in most cases. However, some people have excellent results. (7)
  • In children, enteral nutrition is just as good as corticosteroids at jump-starting remission. It is also the preferred method because it is very safe and won’t impact growth. (8)
• Take supplements. Many people with IBD, particularly Crohn’s disease, have trouble digesting food properly and may have nutrient deficiencies. These can cause fatigue and even osteoporosis. The Mayo Clinic suggests multivitamin and mineral supplements may be useful after talking with your doctor. (6) Instead of a multivitamin, supplements for single nutrients may be helpful. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation suggests supplements or diets rich in the following nutrients may be helpful:
  • Iron — to help fatigue and avoid anemia from blood loss
  • Calcium — to help you avoid low bone density and weak bones caused by a lack of calcium, which can happen due to problems absorbing nutrients or when you take steroids
  • Vitamin D — this is recommended for everyone with IBD due to its possible role in reducing intestinal inflammation. It is great to take in combination with calcium to support bone health
  • Folic acid — this nutrient can be depleted by common IBD medications, and is especially important for women of childbearing age
  • Vitamins A, E and K — people with IBD may have trouble avoiding these fat-soluble vitamins
  • Vitamin B12 — this is especially important for people on a vegetarian diet or for people who have problems with the ileum, where vitamin B12 is best absorbed
  • Zinc — many people with frequent diarrhea can develop a zinc deficiency, so supplements for zinc may be very helpful
• Try ready-made diet guides. Many people with IBD have similar triggers. Some sample diets exist, such as Dr. Axe’s diet for ulcerative colitis. Tips include eating small, frequent meals, getting plenty of fluids, avoiding high-fiber foods and taking specific supplements. Always discuss diet and supplement plans with your health care professional prior to making any major changes.

3. Consider complementary supplements

In addition to supplements your doctor may recommend based on your other medications or your overall health, you may wish to ask about others. Some supplements studied for use in people with IBD include: (9)

• Green tea polyphenols — drinking green tea may reduce inflammation in the intestines, and scientists believe the research on it merits clinical trials in humans for treating IBD
• Resveratrol — studies in animals suggest resveratrol may calm the immune system’s reaction, reduce inflammation and even prevent colitis and colon cancer
• Curcumin or turmeric — early studies show it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, but more rigorous research is needed before it is considered a treatment for IBD
• Rutin — found in citrus fruits, buckwheat seeds and tea, rutin is a flavonoid that may help reduce inflammation in the colon. So far only animal studies have been done
• Fresh pineapple juice (bromelain) — early research strongly suggests that long-term intake of fresh pineapple juice can calm immune-mediated diseases and inflammation in the colon
• Pomegranate — early studies have found a promising role for pomegranate in the calming of colitis, ulcers and diarrhea
• Fish oil — omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil supplements may reduce inflammation and keep people in remission from IBD symptoms longer
• Aloe vera gel — believed to help speed wound healing and reduce inflammation, but more research is needed in IBD patients
• Wheat grass juice — drinking juice for four weeks reduced rectal bleeding and disease activity in one study with IBD patients, but showed little other impact on IBD
• Germinated barley — this may improve diarrhea symptoms
• Cinnamon extract — in early experiments with animals, cinnamon extract may fight colitis
• Freeze-dried black raspberry powder — because of its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this is being studied for IBD help
• American ginseng — very early research suggests this may reduce the risk of colon cancer-associated colitis
• Ginger extract — because of its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may be researched further in the field of IBD treatment

4. Minimize stress

The link between stress and IBD is controversial. However, many people with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis say that flare-ups are more likely to happen when they are in periods of high stress. You can help keep stress in check by:

• Exercising. This relieves stress, reduces depression and anxiety and may also help your bowel symptoms. Yoga and other gentle exercises may be a great way to combine stress relief and physical activity, but aerobic exercise programs can also have significant stress relief effects.
• Talking to someone. Talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and support groups may help you manage stress by giving you an outlet for your emotions and stresses related to your daily life or your IBD.
• Learning relaxation techniques. Breathing strategies and relaxation therapies can help you learn how to manage stressful situations by slowing your heartbeat and breathing. Biofeedback is one strategy, but you can find many ways to help manage stress on a daily basis, such as meditation, to keep your stress levels lower.

5. Consider probiotics

Probiotics may help keep a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. Early research in patients with inflammatory bowel disease suggests that probiotics may help rebalance the immune system’s response to the bacteria in the gut. Probiotics may also reduce inflammation and disease severity. (9)

Prebiotics do not have the same level of evidence yet, although some laboratory research suggests they may help reduce inflammation in IBD. (10)

6. Quit smoking

Smoking and tobacco have different effects depending on your type of inflammatory bowel disease. In Crohn’s disease, smoking makes you more likely to develop the disease. Once you have it, smoking also makes Crohn’s more severe. In ulcerative colitis, however, smoking cigarettes may actually have a protective effect, making symptoms less severe.

Even though smoking may make ulcerative colitis symptoms less severe, most physicians say it is still important to quit smoking — no matter what type of IBD you have. This is because smoking has so many other negative impacts on health, including raising your risk for heart disease and lung cancer. You can try some of Dr. Axe’s tips for quitting smoking.

7. Manage diarrhea

Some of the most common symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease are diarrhea and, at times, bleeding during bowel movements. While this may only happen during flares, it’s important to know how to manage it. Tips for managing diarrhea include:

• Know where the bathrooms are. This is a no-brainer for many people with IBD, but for people new to the diagnosis, it bears repeating. When you travel or go somewhere new, look up the location of restrooms in advance. Try using the restroom before long stretches where it may be difficult to make it to a restroom.
• Drink extra fluids. You can also follow other strategies for stopping diarrhea, making sure they don’t conflict with other diet guides for IBD.
• Find your own favorite remedies. While you are waiting for your symptoms to respond to medication, you can try using your food diary and some natural remedies to keep diarrhea in check.
• Travel wisely. Buy plane, bus or train tickets for seats near the restrooms. If you have an ostomy bag, let travel security know so that you can be treated appropriately at security checkpoints. If you are on a road trip, plan regular rest stops ahead of time and search for gas stations, fast food places or rest areas along your route.
• Consider carrying an emergency kit. If you deal with bowel urgency and have a long drive ahead of you or no access to a bathroom, it may be worth it to have a ‘back-up kit’ with you, including an extra bag, wet or medicated wipes or toilet paper, hand sanitizer, additional underwear and a ziplock bag for trash.

Precautions

• Do not try to self-diagnose or self-treat inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease can be easily confused with many other conditions, including infections, cancer, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and celiac disease. Treatment varies for each disease, so it is essential to have a correct diagnosis.
• Inflammatory bowel disease isn’t a fatal condition. However, complications of IBD can be deadly. Work with a health care professional to get appropriate treatment and stick to your follow-up care plan. Regular visits with your medical team can make sure you catch problems early. Notify your doctor if you have a major change in symptoms or a gradual but steady worsening of symptoms. You should also call your doctor if you notice some of the following warning signs of complications:
  • Heavy bleeding during or between bowel movements
  • Weakness and fatigue beyond what you feel normally
  • Extreme cramping or abdominal pain
  • Weight loss
  • Fever
  • Any worsening of your usual IBD symptoms
• In most cases, vitamin and mineral supplements are safe for people with IBD. Regardless, you should always check with your health care provider before adding or changing your supplements, since some supplements can interact with medications.
• Do not stop taking your IBD medication without first discussing the change with a health care professional. If you have side effects or wish to explore other treatment options, talk with your doctor before changing on your own.

Final Thoughts

• Inflammatory bowel disease is an umbrella term for conditions that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine (colon). It is usually milder than Crohn’s disease but can have serious complications.
• Crohn’s disease affects the entire digestive tract, including the small and large intestines, and usually causes patches of inflammation.
• There is a strong need for finding the best inflammatory bowel disease diet for you. This will depend on identifying triggers and foods that soothe your symptoms and will take trial and error.
• Inflammatory bowel disease cannot truly be cured, but many people with IBD achieve good control of the condition. Most people have long periods of good health (remission) with occasional flares of symptoms. However, medications are often required to achieve and maintain periods of good health.

7 Natural Therapies to Help IBD Symptoms Include:

1. Keeping a food diary
2. Optimizing your nutrition
3. Considering complementary supplements
4. Minimizing stress
5. Trying probiotics
6. Quitting smoking
7. Managing diarrhea

Read Next: 9 Candida Symptoms & 3 Steps to Treat Them

The post Inflammatory Bowel Disease (+ 7 Natural Ways to Help Relieve IBD Symptoms) appeared first on Dr. Axe.

Recently, researchers have started to acknowledge there’s another digestive disorder lurking: small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO. It’s more prevalent than previously believed, and it occurs in many people suffering from IBS and certain other underlying conditions. (1)

What Is SIBO?

SIBO is the acronym for “small intestinal bacterial overgrowth,” defined as excessive bacteria in the small intestine, or small bowel. While bacteria naturally occurs throughout the digestive tract, in a healthy system, the small intestine has relatively low levels of bacteria; it’s supposed to be at highest concentrations in the colon.

The small intestine is the longest section of the digestive tract. This is where the food intermingles with digestive juices, and the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. If SIBO is indicated, malabsorption of nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins and iron, can quickly become a problem.

When in proper balance, the bacteria in the colon helps digest foods and the body absorb essential nutrients. However, when bacteria invades and takes over the small intestine, it can lead to poor nutrient absorption, symptoms commonly associated with IBS, and may even lead to damage of the stomach lining.

When you have SIBO, as food passes through the small intestine, the bacterial overgrowth interferes with the healthy digestive and absorption process. The bacterium associated with SIBO actually consumes some of the foods and nutrients, leading to unpleasant SIBO symptoms, including gas, bloating and pain.

Even when treating small intestinal bacterial overgrowth with antibiotics, relapse rate is high. This is a chronic condition that can be cured, but it takes patience, perseverance and a change in diet. In fact, SIBO treatment includes a healing diet, and some foods should be avoided until the gut flora is back in balance.

Symptoms

The indications of SIBO mirror the symptoms of other gastrointestinal disorders, including IBS. According to a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, there’s good reason for the similar symptoms — there’s a definite association between IBS and SIBO. Researchers suggest that physicians give consideration of excluding SIBO before giving a definitive diagnosis of IBS. (3)

Common symptoms of SIBO and IBS include:

• Nausea
• Bloating
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Malnutrition
• Weight loss
• Joint pain
• Fatigue
• Rashes
• Acne
• Eczema
• Asthma
• Depression
• Rosacea

Causes and Risk Factors

There are a number of underlying conditions believed to contribute to small intestine bacterial overgrowth. These include aging, dysmotility (when muscles in the digestive system don’t work properly), chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, diverticulosis, a structural defect in the small intestine, injury, fistula, intestinal lymphoma and scleroderma. (4)

The use of certain medications, including immunosuppressant medications, proton pump inhibitors, immune system disorders, recent abdominal surgery and celiac disease are also associated with an increased risk for developing SIBO. Celiac disease can be of particular concern as it disturbs gut motility leading to improper small intestine functioning. (5)

According to a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, 66 percent of patients with celiac disease who maintained a strict gluten-free diet tested positive for bacterial overgrowth.

In this study, patients were treated individually with a combination of antibiotics, prescription medications for worms and parasites, and a change in diet. All patients reported their symptoms were abated after SIBO treatment. (6)

Another underlying cause of SIBO symptoms is blind loop syndrome. This occurs when the small intestine actually forms a loop, causing food to bypass parts of the digestive tract. This causes food to move more slowly through the system, and the result is a breeding ground for bacteria. (7)

Metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes that’s not properly controlled, are believed to lead or contribute to certain gastrointestinal disorders. In fact, a study published in Diabetes & Metabolism indicates that SIBO was present in 43 percent of diabetics with chronic diabetes. (8)

Aging is another risk factor for developing small intestine bacterial overgrowth. As we age, the digestive tract slows down. It’s generally accepted that non-hospitalized adults over the age of 61 have a 15 percent prevalence rate of SIBO, in contrast with just under 6 percent in individuals 24 to 59 years old. A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society also found that over 30 percent of disabled older adults have SIBO. (9)

Rosacea, a skin condition that causes redness and rashes on the face, (10) is also associated with SIBO symptoms. Researchers from the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Genoa in Italy found that rosacea patients have a significantly higher prevalence rate of SIBO.

For those who suffer with rosacea, there’s good news — this study also indicates “an almost complete regression of their cutaneous lesions and maintained this excellent result for at least 9 months” after the eradication of SIBO. (11)

As you can see, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is linked, caused or associated with a wide array of conditions. Even those not thought to be related to the gastrointestinal tract seem to correlate with SIBO symptoms.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose SIBO, doctors use a hydrogen breath test to measure the amount of gas produced by the bacteria in the small intestine. The test measures the amount of hydrogen and methane in your body. This works because the only way the human body produces these gases is through the output of bacteria.

A solution containing one of the following sugars is used to complete the breath test:

• Lactulose
• Glucose
• Xylose

First the patient participates in a special diet for two days prior to the test. Then the patient drinks a solution containing one of the sugars listed above, which feeds the bacteria. The breath test measures how much hydrogen and methane has been produced by the bacteria as a result. These results allow your health care professional to determine if you are experiencing SIBO. (12, 13)

Possible Complications

SIBO, left untreated, can cause potentially serious health complications. It’s vital to get rid of the bacterial overgrowth as soon as possible.

Bacteria overgrowth in the small intestine can lead to malnutrition, one of the biggest concerns with SIBO. Essential nutrients, protein, carbohydrates and fats aren’t properly absorbed, causing deficiencies, including iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, calcium deficiency and deficiencies in the fat-soluble vitamins — vitamin A deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, vitamin E deficiency and vitamin K deficiency.

These deficiencies can lead to symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, confusion and damage to the central nervous symptom. (14)

Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common than most people believe. There are a number of factors that can lead to deficiency, besides SIBO. Vegetarians and vegans are at particular risk, as are individuals who have inadequate stomach acid or take medications that suppress stomach acid — such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers and other antacids.(15)

As noted above, these commonly prescribed medications are linked to SIBO.

According to Harvard Medical School, the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can appear gradually — or very rapidly. Symptoms may include numbness or tingling in extremities, anemia, jaundice, decline in cognitive function, memory loss, fatigue, weakness, and even paranoia or hallucinations. (16)

In a report in the British Journal of Haematology, researchers indicate that megaloblastic anemia, a blood disorder that causes the loss of red blood cells, is directly related to bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. This is due to the malabsorption of vitamin B12. (17)

If you have SIBO or a vitamin B12 deficiency, it’s imperative to catch megaloblastic anemia quickly; prolonged vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to permanent nerve damage. (18)

If you experience any of these symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, in addition to any of the common SIBO symptoms mentioned above, take charge of your health, and get started ridding your body of small intestinal bacteria.

Treating SIBO

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is most often treated with antibiotics such as rifaximin (brand name Xifaxan). This helps reduce the problem bacteria but also kills off the healthy bacteria necessary for proper digestive functioning. For some patients with SIBO caused by blind loop syndrome, long-term antibiotic courses may be required. (19)

Even with antibiotics, SIBO is difficult to treat. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, researchers concluded SIBO patients treated with antibiotics have a high recurrence rate and that gastrointestinal symptoms increased during the recurrences. (20)

The good news is that researchers have found that herbal remedies are as effective as three courses of antibiotic therapy in patients who don’t respond well to rifaximin. (21) This study mentions a variety of herbal remedies but doesn’t include dosing or further details. Oregano oil, berberine extract, wormwood oil, lemon balm oil and Indian barberry root extract are all mentioned in the study.

So how do you treat SIBO and SIBO symptoms? First, it’s important to identify if there’s an underlying cause. The next step is to start reversing the nutritional deficiencies. A healthy diet, nutritional supplements and lifestyle changes are necessary to get the body back in balance.

My first recommendation to overcome SIBO is to consume smaller amounts of food during meals. Spread your meals out at 5–6 smaller portions per day rather than 3 larger meals. Eating smaller meals allows you to digest foods more quickly, which is crucial to overcoming SIBO. Overeating is one of the worst things for SIBO because it causes food to sit longer in the stomach and can also damage gastric juice production. Low stomach acid production is one of the main contributing factors of SIBO because stomach acid kills off bacteria in your upper GI regions.

Next, one of the key things you can do today to help get rid of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is to start probiotic supplements and eat probiotic-rich foods immediately. A pilot study from researchers at the Center for Medical Education and Clinical Research in Buenos Aires, Argentina, found probiotics have a higher efficacy rate than metronidazole for individuals with SIBO. (22)

In this study, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus faecalis and Bifidobacterium brevis were administered for five days to half of the study group, while the other half of the study group received antibiotics for five days. All participants ate the same diet, which limited consumption of dairy products, legumes, leafy green vegetables and alcohol.

The results? An astounding 82 percent of the group receiving probiotics reported clinical improvement, while only 52 percent of the group receiving antibiotics reported clinical improvement.

In addition to probiotics and combatting nutrient deficiencies, it’s important to change your diet.

The SIBO Diet

To get started ridding your small intestine of bacteria overgrowth, start with a FODMAP elimination diet for two weeks. What are FODMAPS? They’re foods that aren’t fully absorbed in the body and end up fermenting in the digestive tract. The fermentation actually feeds the bacteria, making it more difficult to fight SIBO and SIBO symptoms.

Foods to avoid during phase 1:

• Fructose — some fruit and fruit juices, honey, processed cereals, baked goods, high-fructose corn syrup, maple syrup, processed sugars
• Lactose — conventional dairy and processed products with dairy and added lactose
• Fructans — wheat, garlic, onion, asparagus, leeks, artichokes, broccoli, cabbage
• Galactans — legumes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, soy
• Polyols — sorbitol, isomalt, lactitol, maltitol, xylitol and erythritol, commonly found in sugar-free gum, mints and some medications

It’s important to stick with a total elimination of the foods on the “avoid” list for this period.

Reading the list, it may seem like there’s little left to eat — however, there are plenty of great-tasting and healthy foods on the SIBO diet.

Foods to enjoy during phase 1:

• Wild-caught tuna and salmon
• Grass-fed beef and lamb
• Free-range poultry and eggs
• Raw hard cheeses
• Almond or coconut milk
• Leafy greens
• Squash
• Carrots
• Cucumbers
• Tomatoes
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Grapes
• Cantaloupe and honeydew melons
• Pineapple
• Strawberries
• Quinoa
• Sprouted nut butters

The goal of the SIBO diet is to repair the intestinal lining, ease inflammation, get rid of the bacterial overgrowth and eat a diet rich in the essential nutrients that your body hasn’t been absorbing. During the elimination phase, keep a supply of foods from the enjoy list on hand; if you slip and consume any FODMAPS, it’s suggested to start the two-week period again.

High-quality clean proteins, including wild-caught tuna and salmon, grass-fed beef and lamb, and free-rage poultry and eggs are easy to digest — and will give your body essential nutrients and energy. While somewhat limited during the FODMAPS elimination, you can still enjoy some fruits, including tomatoes, bananas, grapes, blueberries, strawberries, cantaloupe, honeydew melons and pineapple.

As your body heals from SIBO, eating fresh pineapple, which is rich in bromelain, each day can help lower inflammation while helping digestion. Bromelain has unbelievable health benefits, particularly for those with digestive disorders, allergies, asthma and joint pain.

In addition to pineapple, bananas help improve digestive health and boost energy levels. They’re a good source of both potassium and manganese, which the body needs while healing from SIBO. Carrots, cucumbers, leafy greens, squash, quinoa and sprouted nut butters are also on the enjoy list. Don’t get in a rut eating only certain foods during this first phase; be as diverse as possible.

Phase 2 — GAPS Diet:

After two weeks avoiding FODMAPS, it’s time to transfer to the GAPS diet plan and protocol. The GAPS diet helps repair leaky gut syndrome, rebalance bacteria throughout the digestive tract and prevent toxins entering the bloodstream. This nutritional plan also helps reduce food sensitivities, improve neurological function, boost the immune system, reduce anxiety and depression and heal IBS.

There are a number of foods that you need to continue to avoid on this plan. All grains, processed sugars, high-starch foods, processed foods, and non-organic meats and dairy should still be avoided. Your system is still healing from SIBO, and repairing your digestive tract and getting your body back in balance are the priorities.

It’s important to read the entire GAPS diet plan and protocol, as there are some important aspects not to be overlooked.

GAPS Diet – Important Guidelines

• Drink one cup of bone broth with each meal.
• Use coconut oil or ghee for cooking.
• Eat fruit in between meals, not with meals.
• Introduce probiotic-rich foods slowly (cultured vegetables, kombucha, natto, etc.)
• Don’t eat store-bought yogurt; consume only raw dairy fermented 24 hours or longer.
• Include one tablespoon fermented vegetable juice with each meal. (Sauerkraut juice is readily available.)

Don’t let the protocols and guidelines of the GAPS diet intimidate you. You’ll get into the swing of it in no time, and your digestive tract will continue to heal from SIBO.

Incorporate organic coconut oil whenever possible during this stage. According to the Mayo Clinic, medium-chain triglycerides are easier to digest for people with blind loop syndrome. (23) The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil, are just one of the reasons I believe it to be one of the healthiest fats on earth.

Supplements for SIBO

These are the supplements that most commonly come up for SIBO symptoms and treatment and overcoming the nutritional deficiencies caused by SIBO. Follow RDA levels for each, as supplement research for overcoming SIBO is in its infancy.

• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin K
• Probiotics
• Digestive Enzymes
• Iron
• Zinc

Essential Oils for SIBO

In addition to dietary changes and supplements, the use of essential oils has been shown to be helpful for people with SIBO symptoms. In a case report published in the Alternative Medicine Review, peppermint oil is shown to provide relief from certain gastrointestinal symptoms, including IBS and others. (24)

This report highlighted the use of enteric-coated peppermint oil in the treatment of IBS, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. A single patient with SIBO reported marked improvement with peppermint oil, and researchers indicated that further investigation is needed.

Other essential oils that may be beneficial when treating SIBO symptoms include oregano oil, tarragon oil, frankincense oil, clove oil and others. Use only high-quality, food-grade essential oils. A drop or two in a glass of water prior to a meal can help reduce boating and gas, as well as other symptoms of digestive upset.

Lifestyle Changes for SIBO

A few lifestyle changes may also be helpful in healing your digestive system and getting rid of SIBO symptoms. In both phase 1 and phase 2 of the SIBO diet, eat smaller meals, ideally three to five hours apart. It’s vital that you chew each bite thoroughly; remember digestion starts in the mouth! Drink plenty of fresh water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated.

It’s also important to manage stress during healing. Yoga, barre, tai chi, regular exercise and acupuncture can help reduce stress levels and keep you motivated to stay on track with the SIBO diet.

When treating SIBO symptoms, it’s important to give your body time to repair while fighting the bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine. By eliminating FODMAPS from your diet for two weeks, and then transitioning to the GAPS diet and protocol, you can start the healing process and be well on your way to killing the bacteria causing your SIBO symptoms.

Read Next: Does Histamine Intolerance Cause Allergies, Headaches & Bloating?

The post Do You Have SIBO Symptoms? Here Is ALL You Need to Know! appeared first on Dr. Axe.

At the root of acid reflux is dysfunction of the the lower esophageal sphincter, which is supposed to close as soon as food passes through. However, if it doesn’t close all the way, acid can creep up from lower in the digestive system and begin to cause an array of problems. If it’s not treated properly, long-term acid reflux can cause severe damage.

Easing acid reflux or GERD symptoms temporarily with medications or over-the-counter drugs is usually not a cure — it’s only a way to offer some relief as symptoms are suppressed in the short-term. Ironically, these medications may cause new or worsened symptoms, depending on how your body reacts to them. If you’ve been relying on over-the-counter and/or prescriptions to ease pain and discomfort, you might be familiar with some of the notorious side effects associated with their use, which include headaches, muscle cramps, rapid heart rate and more digestive upset.

Below you’ll find information related to natural remedies for managing acid reflux symptoms, providing you with a much better understanding overall of what causes this type of digestive dysfunction to begin with and how it can finally come to an end. In addition to lowering acid reflux symptoms, the same types of treatments can also usually be helpful for managing related issues, such as GERD symptoms.

Acid Reflux Symptoms

The most common acid reflux and GERD symptoms include: (3)

• Heartburn
• Bitter taste in your mouth, periodically or (for some people) throughout the day (some people taste regurgitated food or sour liquid at the back of their mouths/throats)
• Waking up in the middle of the night feeling like you’re choking or coughing
• Dry mouth
• Gum irritation, including tenderness and bleeding
• Bad breath
• Regurgitation of acidic foods
• Bloating after meals and during bouts of symptoms
• Nausea
• Bloody vomiting (possible sign of damage in the lining of the esophagus)
• Black stools
• Belching, gassiness, burping and flatulence after meals
• Hiccups that are difficult to stop
• Difficulty swallowing (a possible sign of narrowing esophagus)
• Unexpected weight loss
• Increased discomfort when bending over or lying down
• Hoarseness upon waking or throughout the day
• Chronic throat irritation, soreness and dryness

Related: What Are Meat Sweats? Plus How to Prevent Them

Complications

If you experience ongoing regurgitation of acid — because you don’t respond well to medications or don’t take steps to treat the root causes, for examples — scarring of tissue in the lower esophagus can result in narrowing of the esophagus, which raises the risk for other problems. Research shows that long-term complications associated with untreated symptoms of acid reflux include Barrett’s esophagus (a serious complication of GERD), cancer of the esophagus, sleep-related problems and chronic coughs. (4)

As the rate of acid reflux has risen steadily over the past decade, so have related complications. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2017, nearly 17,000 new cases of esophageal cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. and almost 16,000 Americans died of the disease. There are also side effects and complications possible due to taking medications for acid reflux, including prescription and even over-the-counter drugs. I’ll touch on that shortly.

Causes and Risk Factors

Contrary to popular belief (and what many pharmaceutical companies say in advertisements), acid reflux symptoms are not caused by too much acid in the stomach. In fact, it is now believed by many that low stomach acid often causes symptoms.

Acid reflux is caused by acid rising up to the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat and stomach. Acid enters the esophagus because of a leaky valve, and there are a variety of reasons this happens. The esophageal valve that connects the esophagus and stomach is unable to shut properly and gastric juices end up “sneaking up the pipe.” Then without proper levels of acid in the stomach, digestion is altered, often causing unpleasant symptoms.

While everyone’s gut is different and we all have different food sensitivities as well as acid reflux triggers, there are some repeat offenders that seem to contribute to many cases of acid reflux or GERD. (5)

Causes and risk factors associated with acid reflux and GERD include:

Inflammation: Studies have found that high levels of inflammation are linked to the development of GERD because they cause tissue damage and dysfunction in the esophagus. (6) Inflammation left to fester is also a factor in the development of esophageal cancer, a known complication of acid reflux. (7)

Hiatal Hernia: Hiatal hernias can cause the unpleasant symptoms of acid reflux. The diaphragm helps separate the stomach from the chest. A hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of the stomach protrudes above the diaphragm, allowing acid to escape. These hernias are associated with most, but not all, cases of GERD. (8)

Carbohydrate malabsorption: More and more evidence seems to point to the link between the poor digestion of carbohydrates and GERD. In the book “Heartburn Cured,” Dr. Norm Robillard argues that we target some incorrect trigger foods when treating GERD nutritionally and that more focus should be on eliminating excess carbohydrates.

The mechanisms behind this are somewhat complex, but to sum it up: research seems to reflect that acid reflux and GERD are probably exacerbated by too much intra-abdominal pressure (gas throughout the intestines). (9) Robillard and other sources believe this pressure is the result of bacterial overgrowth, such as SIBO, and malabsorption of carbohydrates. The root of this pressure may ultimately trace back to the low stomach acid of those suffering from acid reflux. (10)

Underdeveloped digestive system: Babies can develop acid reflux or GERD due to an underdeveloped digestive system. GERD in babies usually self-corrects by the age of 1.

Aging: Many aging and elderly members of the American population lack the appropriate amount of stomach acid needed to digest their food fully, often considered a side effect of taking antacids regularly and/or malnutrition. (11) This is true especially for those older individuals with H. pylori infections, which ultimately leads to atrophic gastritis, an inflammation of the gastric mucosa within the stomach. (12, 13)

One complication of acid reflux and GERD in elderly patients is that their symptoms present differently than younger people suffering the same issues. Repeated reflux eventually leads to an inability to recognize the severity of acid in the esophagus, which is why some older people don’t recognize symptoms of acid reflux, although they may be suffering from serious complications like erosive esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus. It is not uncommon for doctors to find that GERD is the root cause of serious symptoms in the elderly like chest pain, other heart symptoms and gastrointestinal bleeding. (14)

Pregnancy: When a woman is pregnant, the fetus can put extra pressure on the esophageal valve, causing the release of acid and symptoms of acid reflux. Elevating the head during sleep, sipping herbal teas and eating smaller meals can help.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the valves and sphincter that allow release of acid. This is probably why obesity is often associated with acid reflux and GERD. In eight out of nine studies included in a large review, as BMI (body mass index, a measure of body fat) rose, so did GERD symptoms. The same study review found that obesity was correlated with higher levels of other related disorders, including erosive esophagitis, esophageal and gastric cancers. (15)

Large meals: Eating bigger meals is a culprit, as is snacking too close to bedtime. An overly full stomach places excessive pressure on the diaphragm, causing acid to travel upward.

Smoking cigarettes: This impairs muscle reflexes and increases production of acid, and it should be avoided for anyone suffering from acid reflux. Smoking cessation is associated with significant improvement of GERD/acid reflux symptoms. (16)

Medications and supplements: Certain medications, including ibuprofen, muscle relaxers, some blood pressure prescriptions, antibiotics and aspirin can cause acid reflux and GERD. Potassium and iron supplements can also aggravate reflux symptoms. (17) Read warning labels, and discuss alternatives with your physician.

Heartburn: Heartburn can be the first symptom of an H. pylori infection that’s common in two-thirds of the population and tied to stomach ulcers. Left untreated, severe infection can sometimes contribute to formation of stomach cancer.

Excessive exercise: Due to taxing the nervous system, overtraining and getting too little rest can cause acid reflux by putting extra pressure on the abdominal cavity. This includes running and other aerobic high-impact exercises. (18)

Magnesium deficiency: Low magnesium levels may lead to improper functioning of the sphincter that prevents acid from escaping. (19)

Chronic cough: There is a strong correlation between cough and acid reflux. Although this relationship is not causal (meaning researchers have not definitely proven one causes the other), cough may be either a factor in developing GERD or a symptom of the process of acid escaping into the esophagus. (20)

Acid Reflux vs. GERD vs. Heartburn: How Are They Different?

All of these painful digestive conditions are related and tend to cause similar symptoms; however, they usually develop in stages.

In the case of acid reflux, the patient experiences backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. When this progresses, it can be diagnosed as GERD, which is considered to be more severe. (21)

Heartburn is also commonly called GERD. The most common symptom of GERD is frequent pains  in the chest and burning sensations (hence the name “heartburn”). Other signs of GERD are difficulty swallowing or keeping down food/liquids (very common in young children), coughing, wheezing and chest pain. Most often these symptoms occur at night.

It’s estimated that 60 percent of Americans have heartburn at least once a year, with 20–30 percent suffering at least once a week. (22) An alarming finding is that the prevalence of weekly heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux rose nearly 50 percent over the last decade. Findings from one study conducted over 11 years in Norway found that the incidence of acid reflux rose from around 11 percent of the population to over 17 percent within this time period, and a similar rise has happened in the U.S. and other industrialized countries too. (23)

While it might not be the biggest deal to have acid reflux symptoms from time to time, research shows that people with long-standing, chronic heartburn are at greater risk for serious complications, including stricture (narrowing) of the esophagus and esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus.

Conventional Treatments

The three main types of medicines to treat acid reflux symptoms or those caused by GERD are antacids, histamine type 2 receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Should these not work or more serious intervention is needed, doctors will sometimes recommend surgery to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter. Unfortunately, this surgery is not a cure and symptoms may return.

The major problem here is the insistence that excessive stomach acidity is the problem. Your stomach functions optimally when it is between 1.5 and 3.5 pH (an extremely acidic environment), and acid-blocking drugs can raise that pH somewhere around two points (a higher pH means a lower acid level). What’s the problem with that?

Well, for one, they don’t address the root problem and provide only temporary relief. When antacids make the stomach less acidic, more acid is automatically produced to bring the stomach back to its intended pH level. The body will continue this process every time a medicinal measure is taken to reduce acidity.

Hypochlorhydria, the clinical term for low stomach acid, is an under-researched and dangerous condition. Every time you take antacids, H2 blockers or PPIs, you are contributing more to this problem (which may be one reason you develop heartburn in the first place). Prolonged hypochlorhydria leads to chronic atrophic gastritis and is associated with side effects including vitamin B12 deficiency, autoimmune conditions, asthma, diabetes, chronic fatigue and many other disorders. (24)

Antacids

According to common (and faulty) assumptions about excessive acid levels causing a dangerously high level of acidity in the stomach, most practitioners recommend over-the-counter antacids as a first line of defense against heartburn and reflux. A medication such as TUMS® can give quick relief (within a matter of minutes) to a case of heartburn — but, like most conventional medicine, this is used to treat a symptom rather than an underlying disorder.

The side effects of antacids themselves list 20 issues related to repeated use: (25)

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Feelings of discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Mood/mental changes
• Weakness
• Calcium loss
• Osteoporosis
• Kidney stones
• Wrist/ankle swelling
• Bone pain
• Discolored stool
• Aluminum toxicity
• Slow breathing
• Frequent urination
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Drug/supplement interactions

Histamine Type 2 Receptor Agonists (H2 Blockers)

Also available over the counter, H2 blockers work more slowly than antacids to reduce stomach acid and take longer to treat symptoms (60 to 90 minutes), but are intended to last for longer periods of time. These include Pepcid/Pepcid AC®, Axid®, Tagamet® and Zantac® and work by blocking a substance in the body that encourages acid production in the stomach.

By stopping the production of hydrochloric acid (HCl, which is your stomach’s natural acid), these medications also stop pepsin production, the digestive enzyme responsible for breaking down protein so it can be digested. This allows for undigested protein to make its way to your intestines, further increasing intra-abdominal pressure (a possible underlying cause of acid reflux/GERD).

Raising the pH of your stomach beyond what it was intended also increases your risk of infection, as the bacteria that would be killed by a healthy pH of 3 in the stomach are able to live when they should not. (26) Users run the risk of infection by common bacteria like listeria and salmonella, as well as being at a higher risk of developing pneumonia, tuberculosis, typhoid and dysentery. (27, 28)

H2 blockers have several drug interaction warnings and might cause the following side effects, especially when taken in large doses over time:

• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mental disturbances
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Headache
• Impotence
• Breast enlargement in men
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Heart issues
• Kidney problems
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Cough
• Liver damage
• Stomach cancer (in people with untreated H. pylori infection)
• Pneumonia (in hospitalized patients, the elderly and children) (29)
• Ulcer perforation and bleeding
• Iron deficiency (30, 31)
• Decreased folate absorption (32)
• Calcium deficiency (33)
• Decreased zinc absorption (34)

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

The most dangerous class of conventional acid reflux drugs are known as proton pump inhibitors. These medications (17 are on the market, at current count) control acid reflux symptoms by permanently blocking an enzyme that tells your stomach to produce acid, H+/K+ ATPase, found in the parietal walls of the stomach lining. Popular PPIs include Nexium®, Aciphex®, Prevacid® and Prilosec®.

Recent releases by the media have shown the reason for concern about taking PPIs, especially in the long-term. The FDA has released warnings about PPIs in the last several years regarding magnesium deficiency, increased risk of bone fractures and C. diff-related diarrhea.

Since they act as “super” versions of the above two classes of drugs in many ways, the same associated side effects are also commonly found in this class of medications. Indeed, it seems like PPIs might induce the very issues they seek to correct. (35) There are also many other researched problems and side effects of PPIs, leading to the understanding of many that these medications should not be used for extended treatment. (36)

C. difficile: This bacterial infection is a potential danger for those taking both H2 blockers and PPIs. Researchers at McGill University in Quebec found an increase of C. diff infection risk of two times for those taking H2 blockers and nearly three times for those on PPIs. (37)

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): One study found an increase of SIBO at a rate of 50 percent in patients on PPIs, versus 6 percent in the control group. (38)

Vitamin B12 deficiency: Patients on PPI drugs do not properly absorb many vitamins and minerals. Most notably is the discovery that vitamin B-12 is particularly problematic for these people. (39, 40) A deficiency in B12 can lead to chronic fatigue, muscle pain/weakness, memory and mood changes, heart palpitations and digestive issues, among other symptoms.

Stomach cancer: Because it increases secretion of the hormone gastrin, a PPI drug like Prilosec® can result in three to 10 times the amount of gastrin normally found in the human body. (41) Hypergastrinimia (large concentrations of gastrin) is associated with higher rates of gastric cancer. (42)

Ulcers: Duodenal (intestinal) and gastric ulcers may be another result of long-term PPI usage. Ninety percent of duodenal ulcers and 65 percent of gastric ulcers are caused by H. pylori, and one experiment found that H. pylori infection couldn’t happen without using acid-lowering drugs first to raise the pH of the stomach. (43, 44)