1. Diverticulosis is a condition with pouch-like protrusions in the colon:
* Rare before age 30
* Common after age 60
* Usually no symptoms
2. Complications of diverticulosis include:
* Bright red rectal bleeding with clots
* Diverticulitis
3. Ways to prevent and manage diverticular disease include:
* Increasing dietary fiber to keep bowel movements soft
* Avoiding stimulant laxatives
4. Diverticulitis is a serious complication in which pouches become inflamed or infected. Symptoms of diverticulitis include:
* Pain in left lower abdomen
* Fever
* Sudden change in bowel habit
See your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
5. Treatment of diverticulitis may include:
* Antibiotics
* Special feeding
* Surgery
Jun 28, 2008
10 Tips on Constipation and Incontinence of Stool
1. Despite widespread belief, constipation is not necessarily a part of growing older.
2. Bowel habits are similar in both younger and older healthy people.
3. Constipation is defined as stools that are:
* Too small
* Too hard
* Too difficult to pass
* Infrequent (less than 3 per week)
4. Constipation is caused by:
* Not enough dietary fiber or fluids
* Medication side effects
* Emotional or physical stress
* Misconception about normal bowel habits
* Lack of activity
* Medical problems
5. How to manage mild-to-moderate constipation:
* Gradually add dietary fiber from variou sources
* Increase fluids (water, soup, broth, juices)
* Eat meals on a regular schedule
* Chew your food well
* Gradually increase daily exercise
* Respond to urges to move your bowels
* Avoid straining
See your doctor if these measures don't work
6. Dietary therapy (increased fiber and fluids) and fiber supplements are the preferred treatment for chronic constipation.
7. In some cases, your doctor may recommend the use of stool softeners.
8. Use of mineral oil or stimulant laxatives regularly, consult your doctor to make sure what you are using is right for you.
9. Incontinence of stool or fecal soiling is most often due to leakage around a fecal impaction. Removing the impaction will usually restore continence.
10. Incontinence of stool in healthy older people deserves full education and treatment. Treatment options include:
* Adjustment in dietary fiber to reduce amount of stool
* Medications to decrease stool frequency
* Prescribed use of enemas (not soap enemas)
* Biofeedback training
* Surgery to restore anal function
2. Bowel habits are similar in both younger and older healthy people.
3. Constipation is defined as stools that are:
* Too small
* Too hard
* Too difficult to pass
* Infrequent (less than 3 per week)
4. Constipation is caused by:
* Not enough dietary fiber or fluids
* Medication side effects
* Emotional or physical stress
* Misconception about normal bowel habits
* Lack of activity
* Medical problems
5. How to manage mild-to-moderate constipation:
* Gradually add dietary fiber from variou sources
* Increase fluids (water, soup, broth, juices)
* Eat meals on a regular schedule
* Chew your food well
* Gradually increase daily exercise
* Respond to urges to move your bowels
* Avoid straining
See your doctor if these measures don't work
6. Dietary therapy (increased fiber and fluids) and fiber supplements are the preferred treatment for chronic constipation.
7. In some cases, your doctor may recommend the use of stool softeners.
8. Use of mineral oil or stimulant laxatives regularly, consult your doctor to make sure what you are using is right for you.
9. Incontinence of stool or fecal soiling is most often due to leakage around a fecal impaction. Removing the impaction will usually restore continence.
10. Incontinence of stool in healthy older people deserves full education and treatment. Treatment options include:
* Adjustment in dietary fiber to reduce amount of stool
* Medications to decrease stool frequency
* Prescribed use of enemas (not soap enemas)
* Biofeedback training
* Surgery to restore anal function
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5 Tips on Inflammatory Bowel Disease
1. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammation of the small or large intestine that may cause these symptoms:
* Diarrhea
* Rectal bleeding
* Sharp abdominal pain or cramping
* Intestinal obstruction
* Fever
See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms
2. There are two types of IBD:
* Ulcerative Colitis
o Starts in rectum and spreas upward
o Affects men more tham women
* Crohn's Disease
o More patchy inflammation
o Can start anywhere in the digestive tract
o Affects women more than men
3. The cause of IBD is unknown. What is known about IBD includes the following:
* IBD is not Contagious.
* IBD is not caused by diet.
* IBD is not a form of cancer.
* IBD affects young and old alike.
* IBD can usually be treated with medicine but sometimes requires surgery.
4. Diagnosis of IBD is based on:
* Family history, travel history, current medications
* Stool sample to rule out infection
* Flexible sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy and biopsy to rule out cancer and to identify
* IBD
* X-ray studies
5. Treatment of IBD may include:
* Medications to reduce or eliminate inflammation
* Special diet or elemental formula diet
* Surgery
Time is critical. If you suspect IBD, call your doctor.
* Diarrhea
* Rectal bleeding
* Sharp abdominal pain or cramping
* Intestinal obstruction
* Fever
See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms
2. There are two types of IBD:
* Ulcerative Colitis
o Starts in rectum and spreas upward
o Affects men more tham women
* Crohn's Disease
o More patchy inflammation
o Can start anywhere in the digestive tract
o Affects women more than men
3. The cause of IBD is unknown. What is known about IBD includes the following:
* IBD is not Contagious.
* IBD is not caused by diet.
* IBD is not a form of cancer.
* IBD affects young and old alike.
* IBD can usually be treated with medicine but sometimes requires surgery.
4. Diagnosis of IBD is based on:
* Family history, travel history, current medications
* Stool sample to rule out infection
* Flexible sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy and biopsy to rule out cancer and to identify
* IBD
* X-ray studies
5. Treatment of IBD may include:
* Medications to reduce or eliminate inflammation
* Special diet or elemental formula diet
* Surgery
Time is critical. If you suspect IBD, call your doctor.
10 Tips on Hemorrhoids
1. Hemorrhoids are masses of swollen veins in the lower rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or at the anus (external hemorrhoids).
2. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include:
* Bright red rectal bleeding
* Staining of undergarments with mucus
3. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include:
* Pain and itching when irritated by constipation or diarrhea
* Difficulty with hygiene
4. Hemorrhoids are caused by:
* Straining
* Work strain (lifting, etc.)
* Straining while defecating
* Chronic constipation
* Passing hard, dry, small stools
* Laxative abuse
5. Do not assume rectal bleeding is from hemorrhoids. See your doctor to rule out cancer or other disease.
6. To prevent or manage hemorrhoids, increase your fiber and fluid intake. Consider adding a fiber supplement.
7. Avoid straining at stool or sitting on the toilet for a long time.
8. Clean the external rectal area gently with soap and water following stool evacuation.
9. Try a topical cream or sitz baths to reduce inflammation.
10. See your doctor if you don't improve.
2. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include:
* Bright red rectal bleeding
* Staining of undergarments with mucus
3. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include:
* Pain and itching when irritated by constipation or diarrhea
* Difficulty with hygiene
4. Hemorrhoids are caused by:
* Straining
* Work strain (lifting, etc.)
* Straining while defecating
* Chronic constipation
* Passing hard, dry, small stools
* Laxative abuse
5. Do not assume rectal bleeding is from hemorrhoids. See your doctor to rule out cancer or other disease.
6. To prevent or manage hemorrhoids, increase your fiber and fluid intake. Consider adding a fiber supplement.
7. Avoid straining at stool or sitting on the toilet for a long time.
8. Clean the external rectal area gently with soap and water following stool evacuation.
9. Try a topical cream or sitz baths to reduce inflammation.
10. See your doctor if you don't improve.
5 Tips on Irritable Bowel Syndrome
1. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a digestive problem also known as "spastic colon" or "irritable colon."
2. IBS symptoms include:
* Abdominal pain (colicky, periodic or continuous dull pain)
* Erratic bowel activity; frequent constipation or diarrhea
* Accompanying symptoms of bloating, nausea, headache, fatigue
* Sensitivity to intestinal gas (cramping, flatulence)
3. The cause of IBS is unknown:
* No evidence of specific disease
* May be triggered by psychological factors or ingestion of food
4. IBS is a condition that:
* Is more common in women
* Usually starts at an early age (20s and 30s) and recurs from time to time
* Rarely starts past age 55
5. Treatment of IBS includes:
* Careful explanation of the syndrome, including what it is not
* Better management of key triggers: stress and diet
* Modification of diet to reduce or exclude foods that promote gas
* Drug therapy to relieve symptoms (bulk fiber products, antispasmodics, antidiarrheals)
* Occasionally, psychiatric therapy and medication
2. IBS symptoms include:
* Abdominal pain (colicky, periodic or continuous dull pain)
* Erratic bowel activity; frequent constipation or diarrhea
* Accompanying symptoms of bloating, nausea, headache, fatigue
* Sensitivity to intestinal gas (cramping, flatulence)
3. The cause of IBS is unknown:
* No evidence of specific disease
* May be triggered by psychological factors or ingestion of food
4. IBS is a condition that:
* Is more common in women
* Usually starts at an early age (20s and 30s) and recurs from time to time
* Rarely starts past age 55
5. Treatment of IBS includes:
* Careful explanation of the syndrome, including what it is not
* Better management of key triggers: stress and diet
* Modification of diet to reduce or exclude foods that promote gas
* Drug therapy to relieve symptoms (bulk fiber products, antispasmodics, antidiarrheals)
* Occasionally, psychiatric therapy and medication
5 Tips on Use of Medications
1. Use of medications increases with age: 80% of older Americans who live independently receive 20 or more prescriptions per year Residents of nursing homes receive an average of 8-10 drugs per day
2. It is important to take medications as prescribed. Reasons for not following directions include:
* Too many drugs
* Error due to visual or mental impairment
* Sharing drugs
* Changing doctors
* Use of over-the-counter drugs
* Sparing expense
* Drug side effects
* Symptoms not improving
3. See your doctor regularly to check on medications and their effect (bring your medications with you for an office visit or to an emergency room): Drug effect changes with aging There is decreased absorption of drugs through the intestinal tract Decreased kidney function slows drug elimination Metabolism of drugs changes with age.
4. The effect medications have on your body will change with aging. For example: Drug action may last longer Drugs may produce toxicity at a lower dose in mature adults than in younger adults.
5. Remember that all changes you experience are not necessarily due to aging. For example, decrease in salivary flow is: Due to disease or medication not due to aging
2. It is important to take medications as prescribed. Reasons for not following directions include:
* Too many drugs
* Error due to visual or mental impairment
* Sharing drugs
* Changing doctors
* Use of over-the-counter drugs
* Sparing expense
* Drug side effects
* Symptoms not improving
3. See your doctor regularly to check on medications and their effect (bring your medications with you for an office visit or to an emergency room): Drug effect changes with aging There is decreased absorption of drugs through the intestinal tract Decreased kidney function slows drug elimination Metabolism of drugs changes with age.
4. The effect medications have on your body will change with aging. For example: Drug action may last longer Drugs may produce toxicity at a lower dose in mature adults than in younger adults.
5. Remember that all changes you experience are not necessarily due to aging. For example, decrease in salivary flow is: Due to disease or medication not due to aging
4 Tips on Circulatory Disorders of the GI Tract
1. The small intestine and the colon have a relatively restricted blood supply and are frequently affected by circulatory disorders, whereas the esophagus, stomach, and rectum are well supplied with blood and are only occasionally involved in circulatory disturbances.
2. The colon is commonly affected by ischemia (reduction of blood flow to a level not permitting normal function). In most cases, symptoms subside within days and healing is seen within 2 weeks. Antibiotics and bowel rest usually suffice. In complicated disease, damaged parts of the colon must be removed surgically.
3. Acute mesenteric ischemia results from inadequate circulation of blood to the small intestine. Treatment is aimed at dilating (opening) the blood vessels with drugs and/or surgery to restore intestinal blood flow and to remove any irreversibly damaged bowel.
4. Chronic mesenteric ischemia results when blood flow to the small intestine is reduced to an insufficient level. It causes pain associated with eating. Surgery is often warranted to correct the problem.
2. The colon is commonly affected by ischemia (reduction of blood flow to a level not permitting normal function). In most cases, symptoms subside within days and healing is seen within 2 weeks. Antibiotics and bowel rest usually suffice. In complicated disease, damaged parts of the colon must be removed surgically.
3. Acute mesenteric ischemia results from inadequate circulation of blood to the small intestine. Treatment is aimed at dilating (opening) the blood vessels with drugs and/or surgery to restore intestinal blood flow and to remove any irreversibly damaged bowel.
4. Chronic mesenteric ischemia results when blood flow to the small intestine is reduced to an insufficient level. It causes pain associated with eating. Surgery is often warranted to correct the problem.
6 Tips on Hepatitis
1. Five different hepatitis viruses have been identified: type A; type B; type C; type D, or delta virus; and type E. Type A is probably the most prevalent type of viral hepatitis worldwide, followed by types B, E, C, and D.
2. Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through fecally contaminated food or water. Other modes of transmission include needle sharing among intravenous drug abusers; sexual contact; maternal transmission; and transmission by blood transfusion.
3. A simple blood test is used to determine that a person has one or more of the different types of hepatitis.
4. Acute hepatitis is typically characterized by flu-like symptoms (including fever, headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting) and jaundice. Chronic hepatitis is often asymptomatic.
5. Vaccines are available to protect against hepatitis A and B. Additionally, immune globulin for hepatitis A or hepatitis B is recommended when someone has been exposed to an infected person.
6. Among the ways to care for your liver are: limiting alcohol consumption; avoiding liver- damaging drugs; practicing safe sex; avoiding use of illegal drugs; avoiding high doses of vitamins unless prescribed; avoiding tattoos and the sharing of razors; not eating raw shellfish from questionable sources; and carefully following directions for use of toxic substances (e.g., cleaning products).
2. Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through fecally contaminated food or water. Other modes of transmission include needle sharing among intravenous drug abusers; sexual contact; maternal transmission; and transmission by blood transfusion.
3. A simple blood test is used to determine that a person has one or more of the different types of hepatitis.
4. Acute hepatitis is typically characterized by flu-like symptoms (including fever, headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting) and jaundice. Chronic hepatitis is often asymptomatic.
5. Vaccines are available to protect against hepatitis A and B. Additionally, immune globulin for hepatitis A or hepatitis B is recommended when someone has been exposed to an infected person.
6. Among the ways to care for your liver are: limiting alcohol consumption; avoiding liver- damaging drugs; practicing safe sex; avoiding use of illegal drugs; avoiding high doses of vitamins unless prescribed; avoiding tattoos and the sharing of razors; not eating raw shellfish from questionable sources; and carefully following directions for use of toxic substances (e.g., cleaning products).
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5 Tips on Gallstone Disease
1. Gallstones typically develop over many years, although they can form in months. Gallstones are present in about 20% of women and 10% of men over the age of 55.
2. There are two basic types of gallstones: cholesterol and pigment. Cholesterol gallstones are the most common type in the United States.
3. About 75% of gallstones do not cause symptoms. The most common symptom caused by gallbladder stones is episodic upper abdominal pain.
4. For healthy patients who have no symptoms, no therapy or change in diet is needed. Patients with uncomplicated symptomatic gallbladder stones should reduce dietary fat and consider surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). An alternate approach is oral bile acid therapy. For complicated disease, gallbladder removal is warranted.
5. Patients who undergo rapid weight loss are at risk for the development of small cholesterol gallstones and may benefit from bile acid therapy. Gallstones can seldom be prevented, although a low-fat diet may provide some protective benefit.
2. There are two basic types of gallstones: cholesterol and pigment. Cholesterol gallstones are the most common type in the United States.
3. About 75% of gallstones do not cause symptoms. The most common symptom caused by gallbladder stones is episodic upper abdominal pain.
4. For healthy patients who have no symptoms, no therapy or change in diet is needed. Patients with uncomplicated symptomatic gallbladder stones should reduce dietary fat and consider surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). An alternate approach is oral bile acid therapy. For complicated disease, gallbladder removal is warranted.
5. Patients who undergo rapid weight loss are at risk for the development of small cholesterol gallstones and may benefit from bile acid therapy. Gallstones can seldom be prevented, although a low-fat diet may provide some protective benefit.
5 Tips on Nutrition and Aging
1. Nutrition plays a role in cardiovascular disease, some malignancies, adult-onset diabetes, osteoporosis, alcoholism, and recovery from major injury.
2. Malnutrition can weaken the immune system, impair healing following surgery or injury, lessen mobility, and reduce mental capabilities and function. It is common in older adults.
3. To maintain good health, total fat intake should be reduced to 30% or less of calories. Saturated fat intake should only account for 10% (one third of fat calories). Salt and alcohol intake also should be limited.
4. Dietary fat content composed primarily of monounsaturated fat (eg, olive oil) and polyunsaturated fat (eg, canola, corn and fish oils) may be associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease.
5. Foods to be avoided include whole milk and dairy products (ice cream, cheese, butter); commercially baked goods (cookies and crackers); hot dogs, ham, and cold cuts; and oils, gravies, and salad dressing.
2. Malnutrition can weaken the immune system, impair healing following surgery or injury, lessen mobility, and reduce mental capabilities and function. It is common in older adults.
3. To maintain good health, total fat intake should be reduced to 30% or less of calories. Saturated fat intake should only account for 10% (one third of fat calories). Salt and alcohol intake also should be limited.
4. Dietary fat content composed primarily of monounsaturated fat (eg, olive oil) and polyunsaturated fat (eg, canola, corn and fish oils) may be associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease.
5. Foods to be avoided include whole milk and dairy products (ice cream, cheese, butter); commercially baked goods (cookies and crackers); hot dogs, ham, and cold cuts; and oils, gravies, and salad dressing.
080610447F
5 Tips on Swallowing and Heartburn
1. Abnormal swallowing is commonly perceived as food "sticking on the way down." If this complaint persists, it is sometimes due to a serious condition and should always prompt medical attention.
2. Swallowing difficulty may be caused by a number of different problems including:
* Poor or incomplete chewing (possibly the result of dental problems, poorly fitted dentures, or eating too quickly)
* Abnormal muscle contraction
* Scar tissue from chronic inflammation
* Infection
* Cancer
3. Heartburn is a very common problem caused by regurgitation or reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus, which connects the mouth and the stomach.
4. Heartburn can often be eliminated by avoiding:
* Smoking
* Fatty ood in the diet
* Caffeine
* Chocolate
* Peppermint
* Overeating
* Bed-time snacks
* Tight-fitting clothes that constrict the abdomen
* Certain medications
* Heavy lifting, straining
5. It is important to consider the possibility of heart disease before attributing any kind of chest pain to gastroesophageal reflux.
2. Swallowing difficulty may be caused by a number of different problems including:
* Poor or incomplete chewing (possibly the result of dental problems, poorly fitted dentures, or eating too quickly)
* Abnormal muscle contraction
* Scar tissue from chronic inflammation
* Infection
* Cancer
3. Heartburn is a very common problem caused by regurgitation or reflux of gastric acid into the esophagus, which connects the mouth and the stomach.
4. Heartburn can often be eliminated by avoiding:
* Smoking
* Fatty ood in the diet
* Caffeine
* Chocolate
* Peppermint
* Overeating
* Bed-time snacks
* Tight-fitting clothes that constrict the abdomen
* Certain medications
* Heavy lifting, straining
5. It is important to consider the possibility of heart disease before attributing any kind of chest pain to gastroesophageal reflux.
8 Tips on Peptic Ulcer Disease
1. Ulcers are "sores" that frequently affect the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
2. Bacterial infection is the most common cause of duodenal ulcers.
3. Stomach ulcers are often a side effect of pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs used primarily to treat arthritis.
4. Alcohol ingestion, cigarette smoking, and emotional stress may also influence the development of an ulcer or interfere with its healing.
5. Upper abdominal pain is the most common symptom of ulcers, but many ulcers cause no symptoms at all.
6. Ulcers may hemorrhage (bleeding) into the gastrointestinal tract; this results in the passage of black ("tarry") stool. Very serious ulcer disease may also cause a blockage between the stomach and small intestine and this complication results in persistent vomiting. Severe pain results from the most urgent complication of ulcers - peritonitis caused by a tear through the wall of the stomach or duodenum.
7. Almost all ulcers can be treated successfully, usually without surgery. Many ulcers can be prevented.
8. Ulcer treatments include antibiotics, agents that neutralize gastric acid or reduce its secretion, and drugs that strengthen the resistance of the stomach and duodenum.
2. Bacterial infection is the most common cause of duodenal ulcers.
3. Stomach ulcers are often a side effect of pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs used primarily to treat arthritis.
4. Alcohol ingestion, cigarette smoking, and emotional stress may also influence the development of an ulcer or interfere with its healing.
5. Upper abdominal pain is the most common symptom of ulcers, but many ulcers cause no symptoms at all.
6. Ulcers may hemorrhage (bleeding) into the gastrointestinal tract; this results in the passage of black ("tarry") stool. Very serious ulcer disease may also cause a blockage between the stomach and small intestine and this complication results in persistent vomiting. Severe pain results from the most urgent complication of ulcers - peritonitis caused by a tear through the wall of the stomach or duodenum.
7. Almost all ulcers can be treated successfully, usually without surgery. Many ulcers can be prevented.
8. Ulcer treatments include antibiotics, agents that neutralize gastric acid or reduce its secretion, and drugs that strengthen the resistance of the stomach and duodenum.
10 Tips on Belching, Bloating, and Flatulence
1. Belching is caused by swallowed air from:
* Eating or drinking too fast
* Poorly fitting dentures; not chewing food completely
* Carbonated beverages
* Chewing gum or sucking on hard candies
* Excessive swallowing due to nervous tension or postnasal drip
* Forced belching to relieve abdominal discomfort
2. To prevent excessive belching, avoid:
* Carbonated beverages
* Chewing gum
* Hard candies
Simethicone may be helpful
3. Abdominal bloating and discomfort may be due to intestinal sensitivity or symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. To relieve symptoms, avoid:
* Broccoli
* Baked beans
* Cabbage
* Carbonated drinks
* Cauliflower
* Chewing gum
* Hard candy
4. Abdominal distention resulting from weak abdominal muscles:
* Is better in the morning
* Gets worse as the day progresses
* Is relieved by lying down
5. To prevent Abdominal distention:
* Tighten abdominal muscles by pulling in your stomach several times during the day
* So sit-up exercises if possible
* Wear an abdominal support garment if exercise is too difficult
6. Flatulence is gas created through bacterial action in the bowel and passed rectally. Keep in mind that:
* 10-18 passages per day are normal
* Primary gases are harmless and odorless
* Noticeable smells are trace gases related to food intake
7. Foods that are likely to form gas include:
* Milk, dairy products, and medications that contain lactose--If your body doesn't produce the enzyme (lactase) to break it down.
* Certain vegetables--baked beans, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage
* Certain starches--wheat, oats, corn, potatoes. Rice is a good substitute.
8. If flatulence is a concern, see your doctor to determine if you are lactose intolerant.
9. Identify offending foods. Reduce or eliminate these gas-forming foods from your diet.
10. Activated Charcoal may provide some benefit.
* Eating or drinking too fast
* Poorly fitting dentures; not chewing food completely
* Carbonated beverages
* Chewing gum or sucking on hard candies
* Excessive swallowing due to nervous tension or postnasal drip
* Forced belching to relieve abdominal discomfort
2. To prevent excessive belching, avoid:
* Carbonated beverages
* Chewing gum
* Hard candies
Simethicone may be helpful
3. Abdominal bloating and discomfort may be due to intestinal sensitivity or symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. To relieve symptoms, avoid:
* Broccoli
* Baked beans
* Cabbage
* Carbonated drinks
* Cauliflower
* Chewing gum
* Hard candy
4. Abdominal distention resulting from weak abdominal muscles:
* Is better in the morning
* Gets worse as the day progresses
* Is relieved by lying down
5. To prevent Abdominal distention:
* Tighten abdominal muscles by pulling in your stomach several times during the day
* So sit-up exercises if possible
* Wear an abdominal support garment if exercise is too difficult
6. Flatulence is gas created through bacterial action in the bowel and passed rectally. Keep in mind that:
* 10-18 passages per day are normal
* Primary gases are harmless and odorless
* Noticeable smells are trace gases related to food intake
7. Foods that are likely to form gas include:
* Milk, dairy products, and medications that contain lactose--If your body doesn't produce the enzyme (lactase) to break it down.
* Certain vegetables--baked beans, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage
* Certain starches--wheat, oats, corn, potatoes. Rice is a good substitute.
8. If flatulence is a concern, see your doctor to determine if you are lactose intolerant.
9. Identify offending foods. Reduce or eliminate these gas-forming foods from your diet.
10. Activated Charcoal may provide some benefit.
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Food or Pills?
Supplements are not the secret weapon to better health, nor can they make up for a poor diet. While vitamin and mineral pills can help round out a healthy diet, they cannot take the place of the many nutrients and fiber found in whole foods.
At the WebMD Weight Loss Clinic, we recommend taking a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement for nutritional "insurance." Depending on your food choices, even the best eating plans can fall short of meeting all your nutritional needs. Taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement is safe, and may offer additional health benefits. According to a study published in the August 2003 Journal of Nutrition, a daily multivitamin can reduce your risk of having a first heart attack. Other studies have suggested that daily supplements can help maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
But remember that more is not always better: When you are choosing your daily multivitamin/mineral, make sure it contains no more than 100% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for any nutrient.
It's a much better idea to get your nutrients from food and take a simple vitamin/mineral supplement once per day -- unless your physician recommends otherwise. (Keep in mind that that certain health conditions, such as pregnancy, call for specific supplements, so check with your doctor if you have health issues).
At the WebMD Weight Loss Clinic, we recommend taking a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement for nutritional "insurance." Depending on your food choices, even the best eating plans can fall short of meeting all your nutritional needs. Taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement is safe, and may offer additional health benefits. According to a study published in the August 2003 Journal of Nutrition, a daily multivitamin can reduce your risk of having a first heart attack. Other studies have suggested that daily supplements can help maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
But remember that more is not always better: When you are choosing your daily multivitamin/mineral, make sure it contains no more than 100% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for any nutrient.
It's a much better idea to get your nutrients from food and take a simple vitamin/mineral supplement once per day -- unless your physician recommends otherwise. (Keep in mind that that certain health conditions, such as pregnancy, call for specific supplements, so check with your doctor if you have health issues).
Daily Health Task Lists
Just like brushing your teeth, healthy habits should be cultivated on a daily basis. The following is a guide to daily tasks:
1. Activity should be a daily occurrence. Walk, run or jump for a minimum total of 20 minutes a day.
2. Protect your skin. Sun block should be applied on face, neck, arms and hands even in the dead of winter. It protects against climatic toxins too. Moisturize skin daily.
3. Eat fruits, vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy products and small amounts of protein. Avoid sweets and other processed foods.
4. Meditate or spend a minimum of five minutes daily in quiet time.
5. Find your spiritual self. Discover what inspires you, raises your level of consciousness, motivates you, and satisfies your soul.
6. Exercise your brain. Read, study, solve problems, and learn new skills. As does the body, the brain atrophies with lack of use.
7. Hug somebody.
1. Activity should be a daily occurrence. Walk, run or jump for a minimum total of 20 minutes a day.
2. Protect your skin. Sun block should be applied on face, neck, arms and hands even in the dead of winter. It protects against climatic toxins too. Moisturize skin daily.
3. Eat fruits, vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy products and small amounts of protein. Avoid sweets and other processed foods.
4. Meditate or spend a minimum of five minutes daily in quiet time.
5. Find your spiritual self. Discover what inspires you, raises your level of consciousness, motivates you, and satisfies your soul.
6. Exercise your brain. Read, study, solve problems, and learn new skills. As does the body, the brain atrophies with lack of use.
7. Hug somebody.
Jun 27, 2008
10 Essential Health Tips
1. Move More
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes. Thought for the day: Buckle down and buckle up.
7. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't? Thought for the day: Floss and be your body's boss.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Thought for the day: Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes. Thought for the day: Buckle down and buckle up.
7. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't? Thought for the day: Floss and be your body's boss.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Thought for the day: Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.
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