5 Most Common Digestive Disorders

5 Most Common Digestive Disorders

Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are usually symptoms of digestive conditions. These diseases vary from mild to severe and are pretty challenging to diagnose. That is why it is essential to understand what signs to look for and when to seek the help of a professional healthcare expert. This post lists the five most common digestive conditions and the signs and discomforts people may experience when affected by them.

Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a digestive condition that leads to inflammation and ulcers in the colon (large intestine) and the rectum. While the disease’s exact cause is unknown, it is thought to be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. A person’s risk of developing ulcerative colitis increases if they have a family history of the disease, have been diagnosed with autoimmune disorders in the past, or are dealing with certain infections.

Ulcerative colitis patients can go through periods of remission and relapse. Moreover, the severity can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, one may experience complications like intestinal bleeding, bowel obstruction, and an increased risk of colon cancer. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose the problem on time. A few symptoms to watch out for are fever, fatigue, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, dehydration, and abdominal pain and cramping.

Managing ulcerative colitis typically involves a combination of doctor-recommended treatments, lifestyle changes, and, in severe cases, surgery to remove the colon.

Gallstones
Gallstones are solid deposits in the gallbladder, a tiny organ in the upper right of the abdomen that helps digest fats. The stones can vary in size and number and can be composed of various substances, such as cholesterol, bilirubin, and calcium salts.

The risk factors for gallstones include having a family history of gallstones, following a sedentary lifestyle, and certain health conditions like diabetes, cirrhosis, and Crohn’s disease. Additionally, pregnant women are more likely to develop gallstones. A few symptoms of this disorder are jaundice, fever, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and abdominal pain.

Depending on the severity, doctors may recommend treatments to dissolve the stones or surgery to remove the gallbladder. In some cases, nutritional and lifestyle changes may be necessary to manage the symptoms after removing the organ.

Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a severe and chronic health condition that affects the liver. It causes irreversible scarring in the organ as fat and collagen replace functional cells. The ailment is mainly caused by poor lifestyle habits and specific health conditions that damage the liver. Unfortunately, cirrhosis does not improve with time; it worsens, leading to compromised health and potential risks like heart failure and cancer.

This liver disease can lead to numerous symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, confusion or difficulty concentrating, abdominal pain and tenderness, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet. One may also experience jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), personality changes and mood swings, and easy bleeding and bruising.

Cirrhosis can be best managed by visiting a health expert and using the remedies prescribed. Doctors usually do not treat the ailment directly but target the underlying cause. Lifestyle choices like eating nutrient-dense foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding unsafe health practices can help slow the disease’s progression and play a pivotal role in managing the symptoms in the long run.

Crohn’s disease
This condition can lead to inflammation in various body areas, but it most often affects the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease causes the immune system to attack healthy cells in the tract, leading to inflammation, ulcers, and other complications. Inflammation can occur anywhere along the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine.

A few common symptoms of Crohn’s disease are diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, fatigue, reduced appetite, rectal bleeding, abscesses (collection of pus), nausea, vomiting, and joint pain and inflammation.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
GERD is a prevalent digestive condition that occurs when stomach acid moves upward into the esophagus, causing heartburn and indigestion. Individuals can relieve the symptoms with simple treatments but lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals and elevating the head while sleeping, can also help prevent stomach acid from traveling upward.

GERD can lead to more severe health conditions, including breathing complications, esophagus damage, and even cancer, if left untreated. Therefore, anyone with symptoms should speak with their healthcare provider as soon as possible for proper treatment. A few indicators are chest pain, burning sensation in the throat, difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and indigestion.

How to prevent digestive conditions?
Here are some tips to prevent these disorders and keep the digestive system healthy:

Eat healthy meals
A nutrition plan that includes various fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help promote digestive health. Avoiding high-fat, high-sugar, and processed items is also advisable.

Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water and other fluids may help the digestive system function properly. One must aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

Exercise regularly
Regular physical activity can promote digestion and relieve constipation. Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of activity five days a week.

Manage stress
Stress can affect digestion, so finding ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or relaxation techniques, can be beneficial.

Limit caffeine consumption
Caffeine in tea and coffee can irritate the digestive system, so limiting or avoiding these beverages may be helpful.

Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and promote digestive health. They can also be acquired by eating foods high in probiotics, such as yogurt or kefir.

Digestive conditions can significantly impact a person’s quality of life by triggering numerous symptoms, from cramping and abdominal pain to changes in appetite and nausea. Understanding the indicators of each condition can ensure timely diagnosis by a health professional. Often, serious diseases require further investigation into their causes and treatments. Therefore, one must learn as much as possible about their symptoms and not delay approaching an expert.

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Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

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Identifying and Managing Psoriatic Arthritis

The occurrence of red, scaly skin patches and intense joint pain is usually indicative of psoriatic arthritis. It's a form of inflammatory arthritis with symptoms such as joint stiffness, swelling in the wrists and fingers, fatigue, and back pain. Knowing its causes and treatments can help manage this potentially disabling disease. This blog will discuss what causes psoriatic arthritis, how to identify its symptoms, and which foods may benefit people with psoriatic arthritis. What triggers psoriatic arthritis?Psoriatic arthritis may affect joints such as the spine, fingers, toes, and hips. It's normally diagnosed through simple lab tests to detect inflammation and antibody levels in the body. Its symptoms are stiff joints, body pain, swelling in different body parts, tiny dents in nails, inflammation, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and fatigue. The condition may be triggered by severe stress, infections, certain treatments, the use of tobacco, injuries or wounds. If you experience these symptoms and need psoriatic arthritis relief, you must consult your healthcare provider immediately. The following are a few methods of treatment for psoriatic arthritis:UV light (therapy for severe cases)Anti-inflammatory remedies (to help alleviate the pain)Biologics (a process to block inflammation-causing proteins)Surgery (to replace a joint with a metal counterpart)6 foods to manage psoriatic arthritisWalnutsWalnuts are a healthful addition to any meal plan, especially for those managing psoriatic arthritis. Studies have shown that consuming walnuts can reduce inflammation in the body. It can be beneficial in providing relief to joint pain and other physical symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis. Walnuts are also rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, which help protect health by reducing disease-causing free radicals. These radicals are unstable atoms that damage other atoms and cause inflammation. Additionally, high omega-3 and vitamin E levels in the nut may help reduce the pain and stiffness usually felt when dealing with this autoimmune disorder. You can blend a handful of walnuts into breakfast smoothies, top your pancakes with crushed walnuts, or eat them whole.Dark chocolateDark chocolate has health benefits for those struggling with psoriatic arthritis. It is a natural source of polyphenols (antioxidants) that can reduce inflammation and decrease joint swelling caused by psoriatic arthritis. Additionally, dark chocolate contains omega-3 fatty acids, giving it anti-inflammatory properties to help manage symptoms of the condition. Eating dark chocolate can improve overall health by strengthening the immune system and aiding digestion. To reap its health benefits and manage psoriatic arthritis symptoms, enjoy two ounces or less of dark chocolate daily to ensure you're not over-consuming sugar.Brown riceBrown rice is an incredibly healthful food that may promote healing for those with psoriatic arthritis. This grain is full of complex carbohydrates known to break down slowly into glucose, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, providing an influx of energy throughout the body. In addition to this metabolic benefit, brown rice provides a rich source of fiber, which helps maintain satiety while keeping digestion regular.  Additionally, brown rice contains flavonoids that can help protect cells from damage caused by arthritis and other environmental factors. Finally, consuming brown rice regularly gives your body a powerful dose of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, and manganese. These minerals are essential in managing symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis, such as joint pain and swelling.Flax seedsFlax seeds can be a great asset in managing psoriatic arthritis. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flax seeds have been proven to reduce inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis and aid in pain management. Moreover, their lignans, which are plant compounds with antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory properties, can help counteract some of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Regular consumption of this food item may even slow down the progression of psoriatic arthritis. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, flax seeds provide other health benefits such as improved digestion and a better functioning immune system.Dark berriesDark berries, such as blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and acai berries, are a great addition to any diet to help manage psoriatic arthritis. These fruits provide a wide range of essential vitamins (such as C and K) and minerals (such as iron and manganese), which can be easily consumed fresh or frozen. As dark berries possess anti-inflammatory properties, they work wonders in relieving the painful symptoms associated with the condition. Furthermore, the antioxidants in them can inhibit certain molecules responsible for causing inflammation. Whether you choose blueberries blended into your favorite smoothie or sprinkle a handful of blackberries atop your cereal in the morning, incorporating dark berries into your health regimen can help promote health and treat psoriatic arthritis!Ground spicesGround spices can benefit people with psoriatic arthritis as they contain health-promoting properties. Curcumin, an active component of ground turmeric and curry powder, contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can reduce inflammation. It also helps to prevent oxidative damage (oxygen imbalance), which is linked to psoriatic arthritis flare-ups. Consuming curcumin supplements significantly reduces joint pain and swelling associated with this health condition. Nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, available in some ground spices such as ginger, rosemary, and turmeric, can also help boost immunity, improving health over time. In addition, ground cinnamon could help alleviate symptoms due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, induce blood circulation in affected joints, and reduce redness and stiffness. Ground cloves may relieve chronic joint pains due to their analgesic (pain-relief) properties. In conclusionRecognizing the signs and understanding potential causes of psoriatic arthritis can help you accurately identify them and take proactive steps to manage your symptoms. Eating anti-inflammatory foods such as salmon and certain fruits while avoiding processed foods can help reduce inflammation and improve your well-being. Exercises such as swimming or pilates might be great for managing your pain. Additionally, working with physical therapists can provide further support if needed. Above all, remember to speak with your physician, who can assess your situation more accurately and make personalized recommendations.

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