Disorders of the stomach are very common and induce a significant amount of morbidity and suffering in the population. These problems occur for long periods and cause prolonged suffering, time off work and a poor quality of life. Over 20 million Canadian suffering from digestive problems each year. Suffering from stomach problems disrupts an individuals\' personal as well as professional life. Many people find talking about stomach problems and their symptoms quite embarrassing. Because of this fact, the extent of digestive disease in the Canadian population is more than likely under-estimated.
The human digestive system is a complex series of organs and glands that processes food. The digestive system includes: the esophagus, liver and biliary system, stomach, pancreas, colon, small intestine, appendix, rectum and anus. If there is a problem in one or more areas of the digestive system, it can impair digestion and cause disturbing symptoms.
Types of Digestive Diseases
You have probably heard of some digestive diseases that are quite prevalent in society including: diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lactose intolerance and peptic ulcers. However, there are a number of digestive disorders that you may have not heard of including: Crohn\'s disease, colon and esophageal cancer, diverticular disease, dyspepsia, GERD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, and Barrett\'s esophagus. There is a wide array of digestive problems that you can suffer, sometime without any obvious symptoms.
Symptoms of Digestive Diseases
Symptoms of digestive diseases vary among individuals, and in many people there are no symptoms.However, the most common symptoms include: - Frequent heartburn, regurgitation, acidic taste in your mouth - Bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, cramps - Rectal ble
When Should You See Your Doctor?
If you have persistent diarrhea or vomiting, unexplained weight loss, extreme fatigue, persistent fever, frequent bloody stool, bloody diarrhea, sleep disturbances due to abdominal pain among other symptoms, you should speak to your doctor right away. It may mean that something more serious is going on. To rule our colon cancer, or other problems with your colon, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy.
Furthermore, colon cancer has the second highest death rate of all cancers in Canada. It is therefore very important to get regular screening for colon and rectal cancers. The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology and the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation recommend routine colonoscopy testing, even if an individual doesn\'t have risk factors for colon cancer. The current recommendation for individuals without risk factors is a colonoscopy once every 10 years after the age of 50. If colon or rectal cancer is detected early, there is a better chance of survival, so get tested!
Pro and Prebiotics for Better Digestion
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live primarily in our digestive system. Many people are familiar with yogurt, a food that ideally contains these kind of beneficial microorganisms. Lactobacillus is just one of a number of species that are beneficial to our health. Probiotics also come in supplement form. The concept of prebiotics is pretty simple. Prebiotics are very special fibers that are the food for the good bacteria that live in your digestive system. It nourishes them and helps them grow. The health of the human digestive tract is a much more important determinant of vitality than most people realize. Though it runs deep through the center of the body. Probiotics support the small intestine to promote healthy immunity, inhibit yeasts and enhance digestion of milk products. They also benefit the large intestine as the first-choice, safe colon cleanse product that supports healthy liver function.
Fiber for Better Digestion
Fiber is good for you, and so are the complex carbohydrates that come with the fiber. Even if you\'re not experiencing digestive problems, you should still consume fiber to support better digestion. There are two types of fiber:
Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion. This slows digestion. Soluble fiber is found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Soluble fiber may help lower cholesterol, which can help prevent heart disease. Sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal, nuts, beans and apples.
2)Insoluble fiber is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. It adds bulk to the stool and appears to help food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines. Sources of insoluble fiber include seeds and grains.
It is important to consume both types of fiber for better digestion.
If you are suffering from digestive symptoms, including stomach problems, don\'t be embarrassed; speak to your doctor to learn lifestyle modifications that you can make to minimize the disturbance to your life.
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