Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating digestive tract disorders. This can include problems ranging from the passage of gas, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome to even colon cancer, and more. While asking them certain questions can be embarrassing, one must not shy away from them. Instead, one must enquire about the issues to receive more information. Keep reading to know more about these questions and why they must be asked. Is passing a lot of gas an issue? Usually, one may release gas in the form of burps or even farts, but most people do not know that this gas forms due to many reasons. While the passage of gas is completely natural, sometimes when it builds up, it can lead to bloating and abdominal pain. This often occurs when the patient regularly eats fatty foods, has an increased level of stress, eats too quickly, or has irritable bowel syndrome. In such cases, gastroenterologists may provide a diagnosis of the underlying issue and develop a treatment plan. How do I know if my stool is normal? Typically, stool can be of different colors, shapes, and sizes. It must be log-like and have cracks on its surface. This usually indicates a healthy digestive system. However, when its consistency is watery or fluffy, it means that the person is sick, has food poisoning, or has an intestinal or digestive problem. In addition to the above, poop that is greyish, blackish, or even reddish can indicate issues in the body that may require treatment. What can cause stomach discomfort? In most cases, slight stomach discomfort may be nothing to worry about. But if the pain persists it could signify serious health issues. Additionally, experiencing bloating or diarrhea can be a problem. When one consults a gastroenterologist, the specialist will first go through the symptoms and deduce the origin of the problem.

The prostate is a small, rubbery gland in the male reproductive system that produces seminal fluid. The seminal fluid mixes with the sperm from the testes and helps it travel and survive. An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)) is a common condition where the prostate obstructs the urethra and affects urine flow from the bladder. This article has listed five foods and treatments to help treat and manage an enlarged prostate. Sesame seeds Sesame seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds contain good levels of zinc that get absorbed by the body. Since people affected by BPH have lower zinc levels, this food can help replenish the mineral. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce the risk of BPH. Eating cooked tomatoes is known to curb the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and reduce any prostatic inflammation. Consume lycopene-rich foods with healthy fats to enhance their healing effects. Salmon Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats praised for their inflammation-reducing properties. Other fish include tuna and mackerel, which are also efficient omega-3 sources. Vegetables Leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants and minerals required for the body to function properly. Add veggies like bell peppers, onions, spinach, garlic, and broccoli to your meals for a healthier prostate. Berries Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries possess high levels of antioxidants. These properties protect the body against oxidative damage and fight free radicals, thus protecting the prostate from potential illness. Treatments Other than the foods mentioned above, one can even try out these prescriptions and supplements to reduce BPH symptoms. Prosvent Prostate This treatment is made from natural ingredients such as pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto. With 60 capsules in a bottle, it promotes a healthy prostate and bladder function. It also helps improve the person’s lifestyle.

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the patient’s bones become brittle and porous. This increases the chances of getting bone fractures and experiencing joint pain. Sometimes bones become so brittle that coughing or bending over causes a fracture. Although osteoporosis does not have a permanent cure, there are ways to manage its symptoms and strengthen weakened bones. Listed in this article are some of the steps that can be taken to promote bone health naturally. Opt for calcium-rich foods Calcium plays an integral part in the maintenance of bone density for osteoporosis patients, which is why it needs to be incorporated in every meal. Dairy products are an ideal source of calcium. However, calcium-fortified food options like cereals, yogurt, juices, and more can be equally resourceful. Include physical activity In our fast-paced lives, physical activity often takes a backseat. This lack of daily physical activity can prove to be a concern, especially for patients with osteoporosis. Strength training or weight-bearing exercises like swimming, walking, running, hiking, and more are recommended by health care professionals. Eat vitamin-rich foods While vitamin D helps the body improve calcium absorption, vitamin K2 ensures that the absorbed calcium is not lost. Both these crucial components can be obtained from food. However, in some cases, osteoporosis patients might need to be prescribed supplements to overcome vitamin D deficiency. Avoid carbonated drinks One of the negative outcomes of sodas and other fizzy beverages is the loss of bone strength. It is believed that the phosphoric acid present in these drinks hinders the body’s absorption of calcium and results in weaker bones and decreased bone density. Limit sugar intake Unchecked sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, decreased bone density, and increased risk of osteoporosis, all of which needs to be avoided in order to promote good bone health.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder that progresses well into adulthood. ADHD mainly affects a patient’s ability to pay attention, control their impulsiveness, or avoid being extremely overactive. But it is one of the few neurodevelopmental disorders that can be treated with prescriptions, therapy, and even a combination of natural remedies and the following lifestyle changes. Here are the best suggested natural treatments for ADHD. Behavioral therapy Therapists can help teach how one can deal with mood changes and improve the overall outlook. Suggestions include creating a productive routine, learning to organize, and better managing distractions. All this can be done by bringing about a discipline in lifestyle. Exploring new opportunities, setting goals, and managing expectations can enforce positive thinking. Monitor foods and avoid allergens There are many substances found in processed foods that have been linked to increased hyperactivity among young children. It is advisable to avoid foods and beverages that are laced with artificial coloring or flavoring. In addition, immediate medical attention is advisable if the patient shows symptoms of food allergies. Chemical preservatives, certain dairy products, and even natural fruits/vegetables containing salicylates are trigger allergens to avoid with ADHD. Physical activity Exercising or any form of physical activity can help the body lower cortisol levels and decrease stress. Also, exercising helps the body release endorphins, commonly known as feel-good hormones, crucial for regulating mood and preventing trigger symptoms linked to ADHD. Physical activity also improves concentration and focus, enabling patients to better navigate daily tasks without getting distracted or highly frustrated. Alternative therapies Research suggests meditation techniques can further help boost mood, bring about discipline, and help increase awareness. Meditation and deep breathing can help the mind and body unite and allows a person to feel more conscious and connected with oneself.

The metabolic functions of the body are regulated by the thyroid gland through the production of hormones. When affected by thyroid cancer, one could experience health complications and should seek immediate treatment to remove the tumor. However, when treating the condition, it is critical to make better food choices. This can help reduce symptoms and avoid interfering with the treatment. So, here are some foods to choose from while undergoing thyroid cancer treatment: Vegetables Fresh vegetables, especially cruciferous and green vegetables, are crucial components of all meal plans. They are rich in magnesium and minerals, making them excellent nutrient sources. Green vegetables also help improve metabolism, particularly in the thyroid gland. So, people with the condition should opt for foods like spinach and lettuce. These vegetables can also help with symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat due to their high magnesium content. Fruits and berries Many fruits, such as strawberries, tomatoes, raspberries, bananas, and apples, are high in antioxidants. These help with thyroid function and help fight toxic substances that can worsen thyroid-related issues. Thes fruits also support the body’s ability to stay healthy and fight diseases. Nuts Almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of magnesium. These nuts are also high in plant protein, vitamin B, vitamin E, and other minerals that aid thyroid gland function. So, one should opt for these foods when undergoing thyroid cancer treatment. Seafood Seafood like shrimp, crab, and fish provide energy to the body, keeping it healthy. They also contain various thyroid-friendly nutrients, such as iodine, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, B vitamins, and selenium. Fish contains lean protein, amino acids, magnesium, and vitamin B. However, one should consult their doctor before opting for seafood, as some treatment procedures call for low-iodine meal plans. Egg whites Egg whites are high in protein and can help people maintain their strength and recover quicker when undergoing cancer treatment.

Having pearly white teeth and maintaining them is easier said than done. In order to keep them looking good, one must ensure proper oral hygiene. Moreover, maintaining good oral hygiene can aid in avoiding any dental problems and their associated treatment. There are numerous options available that can help one get the perfect smile. While some options are natural, one can also opt for other dental treatment methods to achieve the goal. The perfect smile makes up of healthy teeth and gums. Therefore, if your want to keep your pearly white teeth stain-free, and perfectly aligned, here are four valuable tips that can help you achieve the goal. Brush and floss regularly Following a routine of brushing and flossing regularly may help one maintain oral health at an optimum level. Furthermore, using good quality brushes for brushing will also help get rid of the dirt and sediments on the teeth. Additionally, flossing also prevents bacterial growth or infections in the oral cavity. Hence, experts advise brushing and flossing after every meal to get rid of the food particles stuck between the teeth. Avoid eating many sweets Eating sweets regularly can lead to dental problems such as tooth decay and tooth discoloration. This happens due to the effect of sugary substances. One can combat these issues by avoiding sugary foods such as candies, gummies, and even carbonated drinks. Furthermore, one can also opt for teeth whitening procedures, which are effective on both extrinsic and intrinsic staining. Some whitening treatments include in-office bleaching procedures and the use of products suggested by the dentist. Avoid foods that can stain Caffeinated drinks such as coffee can have adverse effects on the teeth. This includes staining caused due to coffee’s acidic properties, leading to yellow stains on the teeth. In addition, one must also avoid other foods that can possibly stain the teeth, such as red fruits and tea.

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that impacts the quality of the everyday life of an individual. Excessive sweating can lead those affected to feel embarrassed, sad, anxious, and angry. To combat these emotional and mental feelings, one can bring some effective changes in everyday life. Mentioned below are some of the lifestyle tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine to cope with hyperhidrosis. Let’s have a look at some. Exercise Working out is a great way to help reduce stress and maintain physical health. People with hyperhidrosis should not feel embarrassed while working out, as it is normal for them to sweat during intense physical workouts. Also, regular exercise will help you keep your body in shape and help reduce sweat in normal situations. Wear light and breathable clothing Out of the many lifestyle tips for hyperhidrosis, this one is about paying attention to what you wear. Natural fibers like cotton and linen will help keep sweat to a minimum. Thick fabrics like flannel can trap sweat which can worsen your sweating. People with hyperhidrosis should wear light and breathable fabrics, which can reduce the body temperature, and in turn, stop sweat. Stay hydrated It is important for people with hyperhidrosis to maintain an adequate level of hydration. Sweating leads to the loss of electrolytes from your body. It is generally recommended to drink eight glasses of water a day; however, people with hyperhidrosis may need to drink more. Diet A change in diet can help reduce sweat levels. Certain foods and drinks can trigger sweat production. Eliminating or limiting them from your diet can help in sweat reduction. Limit the consumption of spicy food, highly processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which are some foods that can cause excessive sweating. Keep your feet dry You should wear sandals that allow easy air circulation in your feet, preventing them from sweating.

Hemophilia is a rare, hereditary bleeding condition in which blood may not clot normally when wounded. People with this illness have prolonged or spontaneous bleeding and bruising after an accident, surgery, or other injuries. Even minimal trauma can cause continuous bleeding in hemophilia patients. It can also result in internal bleeding in joints, muscles, brain, or other organs. This article throws light on the ways to manage hemophilia: Treatment options Recombinant factor VIII (8) concentrate The most effective technique to manage hemophilia is to restore the deficient blood clotting factor, allowing the blood to clot normally. Earlier all factor replacement products were made from human plasma. But in 1992, the FDA approved the recombinant factor VIII (8) concentrate, which is genetically engineered through DNA technology and used to treat hemophilia. Hemlibra® This may also be used to manage it. It works on replacing the function of factor VIII (8) rather than replacing the said missing clot directly. This treatment product is given to patients through an injection. Kovaltry® Another treatment option is Kovaltry. It helps in replacing the missing clotting factor in adults and children. Kovaltry ® reduces the frequency of bleeding episodes and is sometimes given after surgery. Foods to eat Hemophilia patients should fill their plates with fruits and vegetables. Dark and green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, kale, bok choy, and fruits like strawberries, pears, and apples are excellent sources of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Include orange juice, lean red meat, poultry, fortified cereals, raisins, and apricots as they are rich in calcium and iron. Foods to avoid Avoid oily foods especially deep-fried meats, chips, and junk foods, as they contain saturated fats, which are unhealthy for the body. High sugar items like cookies, pie, soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, and chocolates should also be restricted. Fish oil and vitamin E supplements should not be consumed by hemophilia A patients as they can prevent the clumping of platelets.

People begin to get worried about the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as they age. Getting flawless skin is a common goal, and one can find plenty of advice online and in magazines on how to achieve it. However, one does not always need expensive products to boost their skin health. In fact, avoiding common skincare mistakes could help prevent premature aging. So here are a few things to avoid for youthful skin: Not using a sunscreen Skin diseases, including skin cancer, are brought on by over-exposure to harmful UV rays of the sun. According to dermatologists, about 90% of premature wrinkles could be caused by sun exposure. So, it is essential to use sunscreen even when one is outdoors for a short duration. Also, one should use sunscreen irrespective of the weather, i.e., even on cloudy days. One should use sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Moreover, it is not just the heat from the sun that can cause premature aging, regularly using hot showers, saunas, and hot tubs can also cause skin damage. So, using lukewarm or tepid water to wash your face is the best solution. Unhealthy food choices Most health issues, including skin diseases , can be prevented by making better food choices. If one is regularly always eating junk and unhealthy food, then the body does not get the nutrients it needs. This deficiency is reflected on the skin surface, which might be prone to inflammation and acne breakouts. So, for improved skin health, one should opt for healthy and balanced meals. This should include food items that contain nutrients such as vitamin E, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and carotene, as these are good for the skin. One can find these nutrients in fish, berries, honey, nuts, and yogurt, among other foods.

Food plays an important role in maintaining daily health. Without proper nutrition, the body’s immune system will not be able to handle chronic disorders. Essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients sourced from fresh foods and healthy cooking techniques can even help prevent and reduce the risk of cancer to some extent. The following changes in the food regime can help maintain a nutritional balance and improve quality of life, especially during treatment. Healthy fruits and vegetables Cancer mainly worsens due to the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules destroy healthy cells in the vicinity and aggravate the symptoms of different types of cancer. Vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash are rich in carotenoids that promote anticarcinogenic benefits. Broccoli, spinach, and kale are also healthy options to consider among leafy greens. Additionally, citrus, lycopene, and antioxidant-rich fruits like orange, tomatoes, and assorted berries, especially strawberries, can lower the effect of oxidative damage. Certain polyphenols and allium compounds found in garlic, onions, leeks, chives, herbs, and other spices also help lower the risk of cancer-causing free radicals. Foods rich in fiber Constipation is a common discomfort experienced by many people during cancer treatment as a side effect of certain medications. Including more fiber in one’s daily food habits can help promote better digestion and bowel movements. Dietary fiber can be sourced from a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts. Kidneys, lentils, split peas, and chickpeas are loaded in these fibers. Barley, corn, bulgur, oats, spelt, and rye are excellent options in whole grains. These grains add bulk to the stools to promote better evacuation from the digestive tract. It is possible to introduce a lot of dietary fibers during breakfast, one of the most important meals of the day. Foods to avoid Eliminate most types of processed foods that contain unhealthy saturated and trans fats.

Peptic ulcer affects about 4.6 million Americans every year. Peptic ulcer results in open sores forming on the upper portion of the small intestine and the inside lining of the stomach. The first one is known as the duodenal ulcer, and the second type is known as a gastric ulcer. Read on to know more about its symptoms, causes, and risks associated with this condition. Symptoms of peptic ulcer If you feel a burning pain in the stomach, then it can be a sign of peptic ulcers, as it is the most common symptom of the disease. The pain can get worse at night or between meals. The acid in your stomach makes it worse. Other than the pain, some other common symptoms of peptic ulcers include feeling bloated or full, intolerance to fatty food, nausea, and heartburn. Apart from these, the other signs may include: Vomiting with the presence of blood Presence of dark blood in the stool Trouble in breathing Feeling faint Nausea Sudden weight loss Change in appetite Taking acid blockers can relieve the pain temporarily. If it keeps coming back, you need to contact your doctor. Causes of peptic ulcer Stomach conditions may have a variety of causes, which is true for peptic ulcers too. Due to different reasons, the acid present in your digestive tract may start eating away at the inner surface of the small intestine or the stomach, which leads to the ulcer. Below is a list of the most common reasons that lead to this behavior. A bacterium The insides of your small intestine and stomach are covered by a protective layer called the mucus layer. A very common bacteria called helicobacter pylori lives in this layer. Sometimes, this bacterium can result in inflammation of the inner layer of your stomach, which eventually leads to ulcers.

Constipation means difficulty passing stools. A person suffering from constipation may experience strain and pass lump and hard stools. It is one of the most common health conditions in the country, with at least 14% of the population suffering from it. Sadly, this condition can lead to other complications, like hemorrhoids. But a few foods can help relieve the condition. Let’s take a look at some foods that can help relieve constipation. Apples Apples are a great source of fiber if eaten with their skin. They contain soluble fiber that is mainly in the form of dietary fiber called pectin. Gut bacteria rapidly ferment pectin, and this retains water in the colon, softening the stool and providing relief from constipation. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits such as grapefruit, orange, and mandarins are also a good source of fiber. Apart from pectin, they also contain a good amount of vitamin C and a flavonol called naringenin. A combination of these can ease constipation. Prunes Prunes or dried plums have been long used as a remedy for constipation. Like apple and other citrus fruits, prunes also contain high amounts of fiber. These produce short-chain fatty acids that help in increasing stool weight. Sweet potato Apart from being a great alternative to potatoes, sweet potatoes are rich in an insoluble fiber called cellulose and lignin that help add bulk to the stools, aiding easy bowel movement. Peas and lentils These contain a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber which means a bowl-full of peas and lentils can add bulk to stools and soften them for easy passage. Peas and lentils can be incorporated into meals in the form of salad or soups. Moreover, they can even be added to ground meat dishes for extra bulk and taste. Additionally, for those who are considering trying supplements to relieve constipation, Senokot ® offers a range of laxative products in the form of gummies and tea.