Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) broadly refers to chronic inflammation of the intestines. It’s often conflated with a noninflammatory condition called irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Both can cause diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and cramping. Although the two disorders share similar names and symptoms, they are different conditions requiring different treatments. The exact causes of IBD and IBS are unknown. Researchers believe they are the result of an autoimmune reaction. Stress ... [Read More]
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The Complete Guide to Hepatitis C
The liver is the body’s “food processor.” It tackles everything you ingest, aids digestion, stores nutrients, regulates various body functions and clears out toxins. Hepatitis C – commonly referred to as hep C – is a contagious, blood-borne, viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. The condition can be mild to severe and last for a few weeks, or it may become chronic. Acute hepatitis C is a short-term infection that develops within six months of exposure. ... [Read More]
How a Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life
Colorectal cancer – popularly referred to as colon cancer – is the third-most common form of cancer among both men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. It is also the second deadliest. However, it is also one of the most preventable. If everyone age 50 and older had regular screenings, up to 60 percent of colon cancer deaths could be prevented, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many cases of colon cancer can be ... [Read More]
Hep C: Speaking Out About “The Silent Killer”
According to HepCHope.com, a staggering 1 in 30 Baby Boomers has Hepatitis C. That’s 3.2 million people. These numbers are just an estimate, as many affected people are unaware due to the disease’s dormant symptoms; most don’t become perceptible until many years after being infected. The most chronic blood-borne infection in the United States, Hep C can lead to severe liver damage, cancer – and even death if left untreated. As a precaution, the Centers for Disease Control is advising all ... [Read More]
10 Signs of Celiac You Shouldn’t Ignore
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed that gluten-free items have taken over prime real estate on the shelves at every American grocery store. And while some people dabble in gluten-free cuisine as a fad, for the 3 million US citizens living with celiac disease – gluten is the enemy. Targeting those who are genetically predisposed to it, this debilitating autoimmune disease ultimately leads to the malabsorption of nutrients. When wheat products are consumed, ... [Read More]
