Behind the stomach and next to the small intestine is where the pancreas is located. It delivers insulin and glucagon, which like insulin assists the body in controlling how it processes food and energy. The pancreas also aids digestion by releasing enzymes into the small intestine. Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed (“-itis” = “inflammation”). This often occurs when gallstones block the pancreas’ ability to release enzymes into the intestines. There are two types of ... [Read More]
Gastroenterology
What Are Gallstones?
If you are feeling a strange pain in your upper back, right shoulder, or upper-right side or center of your abdomen, then you may have gallstones. These are hard deposits of cholesterol or digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder. You have a greater propensity for developing gallstones if you are overweight or eat a high-cholesterol diet. You can also easily get gallstones if you have diabetes, Crohn’s disease, or various blood disorders. Let’s talk about how gallstones form and ... [Read More]
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a natural sugar that is common in dairy products. Lactose intolerance is the inability to breakdown lactose. The condition is due to the body’s inability to create a sufficient amount of lactase, an enzyme that is supplied by the small intestine. Lactase’ job is to break down lactose. When the small intestine doesn’t make enough lactase, lactose goes undigested as it moves into the large intestine. Interaction between undigested lactose and bacteria in the large intestine cause ... [Read More]
How Can You Improve Your Microbiome?
The gut microbiome consists of a variety of bacteria that thrive within your intestines. Unlike the ones that give you sicknesses, these bacteria are beneficial to the health of your digestive system. However, the gut microbiome is vulnerable to damage when you eat unhealthily, which can lead to poor intestinal health. Like the rest of your body, your microbiome deserves care and attention. It pays to know how to improve your gut microbiome if you want to keep your digestive tract healthy. Eat ... [Read More]
What Can Heartburn Be a Sign Of?
Heartburn is a very unpleasant feeling that is characterized as a burning pain in your chest area. Severe heartburn can make you feel nauseous and want to vomit. The pain is usually worse after eating when lying down or in a bending position. Spicy foods, citrus products, tomato products, fried and fatty foods, and caffeinated drinks can trigger heartburn symptoms. The occasional heartburn is normal, especially if you can link it to the food you recently ate. It can be effectively managed ... [Read More]
