By Dr. Harry J. Thomas “Suffering in silence” is commonly shared by those afflicted with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Sufferers opt not to mention their physical pain to friends, family, or coworkers, much less seek expert medical attention before something like an ER visit or hospitalization occurs. They bend to social stigma against acknowledging and discussing “bathroom diseases.” But as World IBD Day on May 19th approaches, those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face a ... [Read More]
GI Disorders
Do At-Home Genetic Tests Offer Reliable Disease Screening?
Genetic testing is no longer a rarity. Once only ordered by doctors, genetic tests are now more accessible and affordable than ever before. It’s not uncommon to know someone who has recently given – or received – a DNA testing kit as gift. And it’s no wonder. The sheer number of testing kits available directly to consumers has grown like wildfire in recent years. The most well-known among them is 23andMe, which offers a health and ancestry saliva-based DNA test for about $200. Other companies ... [Read More]
Have You Heard About Austin’s First Spin4 Crohn’s & Colitis Cures Event?
Austin is teaming up with Spin4 Crohn’s & Colitis Cures to hold its first-ever cycling event! Come join us for this exciting day of fun, athletics, and giving back. An estimated 3 million Americans live with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These are chronic and debilitating digestive diseases that affect the health and quality of life of so many around us. Spin4 Crohn’s & Colitis Cures holds indoor cycling events across the country to help support individuals living with these ... [Read More]
Is Bloating a Cause for Concern?
We’ve all had that bloated, uncomfortable “full belly” feeling at some point. Most of the time, it’s perfectly normal and no cause for concern. On rare occasions, it could be an indication of a more serious problem. Unless your bloating is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and weight loss, it’s probably nothing to worry about. Most of the time, diet and other simple reasons such as eating a big meal or too much salt can explain the bloating you’re experiencing. Let’s ... [Read More]
Do Processed Foods Cause Gastrointestinal Disorders?
It may surprise no one that the foods we eat (and don’t eat) affect the way our digestive system functions. For example, too much bread and not enough fiber can lead to constipation rather quickly. If your diet has consistently been undersupplied of certain proteins, minerals, or other needed nutrients, it can create disorder in your system. This isn’t just a problem for your digestive system; it can also cause problems with your skin, immune system, and respiratory system. Common causes of ... [Read More]
