IBS and IBD – how are these two conditions different? Many people incorrectly assume both these conditions are the same. IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome and IBD stands for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. They are two distinct conditions with causes and symptoms that sometimes overlap. Determining which of the two conditions you have is important. Otherwise, you won't be able to find treatments that will actually help you get relief. Let’s talk about IBS and IBD to clear the ... [Read More]
gastrointestinal disorders
How Is Pancreatitis Treated?
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]
The Importance of Digestive Health
The digestive system is made of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is responsible for breaking down foods and liquids into their basic chemical components like fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. The body then absorbs them as nutrients, which can be used as energy to build and repair cells and help you function. The role of the digestive system begins when food enters the body and passes through the esophagus and the stomach where digestion starts. The small ... [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]
