intermittent fasting

Why is Intermittent Fasting being considered to address IBS?

Intermittent fasting (or IF) is an eating pattern with periods or cycles of eating and fasting. Unlike regular meal times, people on an IF schedule fast for a specific number of hours and…

specific carbohydrate diet

What is the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD)?

The specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) is a nutritionally complete grain-free diet, low in sugar and lactose. It was developed by Dr. Sidney Haas, a pediatrician, in the 1920s as treatment for celiac disease….

What are 2 common kinds of thoughts that IBS can induce through symptoms?

Experiencing chronic symptoms, especially GI symptoms for months or years can negatively impact our thinking and attitude. Over time, even the most optimistic person may develop behaviors related to their symptoms that actually…

cognitive behavioral therapy

What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy originally developed and used to treat mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. CBT as a treatment tends to be short-term and collaborative….

What are the usual recommendations for management of IBS?

The recommendations for management of IBS should include information that explains the importance of self‑help in effectively managing IBS symptoms. This should include information on general lifestyle, physical activity, diet and symptom‑targeted medication….

What are the benefits of fermented foods on GI health and gut microbiota?

Fermented foods are defined as foods or beverages produced through controlled microbial growth, and the conversion of food components through enzymatic action. In recent years, the benefits of fermented foods have created a…

short-chain fatty acids

Why are short-chain fatty acids important for digestive health?

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are fatty acids with fewer than six carbon atoms. SCFAs are produced when dietary fiber is fermented in the colon. Macronutrient composition (carbohydrate, protein, or fat) of diets affects…

complications of crohn's disease

What are the complications of Crohn’s disease?

Complications of Crohn’s disease can include the following: Intestinal obstruction: Crohn’s disease can thicken the wall of the intestines. Over time, the thickened areas of the intestines can narrow, which can block the…

what is ulcerative colitis

What is ulcerative colitis and what causes it?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease and microscopic colitis are the other common IBDs. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease…

diet for celiac disease

What are considerations for diet for celiac disease?

A recommended diet for celiac disease is free of gluten (found in most cereal, grains, pasta, many processed foods), rye, and barley. Removing gluten from the diet will improve symptoms, help heal damage…

What is celiac disease

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease damages the small intestine. This digestive disorder is triggered by eating foods containing gluten. Gluten is a protein found naturally in wheat, barley, and rye, and is common in foods such…

Gut barrier

How well do you know your gut barrier?

The gut barrier is our first line of defense against harmful microbes in the GI tract. Its role in maintaining health and its contribution to immune response is an active topic of research….

Natural Herbs and Spices with Therapeutic Effects

Natural Herbs and Spices Today’s diets (sodas, sugar, corn syrup, etc.) and lifestyles (lack of sleep, stress, rushing through meals, etc.) can reduce the efficiency of our digestive system. It is important to…

5 Annoying Things You’ve had to Clarify About IBS

#1. IBS sounds like indigestion with some diarrhea or constipation. Reality: IBS is a lot more than some diarrhea or constipation. It can cause distress and have a significant negative impact on a…

sibo-diagnosis

SIBO diagnosis and implications

Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), also termed bacterial overgrowths, or small bowel bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SBBOS), is a disorder of excessive bacterial growth in the small intestine. Unlike the colon (or large bowel),…

difference between prebiotics and probiotics

What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

Ever heard the terms “prebiotics” and “probiotics” thrown around but weren’t quite sure what they meant? Both are essential for a healthy gut, but they work in very different ways. This post will…