Many people notice that their bowel habits change predictably throughout their monthly menstrual cycle. This shift in pattern is because the bowel is affected by period-related hormone changes. During each menstrual cycle, the body goes through many hormonal shifts. These changes affect the whole body, leading to familiar premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as mood […]
A recent investigation into the microbiome of bats finds that they follow different rules to other mammals. The authors wonder whether these differences might make them more susceptible to environmental changes. Share on PinterestA new paper investigates the gut bacteria of bats. Gut bacteria are vital to human health. Our resident microbes help us digest […]
An enema is an injection of liquid containing various substances into the rectum. The goal is to loosen stuck stool and encourage a bowel movement. A doctor may recommend an enema to treat constipation when first-line treatments have not worked. Homemade and commercial enemas can cause adverse effects. Most doctors recommend using laxatives and dietary […]
High levels of stress can cause or aggravate gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, stomach pain, and changes in bowel movements, which can include constipation. Researchers have identified various connections between the brain and stomach that may lead to constipation symptoms. A range of treatments and remedies can help relieve stress-related constipation. In this article, we […]
Bowel disorders affect the organs in the digestive system, including the small and large intestines. These conditions can prevent the body from properly digesting and absorbing nutrients from food. This can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation. If a person does not seek treatment for them, bowel disorders can contribute to other health complications, […]
Polyps are abnormal tissue growths. They can form in various parts of the body, including the gallbladder. Most people with gallbladder polyps do not experience symptoms. Doctors usually discover the polyps incidentally, on ultrasound or CT scans. Though some gallbladder polyps can develop into cancer, the vast majority are noncancerous. As long as the polyps […]
Scientists show that ultraviolet (UV) light exposure leads to changes in the gut microbiome, but only in volunteers who were deficient in vitamin D. Share on PinterestCan sunlight affect our gut microbiomes? There is plenty of evidence that links vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, to health outcomes. Living at higher latitudes, which means less exposure […]
New research in mice shows how microbes in the intestines can influence the ability to unlearn fear responses. The study yields detailed clues on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that connect the gut and the brain. Researchers have examined the role of gut microbes in alleviating fear memories in mice. Over the past 10–20 years, […]
New research presents the results of a trial that used nanoparticles to increase tolerance to gluten in people with celiac disease. People with celiac disease currently have to avoid products that contain gluten, such as bread and pasta. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition affecting 1 in 141 people in the United States, and up […]
The bacterium Escherichia coli is normally present in both human and animal guts. However, some strains of E. coli have developed resistance to antibiotics and can cause dangerous infections. But how do these harmful bacteria end up infecting people? Share on PinterestA new study warns that humans come into contact with dangerous bacteria, mostly because […]