A full liquid diet means that a person eats no solid foods and only consumes liquids, such as soups, juices, and smoothies. For most people, it is a temporary measure and not a long-term nutritional strategy. Full liquids are different than clear liquids. On a clear liquid diet, a person can only have clear liquids, […]
GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
Gastroenterologists: What to know
A gastroenterologist is a medical professional who specializes in conditions that affect the organs and structures of the digestive system. Gastroenterologists diagnose, treat, and care for people with a range of gut-related illnesses. These include long-term conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and celiac disease. Share on PinterestA person may visit a gastroenterologist if […]
Treatment options for IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that can have a significant effect on a person’s quality of life. People who have IBS commonly report digestive symptoms, such as diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps. Some people experience additional symptoms, such as generalized body pain and poor social functioning. Doctors are still not sure […]
A guide to the best probiotics
If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. There are many different types of probiotic and many brands to choose from. For this reason, it can be difficult to know which probiotic is best for different situations. The best probiotics for a person can […]
Constipation and headaches at the same time
Constipation is the medical term for infrequent or hard-to-pass bowel movements. A person may have constipation if they have not had a bowel movement in 3 or more days, or if they need to strain very hard when they do have one. Sometimes, a person may experience a headache in addition to constipation. In some […]
Even ‘dead,’ this probiotic may be effective against inflammation
New research using roundworms and mice has shown that one probiotic of human origin does not have to be alive to reduce markers of inflammation and promote health. Share on PinterestEven when inactivated, a strain of Lactobacillus paracasei could reduce inflammation and boost health, a new study suggests. Probiotics are usually live, active bacteria that […]
What are the best foods for diverticulitis?
Diet can affect the symptoms of diverticulitis. Some foods can help prevent symptoms, while others may make a flare-up worse. According to an article in the journal Gastrenterology, diverticulitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal diagnoses in United States clinics. Medical treatment may include antibiotics or surgery. Doctors may recommend that people follow a […]
Constipation in breastfeeding babies: What to know
Constipation is uncommon in infancy, particularly in breastfed babies, but it can happen. Breastfed babies tend to have fewer episodes of constipation and diarrhea than formula-fed babies because breast milk is easier than formula to digest. In older children, constipation is common and accounts for about 3% of visits to pediatric outpatient clinics and up […]
What to know about proctitis
Proctitis refers to inflammation of the lining of the rectum. The rectum is a muscular tube at the lowest part of the large intestine. Waste passes here from the colon just before exiting through the anus. Inflammation of the rectal lining can cause pain, discharge, and other unusual symptoms. This inflammation has a range of […]
Lazy bowel: What to know
Some people use the term “lazy bowel” to refer to slowed digestion. Slowed digestion is a symptom of a condition rather than a condition in itself. A person who has slowed digestion may experience other symptoms, such as infrequent bowel movements, constipation, and straining. Read on to find out the causes of a lazy bowel […]