Friday, August 15, 2008

Health Tips for August 15

Health Tip: Help Control Irritable Bowel

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic illness of the digestive tract. There are two main types: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says.

The agency offers these suggestions to help keep IBD under control:

* Take certain nutritional supplements. Discuss options with your doctor.
* Reduce the amount of dairy products in your diet.
* Eat a low-fat diet recommended by your doctor.
* Stay away from foods high in undigestible fiber, as well as highly seasoned foods.
* Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day.

Health Tip: Belching and Bloating

Gas and bloating are normal human functions that could be exacerbated by factors including diet and lifestyle.

The American College of Gastroenterology offers these suggestions to help prevent or ease gas and bloating:

* Eat slowly. And if you frequently have gas and bloating, avoid chewing gum and drinking carbonated beverages.
* Treat constipation, if present.
* Avoid too many foods that may be difficult to digest, including brussels sprouts, cabbage, beans and lentils.
* Avoid fiber supplements if you don't need them, as well as foods with sorbitol and fructose.
* Medications designed to relieve gas may provide some relief.
* Frequent belching may be a symptom of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), which should be treated without delay.

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