Ever find yourself sitting on the toilet trying to poop but nothing comes out? You’re definitely not alone. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints, accounting for millions of doctors visits each year. “Constipation is more common than most people realize, affecting about 35 million Americans, or roughly 1 in 10,” shares Yasi Ansari, M.S., RDN, CSSD. When you’re backed up, it can be tempting to try quick fixes. But experts agree one of the most effe

While long-term smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for COPD, your environment also plays a massive role. If you have COPD, living somewhere with low pollution levels can help you manage your symptoms. For people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , everyday life can be difficult. COPD is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis . About 30 million Americans have COPD, and more than half are unaware of it.

Probiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms found in fermented foods and supplements. Probiotics may help with various digestive issues, including diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They work by balancing gut bacteria, enhancing the immune system, and improving digestion. Common probiotic strains include lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. Probiotic-Rich Food Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet is a natural way to su

Most of us have heard that plastic and microwaves are a bad match. But despite that knowledge, we sometimes fall into the trap of heating up our lunch packed Tupperware containers for the sake of time and convenience. If you do a deep dive into the dangers of plastics in the kitchen, you would probably quit this bad habit cold turkey, but the truth is we’re all strapped for time and are just looking for a safe way to heat our leftovers in the microwave in less than two minute

Understanding Colon Cancer Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, originates in the large intestine or rectum, often starting from polyps – precancerous growths in the colon’s lining. While it can affect anyone, it’s most prevalent in individuals over 50, emphasizing the importance of early detection through screenings for better treatment outcomes. Statistics show colon cancer as the third most diagnosed cancer in both men and women in the U.S., with over 100,000 new cases annu

Why It Happens It’s normal to have some gas. Each day, most people make 1 to 3 pints of it as we digest our food. It escapes 14 to 23 times a day, one way or the other. But if the gas can’t easily get out, you may feel uncomfortable and bloated. Two Sources The gas inside you builds up two ways. Some of it starts as air that you swallow along with your food. Most of that goes away when you burp, but a little flows on into you. Your large intestine makes the rest of the gas as

The fact that we now have medications to treat everything from everyday infections to cardiovascular conditions is nothing short of miraculous. At the same time, ongoing research has revealed that some of these drugs may have unexpected effects on the body. So what is the number-one medication that impacts your gut microbiome? When we asked gastroenterologists which medication impacts the gut the most, they had the same answer: Antibiotics , which are used to treat bacterial

1. Your Genes Metabolism is how your body changes food into energy. If your body is slow at burning calories while you rest or sleep, you probably got that from your parents, through your genes. What you can do: Since you can’t change your genes, focus on your habits. One of the best ways to pep up your metabolism is to get more exercise. Look for ways to sneak more activity into your day. 2. Hormones Hormones impact appetite, metabolism, and even where your body stores fat.

Your kidneys do more work to keep you healthy than you can imagine. These bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist, are crucial in maintaining your overall well-being. Yet, many people overlook the importance of kidney health until problems occur. According to recent statistics from the CDC, over 37 million American adults are living with kidney disease, many without knowing it. Millions more are at risk due to unhealthy lifestyles and dietary habits. In this article

Fruits are naturally high in fiber, a nutrient that comes with a host of benefits for gut health, heart health, digestion and weight loss. The plant-based carbohydrate can’t be digested, which is exactly what gives it superpowers as it moves through the body. You may think of fiber as one single substance, but there are actually two types: Soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Both help you feel full, but each has special benefits, says Lisa Young, Ph.D., a registered dietitian

You may become hungrier when it's cold outside. This can be due to several different reasons, such as natural instincts, a need for additional calories for energy, mental health concerns, and more. 1. Biological Drive The scarcity of food throughout history created a biological survival drive to consume abundant amounts of food, with increased hunger in colder seasons. This is because, to survive in lower temperatures, humans had to consume more food. Until about the middle o

Supplements offer health benefits, but they may also interact with common cold medications in ways that increase side effects or reduce effectiveness. 1. Decongestants Decongestants are one of the most common ingredients in cold and flu products because nasal congestion is a frequent and uncomfortable symptom of these conditions. Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are decongestants commonly found in cold and flu medications. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nose

A healthier alternative to table sugar that looks, tastes and cooks like the real thing has been cooked up by scientists—with the help of slime mold. Using engineered bacteria, engineers at Tufts University produced tagatose, which is about 92 percent  as sweet as sucrose  but contains roughly 60 percent fewer calories.  It occurs naturally only in trace amounts—less than 0.2 percent of the sugars found in foods like dairy products and  certain fruits such as apples, oranges

Hot drink lovers might want to think again before grabbing a cup of coffee or tea on-the-go, as disposable plastic cups have been found to release thousands of microplastics into drinks, a new study has warned. Microplastics can be formed from the breakdown of larger plastic items or be released directly from products during their use. “These particles end up in our environment, our food, and eventually, our bodies,” said paper author and environmental scientist Xiangyu

What Is Acetaminophen? In the U.S., acetaminophen is the common name for N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (APAP). In other countries, it may be called paracetamol. It's a non-opioid analgesic, which means that it reduces pain signals in your nervous system. It's also an antipyretic agent, which means it reduces fever. Uses of acetaminophen Doctors recommend it for mild-to-moderate pain relief in conditions such as: Backaches Colds Headaches Period pain Minor arthritis pain Muscle ac

Common preservatives used to keep food safe and extend shelf life may be linked to a higher risk of several cancers and type 2 diabetes, according to two new studies from France. “These are very important findings for preservatives that are not only widely used in the French and European markets, but also in the United States,” said senior author Mathilde Touvier, principal investigator of the NutriNet-Santé study used to conduct the research. The NutriNet-Santé study, which

Diet Plays a Role Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer for both men and women. Smart food choices may help you lower your chances of getting it. Some studies say that people who eat right, exercise, stay a healthy weight, and keep alcohol to a minimum may cut their odds of the disease by more than a third. Eat: Dairy Most studies agree that calcium-rich dairy products can make you less likely to have colon growths (called adenomas) and colorectal cancer.

They’re not pretty to talk about, but tummy troubles are important to address. They’re also more common than you might think—60 to 70 million people struggle with digestive diseases. While a single food can’t solve all of your gut issues, your food choices may be able to help. If nothing else, what you eat (or drink) could provide a little relief. Case and point: Ginger. Whether in tea, shots, food, or even gummy chews, ginger has been known to help soothe an upset stomach, a

Resolutions to improve health typically include measures such as more exercise, a healthier diet and stopping smoking. But what about your gut microbiome ? Taking steps to protect and improve it can benefit digestive health and more, says Purna Kashyap, M.B.B.S. , a gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic who specializes in the gut microbiome and gastrointestinal disorders . "The microbiome is essentially a community of bacteria, fungi, viruses and all of their genes," Dr. Kashya

The supplement industry is booming. A recent analysis found that by 2034 , the dietary supplements market could reach upwards of $ 170 billion. Supplements that promote gut health are among the most popular options my patients use, with most individuals taking probiotics, prebiotics or a combination of the two. Though many lifestyle choices impact gut health, diet remains a primary driver of a well-functioning microbiome. The Gut vs. The Microbiome Gut health is a primary dri

Though the exact role of diet in prostate health isn’t clear, several theories exist. Some experts believe that the high fat, high-sugar Western diet may contribute to increased rates of prostate cancer. Some studies have associated diets high in dairy products and high total calcium intake through food and supplements with a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm this. You’ll still need to see a healthcare professional for re

Antibiotics are widely known to disrupt gut health by killing “good” as well as “bad” bacteria in the digestive tract.  Now scientists are also exploring if other common drugs can interfere with the trillions of microbes that constitute the gut microbiome — leading to changes that linger long after you stop taking the medication.  “This has been a hidden problem,” says Martin J. Blaser, MD, director of the Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine at Rutgers University i

Raspberries are packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and prebiotics that support a healthy gut. Adding this fruit to your diet can help ease constipation, balance your microbiome, and support weight management. 1. They're Rich in Fiber Raspberries are one of the highest-fiber fruits available , providing 8 grams of fiber per one cup serving. Research shows that consuming plenty of fiber is key for supporting a healthy digestive tract in multiple ways. This nutrient helps: Sl

I’ve been noticing a trend during my weekly grocery runs — beverage cases brimming with probiotic drinks, all promising to support gut health. Some of these drinks I’ve enjoyed myself, such as kefir. But recently, some of these beverages have the same look and feel as soft drinks. Once I noticed, I began seeing these drinks everywhere. You might have seen brand names such as Poppi, Olipop or Culture Pop at a neighborhood cookout or your friends might have opted for kombucha o

You may have heard the saying that raw oysters are safer to eat in months with an “R” in them—from September to April, when it’s cooler in the Northern Hemisphere. But this old rule isn't true. Eating raw oysters is risky year-round, and the danger has little to do with temperature or storage. Although modern farming and supply chains have improved food safety, the risk of eating raw oysters goes beyond how they’re harvested or stored. Oysters are filter feeders, meaning the

Is it a stomachache or something more worrisome? While discomfort in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract — the path that runs through your entire digestive system — can often be temporary and relatively harmless, in some cases it can signal a more serious medical problem.  Bloating, diarrhea, constipation , abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, gas and other common GI symptoms can result from a number of health issues, ranging from stress to GI diseases like ulcerative co

Waking up feeling backed up and bloated is no fun, but simple nighttime habits can set you up for smoother mornings and regular bowel movements. From smart food choices to better sleep routines, small changes can make a big difference for your digestion. 1. Stick to a Sleep Schedule Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily can help you achieve regular bowel movements. A consistent sleep and wake schedule regulates your body’s natural rhythm. Some research also sugge

Antacids are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that help relieve heartburn or indigestion by reducing stomach acid. While they provide quick relief, antacids can also cause side effects, especially when overused. These side effects can vary depending on the type of antacid you take. 1. Constipation Antacids that contain calcium, such as Tums ( calcium carbonate ), are associated with constipation, as well as bloating and gas. Aluminum-containing antacids can also cause const

A new analysis of diet studies suggests that swapping red meat for plant proteins can help support healthier cholesterol levels, and in turn, better heart health. For their analysis, researchers from Spain reviewed dozens of clinical trials comparing red meat with other foods. They found that swapping red meat for plant proteins improved cholesterol levels, while replacing it with a mix of animal and plant proteins led to a small rise in triglycerides. High cholesterol—especi

1. Your Genes Metabolism is how your body changes food into energy. If your body is slow at burning calories while you rest or sleep, you...

One recent weekend, I didn’t drink much while out in the sun. That Monday morning, after seven hours of sleep, I still felt exhausted. I...

If you cook a lot, there’s a good chance that there are certain staples you use in the kitchen automatically, almost like a reflex. Maybe...

One ounce of dried pumpkin seeds provides around 165 milligrams (mg) of magnesium. Several common foods pack in nearly the same amount...

There are a lot of factors that could help you boost the odds of having a good night's sleep, and your diet is definitely one of them....

Probiotics Probiotics are live microorganisms found in fermented foods and supplements. Probiotics may help with various digestive...

Gut health has become one of the buzziest topics in wellness, but how much of it is hype, and how much is truly essential to your...

The Food Safety Diet Food safety experts live and breathe the words they preach (I call it the “food safety diet”). They have seen cases...

Though the exact role of diet in prostate health isn’t clear, several theories exist. Some experts believe that the high fat, high-sugar...

A happy gut isn’t just about avoiding tummy troubles. It’s tied to better digestion , a stronger immune system, and even potentially...

Adjusting your diet can be a natural and effective way to alleviate constipation and support your digestive system. Beyond just adding...

The health of the gut and the balance of the microbiome inside the gut play an important role in colon cancer. Changes in the gut...

Apples The teachers’ favorite contains sorbitol, a sugar that's naturally in many fruits. Some people's bodies can’t absorb it properly,...

When the mercury rises and the sun is blazing, nothing satisfies like a frosty drink. You might slake your thirst with a cold brew, a...

Apples The teachers’ favorite contains sorbitol, a sugar that's naturally in many fruits. Some people's bodies can’t absorb it properly,...

The good news is that things you do every day can help your gut. The opposite is also true – and daily habits can negatively affect gut...

Constipation is a common digestive issue that can leave you feeling bloated, sluggish and downright uncomfortable. When stool moves too...

Counting up the number of plants you eat in a week might help you have a healthier gut. Researchers found that eating at least 30...

In today’s diet culture, so much of the focus is on eating less, cutting certain foods out and demonizing certain nutrients (often...

For many, few things are more comforting than a hot cup of tea paired with a piece of chocolate—and now, new research suggests this...

Looking for a gut-healthy drink to add to your routine? Gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab, D.O. recently shared his favorite juice, which...