Bouts of diarrhea, gas, constipation, hemorrhoids, IBD or nausea can be uncomfortable and irritating. In an effort to lean more about what upsets our digestive system and how we can help it the Wellness Advisor spoke to Sandra Marin, RD.
Wellness Advisor: What causes digestive disorders?
Sandra Marin: In people 12 or older, common digestive disorders such as diarrhea, gas, constipation or nausea can be caused by things such as bacteria, viruses, food intolerances--such as lactose intolerance--or certain medications. Traveling, anxiety, or drinking untreated water can also cause digestive problems.
More complex digestive disorders, such as hemorrhoids are caused when there is increased pressure on the veins in the pelvic or rectal area which makes the veins stretch out of shape. Among the things that cause hemorrhoids are events like pregnancy, due to the extra pressure on the uterus from the developing fetus. Being overweight can also lead to hemorrhoids, especially if the excess weight is carried in the abdominal area which may put extra strain on the pelvic veins, or not ingesting enough fiber which can also place stress on the rectum. Medical conditions which may cause blood to pool in the abdominal area, may also lead to this complication, as well as any tumor in the pelvic area, but these are very rare. Inflammatory bowel disease is a term we use to describe either inflammation of the large intestine (ulcerative colitis) or inflammation which may occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract (Crohn’s disease).
The cause for IBD is not known, but we suspect that genetics and environmental factors which may affect our immune systems may be associated with IBD.
WA: Are there supplements that can help digestive disorders?
Marin: Acidophilus helps to maintain healthy bacteria in the gut and ginger, which is commonly used for nausea, is also known to have a soothing effect on the digestive system. In addition, ginger has also been shown to help with digestive issues.
Sometimes hemorrhoids are caused by the strain required to pass hard stools. Cascara Sagrada is an herb which has been used for centuries to help stimulate contractions in the intestine and to help relief constipation. Ginger would also be something to try if someone were experiencing hemorrhoids. In terms of IBD, I would again recommend ginger but also the addition of fish oils. Fish oils which contain EPA and DHA have been shown, in human studies, to decrease the production of the chemicals that promote inflammation. Human studies have shown that the inflammatory response often associated with IBD is decreased when the person takes fish oil supplements.
WA: What lifestyle changes should I make to prevent them from occurring?
Marin: Among the things someone can do to try to prevent these problems from occurring is to eat a healthy diet rich in whole grains and vegetables with adequate amounts of water. In addition, exercise also helps to maintain muscle tone which often helps people to maintain regular bowel movements. If you are someone who is prone to gastrointestinal problems I would recommend trying fish oils, acidophilus and ginger in conjunction with your medical treatment.
