Gastro IntestinalOne third of the UK population regularly suffers from digestive illnesses, such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach-aches and nausea and almost 15% of deaths in the UK are linked to the digestive tract . . . Almost 2 million people in the UK were diagnosed with a digestive disorder last year and one third of the UK population regularly suffers from digestive illnesses, such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach-aches and nausea.Over 3.7 million operations were carried out on parts of the digestive system in the UK in 2005/06 Almost 15% of deaths in the UK are linked to the digestive tract GPs prescribed drugs costing more than £562 million for the gastrointestinal system last year in England 42% of people suffering from digestive problems turn to sources other than their GP for help Cancers of the digestive tract account for 23% of cancer deaths (7)Nutrients vital to body function are absorbed in the gut and toxic by-products are eliminated via the gut. The gut is therefore vital to every aspect of health, unfortunately, gut dysfunction is linked to a huge range of conditionsMost commonly: - irritable bowel syndrome
- Crohn's disease
- ulcerative colitis
- bowel cancer
- peptic or duodenal ulcer
- coeliac disease
- diverticulitis
- constipation
- gallstones
- diarrhoea
- indigestion
Common causes of gut dysfunction include: - food allergies/intolerances (such as lactose intolerance)
- stress
- insufficient production of digestive enzymes
- insufficient hydrochloric acid production (for protein digestion)
- lack of beneficial bacteria (probiotics)
- use of antibiotics
- parasites and bacterial infection
- high sugar/low fibre diets
- eating "on the run"
If the following symptoms are persistent and without obvious reason, it is wise to see your doctor: - Abdominal pain before or after meals
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Continuing unexplained weight loss
- Diarrhoea, constipation or any alteration in bowel habit
- Change in stools (bowel motions) especially if they become black, dark red, pale or contain mucus (slime)
- Bleeding when you pass a stool
- Pain when you pass a stool
- Feeling that your bowels are not emptying completely
- Generally feeling tired, lethargic or unwell in association with any abdominal symptoms
Lifestyle Tips: - Eat slowly and chew well.
- Eat a high fibre, balanced diet, choosing whole grains*, fresh vegetables (raw and cooked), fresh fruit, lean meats, eggs.
- Avoid common allergens, such as wheat and milk, to see if this improves your digestive health.
- Drink plenty of clean water, between meals.
- Try stress management techniques, such as yoga.
- Allow enough hours for sleep.
Millet, quinoa, buckwheat and amaranth are gluten-free, do not feed candida, and act as prebiotics, have a calming effect, and are full of vitamins and minerals. |
