Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders Treatments

Patients suffering from functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) may have several types of difficulties in gastrointestinal functioning. These can include, poor motility causing vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, bloating and related difficulties in gastrointestinal functioning.. Such chronic symptoms may also cause additional distress both emotional and physical.

Gastrointestinal Treatments

The treatment of GI disorders differs based on the specific type of GI disorder that the patient is suffering from. There is a wide range of treatments available for FGIDs, ranging from dietary interventions to psychological interventions.

1) Probiotic treatments have been found to be useful in treating abdominal bloating, a sense of indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) because of the influence of the gut microbes on the brain-gut interactions. For people with IBS or related FGIDs, the homeostasis maintained by the gut microbes is disrupted, probiotics then help to build up this equilibrium. In other words, probiotics are supplements that help maintain a healthy balance between the good and bad bacteria in the intestinal system. Lactobacillus GG, Saccharomyces boulardii, and Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 are some probiotics that have been effective in clinical trials.

2) For adults suffering from gastroparesis, prokinetic agents are commonly prescribed. These agents not only help to improve motility, but also relieve patients of all the symptoms that are associated with delayed gastric emptying. The specific prokinetic agents that are used to treat FD come with their fair share of side-effects. While domperidone and metoclopramide may help with gastric motility, they may have side-effects like fatigue, agitation, and drowsiness. Erythromycin is an effective prokinetic agent but only in small doses; when you increase the dosage, it reduces the gastric accommodation. Functional dyspepsia is associated with early fullness after eating or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. For these conditions proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) muscle relaxants of the upper stomach (e.g., buspirone) or antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine) have been shown to help this condition.

3) Antidepressants can be prescribed to patients suffering from FGIDs, specifically tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for pain and mirtazapine or olanzapine for nausea and vomiting. They are found to be useful because they have an effect on the central as well as the peripheral nervous system. The patients are likely to feel good psychologically when you prescribe antidepressants because one of their main functions is to regulate the mood of the person.

4) Nutrition therapy affects the patient's stomach and digestive system directly. The right nutritional support can go a long way in relieving symptoms and preventing any recurrence. Fiber softens the stools,which is helpful for constipation. A diet that is rich in fiber may also help people suffering from milder IBS with constipation to some extent. Another diet that can be used under nutrition therapy is the low-fructose diet. Fructose is easily available in the market today - it is used in juice, candies and sodas. Higher intake of fructose can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as chronic abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and nausea. Finally a low FODMAP diet is useful for people suffering from IBS with diarrhea.

For more information on functional gastrointestinal disorders, order the Rome Online Collection. The catalog provides real-time resources and information on GI disorders as well as recommended pathways to treatment and diagnosis.

Healthy Fruits And Their Health Benefits

Health benefits of eating fruits are exceptional for perfect health. They are an excellent source of natural vitamins and minerals which are needed by your body for proper functioning. Nutritionists recommend inclusion of dietary fiber in your daily diets and fruits are the best source of gut-friendly fiber. It keeps your digestion and vent system work properly and protects from ailments like constipation, gastritis etc.

We know very well, the human body is knowledgeable construction and several disparate convoluted reactions takes place in every fraction of the moment. Today, everyone has a busy lifestyle due to that reason most of the people's eating pattern become arranged with preservatives and processed foods, that are not only lacking imperative nutrients but can also responsible for the birth of noxious disease in the human body. When your body shows any health disorders or it falls ill, these kinds of concerns are recover or treated with a healthy diet which can be easily gained by eating various nutritious fruits.

Many fruits are also an excellent source of antioxidants. They help you fight free radicals which can protect you from many diseases. Many studies recommend that eating a diet rich in flavonoids can lower the risk of heart disease by a surprise 65 percent. Antioxidants may also help you improve the health and quality of your skin and hair.

Health benefits of fruits:

Fruits are absolutely cholesterol free

They are low in sodium and calories

Rich in potassium, Vitamin C, Folate

Dietary fiber in fruits helps reduce cholesterol and lowers risk of heart ailments

Fruits are also an excellent source of antioxidants

Our body digests fruits effortlessly and provides an instant supply of energy in the very short interval of time, it is considered a prime benefit of fruits that one can take advantage of busy schedules. Therefore, sports person, gymnastics, pregnant women and sick patients are mostly guided by doctors to add fruits to their balanced diet for the incessant supply of energy which required by the body in a natural manner.

Almost, every species of fruits have the spacious nutritional profile but you know, type and quantity of nutrients vary with the selection of different fruits in your diet. The nutrients in fruit are censorious for health and maintenance of your body. The potassium in fruit can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Potassium may also decline the risk of developing kidney stones and help to decrease bone loss as you age.

The comfort of fruit for your hair health can be enjoyed through hair masks. Melon and banana hair masks are endorsed by many beauty professionals for hair care at home. You can also make a paste of lemon juice and aloe vera and apply it to your hair. Keep the paste on for approximately minutes and then exhaustively wash your hair with mild shampoo. These packs not only improve hair quality but also terminate scalp disorders like dandruff and itching.

Best way to consume fruits is to eat them raw and when they are ripe. Avoid cooking fruits as all the nutrients will be lost. Eating a diet rich in fruits may protect you from certain kinds of cancer. FODMAPs are found in dairy, wheat, garlic, onions, beans, some fruits, artificial sweeteners, and other foods. And some people simply aren't able to digest them very well.

The Author follows the low fodmap diet plan so, People should start a low FODMAP diet and all low fodmap recipes were carefully researched choosing ingredients that are compliant with your special diet and nothing extra. We all know fruits are the part of healthy food recipes, which gives us nutrition along with good taste.

How to Become a Peak Performer All Throughout the Day

Do you feel stressed out, unable to focus on chores at home or projects at work? Do you feel lethargic without energy? Fear not - you can easily turn that around. This article gives you several viewpoints so that you can actually transform yourself to be a peak performer all throughout the day tirelessly. Read on to find out.

Here they are:

Get 7-8 hours of good night's sleep
It depends from individual to individual. Some need less while others need more sleep. Go to bed early and wake up early. Go to sleep at the same time everyday so that it becomes a good habit.
After waking up, drink a glass of water
Your body needs to be hydrated. Here I give you a special tip. Add a drop of honey to a glass of water and drink it all. This is considered very healthy.
Go for a walk in the early morning
Do you like to jog or run? Or, do you hate them? Then simply walk a distance of about a mile and come back home in time to have breakfast.
Have a good and healthy breakfast
You can have corn flakes with milk and a little sugar or a bread toast with jam or something else good and healthy that your dietician has advised. Make a mug of tea or coffee. Having this kind of breakfast will enable you to be fresh and full of vigor, peak performing until it is time for lunch. You can have some light healthy snack sometime before lunch so that you keep performing well.
Drive or commute to work and attack the frog of the day
You should have made a To-Do list the night before, prioritizing your work tasks for today. The frog of the day is that task which you find fearful, doubtful, complex and hard to deal with. Attack the frog first thing at the work place and get over with it. Then slowly orient towards easier tasks during the day, thriving high until it is time to return home.
Have a good nourishing dinner
Eat plenty of whole grains, vegetables and fruits as dinner. Drink water. Do not take coffee or tea before retiring to bed because this may hamper your good night's sleep.
Enjoy family time
Hold a conversation with your family and watch something funny on TV together. Help each other with problems and discuss to find solutions.
Be at peace with yourself
You have been a peak performer all throughout the day, eating healthy and exercising since morning. You have given your all to your work and family. So be at peace with yourself. Be anxiety-free and relax into yourself so that you fall fast asleep in order to target the next day, the same way you did today.
Summing up, becoming a peak performer helps you to carry out your day's work tasks smoothly, energetically and productively. So why not choose to be so every single day because there is no better way to achieve fulfillment and satisfaction other than giving your all laser focus into your daily tasks.

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Food For Healthy Eyes: Why You Need Lutein and Zeaxanthin

If you are looking to prevent eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts, a good way to start is to consume the right diet. You need specific nutrients and foods for healthy eyes, but of special note are lutein and zeaxanthin. What are they and how do they keep your eyes healthy?

Lutein and zaexanthin are carotenoids, pigments that give plants red, orange, and yellow colors. Among their functions is protecting plants from high-energy light rays called blue light. These substances are also highly concentrated in the macula of the eye, giving it a yellowish color. In fact, the macula contains a third form of carotenoid, as stated in recent research. This pigment, called meso-zeaxanthin, is produced in the retina using ingested lutein and is not found in any food source.

The Benefits Of Lutein And Zeaxanthin

The primary benefit of lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin has to do with how they protect the eyes from blue light. They block blue light from reaching the retina which prevents light-induced oxidation that leads to macular degeneration (AMD). They also work with other antioxidants like vitamins C and E and beta-carotene to protect the body from free radicals that damage the cells and cause many diseases.

The benefits of these three carotenoids are well-documented in a number of studies published in reputable journals. The American Journal of Epidemiology, Ophthalmology and Archives of Ophthalmology released research associating high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin with low incidences of macular degeneration. Two studies in Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science found roughly similar results in that increased levels of macular pigments meant lower risks of developing AMD.

Furthermore, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS and AREDS2) formulated a daily antioxidant containing vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin. It was found that this combination reduced the risk of AMD progression by 10 to 25 percent. The said research did not clarify if lutein and zeaxanthin also reduced the risk of cataracts.

Foods Containing Lutein And Zeaxanthin

These two nutrients are abundant in green and yellow vegetables, especially leafy ones. Cooked spinach and cooked kale are considered top sources. They are also found in non-vegetarian sources, particularly egg yolks. However, it would be best to stick to vegetarian items if you have high cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

Just like the rest of the body, the eyes need proper nutrition to stay healthy and free from diseases. Consuming food items rich in lutein and zeaxanthin is a good way to maintain excellent vision.

Vision Loss - Scary But a Realistic Possibility and the Ways to Avoid It

Vision loss can be catastrophic. Sight is among the most beautiful gifts. It lets us enjoy the beauty of this world. Sudden snatching of this gift can be too much to handle for most. However, if something like this has happened, then very little can be done besides getting up and coping with it.

sudden vision problems can prove to be very limiting. It takes a lot of time and mental adjustment to cope up with them. However, vision loss is a gradual process. It can be prevented or at least slowed down with the help of timely eye tests and treatments. Sudden blindness is rare. It only occurs in case of acute diseases, strokes, and accidents. Most of the times, losing eyesight is a gradual process. Early detection of the problem through eye exams and assistance of an eye doctor can help in improving the vision or at least slow the progression of the disease.
Some diseases that can impair your vision to a great extent are:

Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is an age-related problem that leads to central vision loss. Patients suffering from this problem face problems in performing even simple tasks. Activities like reading and crossing the road safely become a challenge. Eye tests can help in early detection of the condition. It can slow the progression of the disease.

Cataract
Cataract is one of the most common age-related vision disorder. It leads to clouding of the lens. The patients feel glare sensitivity and blurred vision. Your eye doctor can help you in fighting with cataract. Simple cataract surgery can restore your vision.

Glaucoma
Glaucoma damages the fine nerves that connect the eye to the brain. It can lead to tunnel vision or complete vision loss. Early detection is vital. Acute glaucoma can even lead to sudden blindness.

Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is caused by diabetes. It leads to blurred, patchy, and fluctuating vision. Regular eye tests are mandatory for early detection and reducing the impact on vision.

Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis Pigmentosa is a progressive, inherited eye disease. In the beginning, the patients can face night blindness. Sadly, there is no cure for the disease to date.

Stroke
Strokes are leading cause of loss of vision in one eye. Strokes generally cause hemianopsia. One side of the brain gets damaged and leads to loss of vision in one eye. This kind of vision loss is permanent or irreversible.

Regular visits to your eye doctor can help you in keeping vision deterioration in check. Comprehensive eye tests help in the timely assessment of the eye condition.

Sudden vision problems or partial loss of vision is alarming. You must never take it lightly. If left untreated you can end up losing eyesight completely.

Sudden blindness comes as a shock. Even simple chores like dressing up and cooking your meal can become difficult. One can start feeling completely dependent on others even for fulfilling basic needs.

For such people too, it may not be the end of the road. Even in case of significant vision loss, the patient can improve functionality with the help of following low-vision aids.
• Lenses that filter light
• Telescopic glasses
• Magnifying glasses
• Hand magnifiers
• Closed-circuit television
• Reading prisms

These devices can help in coping-up with the loss of vision. They are stronger in power than the regular eyeglasses and hence the patients may be able to get a functional vision. Your eye doctor would be able to suggest you the best low-vision aid according to your condition.

Vision loss can completely change a life. A gift you never valued so preciously becomes most significant all of a sudden. But, you have no way to get it back. Not reaching that point at all or slowing the progression is the best option you have. Regular eye tests and consultation with your eye doctor can help you in that.

Study Reveals the Genetics Underlying Cerebral Palsy and Autism

Who does not enjoy mysteries, isn't it? Though the choice or type of mysteries differs from person to person, what remains same is the love for mysteries in general, right? Indeed, all of us even have our favorite detectives, or the people who solve a mystery. Ranging from the quiet and gentle spinster Miss Marple of the St. Mary Meade village, who claims to be a "simple village resident" but is quite clear headed when any mystery (be it a simple one, or a complex one), to the rather obsessively prim and proper, but still delightful Monsieur Poirot, who takes great pride in his mustache as well as his gray cells to the so-called "armchair lounger" and one of the most "incisive reasoning and most active agent in all of Europe" Sherlock Holmes, all of us have our own tastes.

However, their methods and personalities notwithstanding, what links the three of them is the power of their brains, or in other words, their mental faculties etc.

Basically speaking, mental faculties are what help us to distinguish between each other, for, otherwise, all of would be the same. Indeed, in a gathering of any sort, what chiefly distinguishes one person from another is his or her mental agility, which helps them carry the conversation forward in an interesting or stimulating or different manner.

Therefore, mental faculties are just about as important as our dresses or the clothes we wear.

However, just imagine if your mental faculties aren't on par with the others, that is, you find yourself a bit slower or mentally lazier than the rest, or say, you find yourself not being able to catch up with the rest of the population then how would you feel?

Indeed, just imagine for a second, that the very scenario which you feel too scared to even imagine is what it is actually like for people who are afflicted with cerebral palsy and autism.

Now, what is cerebral palsy and what is autism? Read on to know further about the above mentioned medical conditions.

Cerebral palsy can be defined as a medical condition (specifically a muscle disorder) which leads to the atrophying of the muscle (that is, the decadence of the muscle), and also has other effects such, affecting the muscle tone, the movement of the individual afflicted with the disease and also the motor skills of that person.

Its main cause or causative effect can be linked to brain damage caused when the individual is about 3-5 years old or, before childbirth itself, such as in the case of an accident etc.

Autism can be defined as a disease wherein the afflicted individual is unable to achieve social success, that is, the afflicted individual is socially awkward.

However, hope is not lost, as recent studies have finally unearthed the genetic reasons behind both the diseases.

Read on to find out about the mentioned genetic reasons.

In a nutshell, it can be said that both the above diseases are caused due to the disruption as well as the inflammation of the neural cell pathways which come to and fro from the brain. Indeed, after studying about 182 patients, the scientists found that the disruptions and the inflammations of neural pathways seen in case of cerebral palsy also overlapped those of autism, thereby unearthing the common link between the two diseases as well the cause.

If all of you have not found the above information regarding the common reason behind both cerebral palsy and autism satisfactory, you can log onto our site which should prove to be more than satisfactory.

Best Ways to Care for Your Feet to Avoid Common Feet Problems

When it comes to your feet, how much care and love do you give them? If you haven't, you're not alone. We often don't think about our feet until something happens to them. When we get even a blister, it can limit our ability to walk or even wear shoes. What was once a natural, everyday activity we don't put any thought in and in which we take for granted, now becomes more challenging.

There are many things that can put our feet at risk for injury. The most common culprits are flat sandals, high-heels, wearing shoes that are too big or too small, not properly washing the feet, not wearing socks white wearing shoes, not controlling underlying health issues that contribute to foot problems such as diabetes and not keeping one's toenails properly trimmed.

However, what if you have an injured or infected foot? How can you prevent such discomfort to your feet from happening again?

Here are some easy, simple activities you can do to help keep your feet in tip-top shape. After all, happy feet mean a happy you:

1. Stretching. The act of walking, sitting, standing, going up and down stairs and the like can be seen as some sort of physical activity. While they may not technically count as exercise, you are putting in effort. Stretching your foot is a great way to strengthen the muscles, tendons and joins in your feet that can cause possibly painful discomfort. Those with plantar fasciitis, for instance, can greatly benefit from short, daily stretching of the feet.

2. Wear Inserts or Orthotics. Shoe inserts and orthotics are great for making shoes comfortable by shaping them to the individual shape and contours of your feet. They can make otherwise painful and uncomfortable shoes that you'd always wanted to wear, bearable to wear. Orthotics and inserts can relieve pressure, reduce rubbing and provide the unique, specialized support your feet need to be pain-free. There are many types and quality of orthotics out there, so it is important to consult with your podiatrist as to which ones will be best for your particular foot pain or condition.

3. Don't Go Barefoot. While it seems to be popular both for hip style reasons and for perceived foot, joint and leg health reasons, to go barefoot or wear flat shoes that mimic being barefoot, it is advisable to avoid the temptation to go barefoot. While it may seem natural, going barefoot increases your chances of getting warts on your feet as well as tendonitis. When you go barefoot, you also risk injury to the bottom of your feet. Whether you're walking on some cool grass or in the driveway, sharp objects such as rocks and pieces of glass can cut the bottom of your feet. Being barefoot can also increase your risk of getting burns and frostbite to the bottom of your feet as well, such as when you briefly walk on a sizzling road or driveway in summer or briefly step outside to get the newspaper on a cold, snowy, winter day.

4. Wear Proper Footwear. High-heels as well as flat shoes such as flip-flops and sandals can cause strain on your feet as well as give your feet blisters and warts. These types of footwear also can lead to joint, tendon and muscle pain in your legs, hip and back as well.

5. Wear Shoes That Fit. Wearing shoes that are too big can cause blisters. Shoes that are too small can lead to ingrown toenails and crunched toes. While it may not seem practical to be constantly buying shoes, it is well worth the investment. After all your feet are important and so is their care.

While you may not notice the difference your feet make in everyday life, their care and health are important. If you have chronic foot conditions or pain, talk to your podiatrist to get recommendations on effective treatment.

5 Signs Of A Slow Metabolism And Hacks To Fix It

Wondering why the pounds keep piling up? You could be experiencing a slow metabolism.

Metabolism is the process of how your body burns stored fuel (including fats) to be used up as energy. When your body burns more fuel, you trim down. So if you've been busy at the gym, eating right but you can't seem to see results, you may want to check if you have a slow metabolism.

A thyroid problem. Hypo and hyper thyroidism can make you lose or gain weight even if you do not try to do so. People who suffer from thyroid problems can also experience and dry skin.

Unexplained weight gain and problems losing it. The most common sign of a slow metabolism. Even if you eat healthy and regularly exercise or train, you still pack the pounds. And the most annoying part is you are having trouble keeping it off. While age may play a factor in retaining the pound and having trouble trimming down, this does not happen in an instant.

You always feel tired. A slow energy burn means your body functions slow down as well, keeping you feeling tired and sluggish.

Sadness and depression. Mood changes as your bodily functions slow down. Sadness, and depression can sink in.

You feel cold all the time. Blood circulation can also slow down, together with the decreased energy burn and supply, this makes you feel colder than usual.

However, don't lose hope. While metabolism does decline as we get older, there are ways to jumpstart it again.

Visit your doctor. If you suspect thyroidism, an early diagnosis can help counteract the effects and lessen the damage. Also, a check-up will show possible lingering illnesses, either than thyroidism, which you need to correct.
Diversify your workout. Routine can make you stale, the same goes for your workout. You may not be experiencing results because your body needs a better challenge. Change your workout sets and routine after every four weeks. It can be a different exercise or workout but targets the same muscle groups. If you some extra time to spare, you can cross train. This provides your body with a different kind of challenge while still giving it ample time to recover.
Stay healthy but try other foods. If you eat healthy, then keep it that way. But do try some other healthy foods to help diversify your diet. Add spice, literally, to your foods. Spicy foods help perk your metabolism.
Get enough sleep. Not only your reflexes and your brain slows down when it does not get enough rest, so does your digestive system. Hence, your metabolic rate decreases and instead of burning fat, your body cannot cope at it stores it. Get seven to eight hours of sleep a night regularly. If you get a chance, don't skimp on naps as well. However, don't over sleep. Some people who sleep 10 or more hours have a tendency to get sluggish.

Eating Disorders: What Are The Signs You Could Be Suffering?

Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia are becoming increasingly common. They mostly affect teenage girls and young women, but men and older women can also suffer from an eating disorder. Anyone with this medical/psychological condition needs to be treated as early as possible to prevent serious health complications. Early detection and treatment can literally save lives.

There are certain signs and symptoms that can indicate if a person has an eating disorder. The most common ones are listed below. If you notice these in yourself, or in someone you know, there is a chance that you or that person may need professional help. Talk to your parents, a health counselor, or an adult you trust to help you get properly assessed and diagnosed, and if needed, treated.

Physical signs and symptoms

Noticeable weight loss (for people suffering from anorexia nervosa)
Weight fluctuations (for people with bulimia nervosa). The weight can move up and down, or it can be within the normal range.
Intolerance to cold. The person feels cold easily.
Frequent experience of abdominal pain, constipation, acid reflux and other digestive issues
Feeling dizzy and sometimes fainting
Either lethargy or excess energy, or alternating experiences of these two opposite states
Irregularities in the menstrual period
Dental issues (such as cavities, tooth discoloration and tooth sensitivity)
Dry skin, nails and hair. The person may also have thinning hair and brittle nails.
Poor wound healing and immune function. She gets the flu and common infections easily.
Swollen salivary glands (along the neck and jaw areas)
Behavioral signs

Dressing in layers or loose clothing to disguise weight loss (and also to stay warm)
A preoccupation with weight loss and dieting. The person is very concerned about food choices and nutritional data (calories, fat content, etc.). She can refuse to eat certain types of food altogether, such as carbs or fats.
Frequently commenting that she is fat or overweight, even though it is evidently not true
Frequently saying that she is not hungry, including during meal times when she should be hungry
Skipping meals or eating very little during meals
Occasionally binge-eating (eating a large amount of food in a short period of time)
Purging. This is done by going to the bathroom during or after meals, vomiting, or using laxatives and diuretics.
Unusual food rituals, such as chewing excessively, not allowing different food items on her plate to touch, and eating only certain food types (for example, vegetables and salads only)
Excessive drinking of water or non-caloric drinks
Hoarding of food in unusual places
Excessive working out
Frequently looking in the mirror to check her appearance
Difficulty sleeping or getting a good night's sleep
Emotional signs and symptoms

Fears eating in public, or feels uncomfortable while eating with others
Prefers to be alone, and withdraws from friends and social events
Has extreme mood swings
Has an intense and unreasonable fear of gaining weight
Has a distorted image of her body
May have poor self-esteem
The presence of these signs and symptoms does not indicate with absolute certainty that the person does have an eating disorder. Only a professional medical practitioner can properly diagnose the condition, so it's best to see one as soon as possible.