HealthTip: IBS?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder that involves abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel movements. It is unclear why IBS develops, but it is the most common intestinal complaint for who are referred to a gastroenterologist. In this disorder, there are no structural problems with the intestines, but there may be complications with intestinal muscle contractions. Symptoms and severity vary from person to person; abdominal pain, fullness, gas, and bloating for at least 6 months are commonly the main symptoms of IBS. Discomfort and symptoms may occur after meals, come and go, and may be reduced or go away after a bowel movement. Those with IBS may suffer from constipation and/or diarrhea. Diarrhea may involve frequent, loose, watery stools, with an urgent need to have a bowel movement which may be difficult to control. Constipation may involve difficulty passing stool, and less frequent bowel movements. Cramping with a bowel movement and lack of eliminating any stool, or only a small amount may also occur.
If these symptoms sound familiar, make an appointment with your doctor and ask about IBS.

Information Source:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001292/

HealthTip: Walking For Your Prostate

In a recent study, experts found that brisk walking may be beneficial in men with prostate cancer.
The study looked at 1455 men who were diagnosed with prostate cancer that hadn't spread. A survey regarding physical activity was distributed to participants 2 years after diagnosis, before any signs of the cancer returning. It was found that men who walked briskly for at least 3 hours each week were 57% less likely to experience progression of prostate cancer, when compared to those who walked at a slower pace and for less than 3 hours each week.
3 hours each week may sound like a lot of time, but getting 26 minutes of fresh air each day may be worth the effort? You decide! Taking your walks with a friend, family member, or pet, and setting a specific time each day for your walk may help motivate you to spend 30 minutes a day yourself. In addition, it's important for oncology patients to remember that any exercise or diet plans should always be discussed with health care providers while undergoing treatments and/or when newly diagnosed.

Information Source:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/prostate_walk_053111.html

HealthTip: Dealing With GERD

Now that we know what GERD is (explained in the previous post), I thought to include a few recommendations dietitians may make when dealing with symptoms. The initial treatment is commonly lifestyle modifications in combination with over the counter medications such as antacids or antisecretory agents (for more information about medications, speak to your community pharmacist or physician).

Some lifestyle recommendations include:

• Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight
• Reducing intake of alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine
• Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, such as spices, peppermint, chocolate, citrus juices, onions, garlic, high fat foods, and/or tomato products
• Avoiding large meals
• Avoiding lying down within 2-3 hours after a meal
• Elevating the head of the bed 6-8 inches while sleeping

These recommendations may work in some people, while others may not feel sufficient relief and may require prescribed medication. In addition, maintaining a healthy body weight can also decrease the risk of developing obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, while avoiding trigger foods can help control acid reflux symptoms. Explore your options and talk to you physician or dietitian when dealing with GERD!

Information Source:
http://www.pennutrition.com.ezproxy.library.ubc.ca/KnowledgePathway.aspx?kpid=1707&trcatid=43&trid=1919

HealthTip: What Is GERD?

Many of us suffer from gastroesophageal reflux, or acid reflux, but GERD is a more serious form of gastroesophageal reflux and is the acronym for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It occurs when stomach contents rise up into the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to stomach). When refluxed stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus it may cause a burning sensation in the chest or throat; this is called heartburn or acid indigestion. Occasional gastroesophageal reflux is common, however, if it occurs more than twice a week, a physician should be consulted, as it may be GERD.
Main symptoms of GERD include frequent heartburn and acid indigestion. Some people with GERD do not experience heartburn but may have a dry cough, asthma symptoms, or trouble swallowing. Foods that may worsen reflux include:

• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate
• Caffeine or alcohol
• High fat and fried foods
• Garlic and onions
• Mint flavorings
• Spicy foods
• Tomato-based foods e.g. spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, pizza

Treatment for GERD may involve the use of antacids, over the counter medications, and changes in diet. Medications called proton pump inhibitors may be prescribed if symptoms occur more than three times a week or if they cannot be controlled by over-the-counter therapy and lifestyle alterations. If you experience difficulty in swallowing or frequent discomfort due to reflux, consult your physician or dietitian for assistance. 

Information Sources:
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerd/
http://www.pennutrition.com.ezproxy.library.ubc.ca/KnowledgePathway.aspx?kpid=1707&trcatid=43&trid=1919

HealthTip: Tanning. A Quest for Beauty

Many young women and men use tanning beds or tan outside to get that perfect sun-kissed glow, but not all realize that they are putting themselves at risk of developing serious health problems; some know the risks but continue to tan anyways. Here are a few facts that may help you make a more educated decision before choosing an option that may have serious consequences.
Indoor tanning is associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Tans are caused by UV radiation from the sun or tanning lamps. This radiation can damage cells in the skin and possibly cause them to change, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer. Melanoma is the leading cause of death from skin disease. According to the skin cancer foundation, indoor tanning before the age of 35 years raises the risk of melanoma by 75%. Other common risk factors for melanoma include:

• Living in sunny climates or at high altitudes
• Long-term exposure to high levels of strong sunlight, because of a job or other activities
• One or more blistering sunburns during childhood
• Use of tanning devices
• Family history of melanoma

So before you hop into that tanning bed or choose tanning oil over sunscreen, you may want to do your own research into melanoma and the risk of developing cancer.

Information Sources:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/tanning_dangers_051311.html
http://www.skincancer.org/the-skin-cancer-foundation-in-the-news.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001853/

HealthTip: Melatonin

Continuing on with the theme of sleep, lets talk about melatonin! Many of us have heard about it, but what is it and why do people use it?
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain. Synthetic forms (made in a laboratory) of melatonin can be found at your local pharmacy in pill form. Many use melatonin to adjust the body`s internal clock that sets sleep-wake cycles. Some use it to help with jet lag, while others use it for treatment of insomnia (inability to fall asleep). There are also many other suggested uses for melatonin, making it confusing to determine the effects of melatonin. Scientific evidence suggests that melatonin is likely effective for treatment of sleep problems in children with autism and mental retardation, and helps with sleep disorders in blind people. In addition, melatonin is possibly effective in improving alertness and other jet lag symptoms and may be able to shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep (more information can be accessed from the link below). Further research into other health claims is needed.
Melatonin may help with sleep because it plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Darkness causes the body to make more melatonin; this signals the body to prepare for sleep. Light decreases melatonin production and signals the body to prepare for being awake. Some people who have trouble sleeping have low levels of melatonin. It is thought that the addition of melatonin supplements may help these people sleep.
Melatonin may not be safe for use in pregnant women, children, those with high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and seizure disorder; it may also interact with medications. So if you`re interested in trying out melatonin, be sure to speak to your pharmacist or physician to determine if it is safe for you and what dose is best for you!

Information Source:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/940.html

HealthTip: Why Sleep?

In today's world of high expectations, lists of tasks to complete by the end of the day, and staying up late to finish what's expected of you, sleep tends to get pushed to the side and suffer. Here are a few reasons why you may want to reconsider your priorities and make sure you get enough sleep each night!
British researchers have recently suggested that sleeping less than 6 hours, or more than 8 hours each night is associated with a decline in brain function. The mental decline observed was the equivalent of brain function being 4-7 years older. Women who slept 7 hours each night showed the highest scores on cognitive (brain) function tests, following those who slept 6 hours/ night. Cognitive function was similar in men who reported sleeping 6, 7, or 8 hours/ night. Additionally, many who get regular sleep of more or less hours can still function well. However, those with less than 6 hours or more than 8 hours of sleep showed the lowest scores on cognitive function tests in the study.
Getting enough sleep assists many brain functions. It helps the brain and body recover from daily activities, is restorative, and helps us concentrate and process new information better and faster. In addition, the researchers suggest that chronic short sleep produces hormones and chemicals in the body which increase the risk of developing heart disease and strokes, and other conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes and obesity. When we think of a healthy lifestyle, we commonly consider a balanced diet and exercise. Sleep is also an important part of a healthy lifestyle and healthy aging, so don't forget to factor that into part of the equation!

Information Source:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_111598.html