Having a smooth digestion and a digestive system in excellent condition is essential for your overall well-being. 

And the good news is that adopting healthy eating habits doesn’t have to be complicated or monotonous.

A balanced diet provides a range of benefits for your digestive system, ensuring that it functions harmoniously. 

By choosing the right foods, you will be giving your body the nutrients it needs to function at its full potential.

Imagine enjoying smooth and efficient digestion, without the usual discomforts! Yes, this is possible when you incorporate a diet capable of helping you promote a balance in your intestinal tract.

More than that, a healthy diet can help prevent gastrointestinal problems and strengthen your immunity. 

By choosing fresh and natural foods, you will be providing your body with the essential nutrients that strengthen the digestive system and keep it protected against diseases.

But it doesn’t stop there! A proper diet can also boost your energy levels and promote overall well-being.

Find out now how a healthy diet can improve the health of your digestive system. Continue reading this article and learn more about the benefits of following a balanced diet.

5 Benefits of a healthy diet for the digestive system

When it comes to digestive health, a healthy diet is an important point that protects and strengthens our digestive system and body as a whole!

Here are five amazing benefits of adopting a balanced diet:

1- Reduction of the risk of digestive diseases

By adopting a balanced diet, rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing digestive diseases, such as ulcers, gastritis and even colon cancer.

A healthy diet strengthens the immune system, protecting our digestive system against infections and damage.

2- Improvement in nutrient absorption 

Healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are full of essential nutrients for our body. 

By consuming them regularly, the digestive system can better absorb these nutrients, ensuring that they are properly utilized by the body. 

This results in a better functioning of the body as a whole.

3- Regulation of intestinal transit 

Adequate fiber intake is crucial to maintain regular intestinal transit and prevent problems such as constipation and diarrhea.

A healthy diet, rich in fiber, helps to keep the intestine moving, promoting the elimination of waste efficiently and avoiding abdominal discomforts.

4- Prevention of inflammations and irritations 

Certain processed foods, rich in saturated fats and chemical additives, can cause inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract. 

By opting for a healthy diet, based on natural and fresh foods, we are providing nutrients that help to calm the digestive system, reducing inflammation and preventing discomforts, such as heartburn and reflux.

5- Increase in energy and disposition 

When we eat healthily, our body receives the necessary nutrients to function properly. 

A balanced diet provides quality energy, helping to maintain good physical and mental performance. 

In addition, healthy foods prevent excess weight and promote the maintenance of the ideal weight, which also contributes to greater disposition and overall well-being.

How to adopt a healthy diet in your daily life?

A balanced and nutritious diet can improve your health, provide lasting energy and even prevent chronic diseases. 

But how to incorporate this change in your busy day-to-day life?

Start with small steps. Often, the most effective change begins with small alterations. 

Instead of making a radical transformation overnight, start by adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your current diet. 

Make healthy substitutions, like swapping sodas for fruit-infused water.

Another important point is planning.

Take time to plan your meals and make a shopping list. Having healthy foods at hand avoids the temptation to make unhealthy choices. 

Prepare your meals in advance and take healthy snacks when you’re out of the house.

Varying your options can also help.

Try experimenting with different foods and recipes to avoid boredom. 

Explore new flavors and textures, including whole grains, lean proteins, fish, legumes, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats, such as avocado and nuts.

This diversity ensures that you get all the necessary nutrients.

But be careful. Be aware of what you’re putting on your plate. Read food labels and avoid those with high saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar content. Prefer natural and minimally processed foods, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Try to stay hydrated, as water plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy diet. 

Replace sugary drinks with water and drink regularly throughout the day. If you prefer something with flavor, try herbal teas or fruit-infused water.

And of course, moderation is key! 

While it’s important to make healthy choices, remember that moderation is essential. 

Don’t deprive yourself of foods you enjoy, but consume them in moderation. Balance your meals and savor each bite, paying attention to your body’s satiety signals.

Share your healthy eating goals with friends and family. They can offer support and motivation during the journey. 

Remember that adopting a healthy diet is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each achievement. 

Over time, these choices will become habits rooted in your lifestyle, providing a healthier life.

Conclusion 

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for everyone, especially for those facing gastrointestinal problems. 

In addition to preventing uncomfortable symptoms, it is crucial to ensure that the body receives all the necessary nutrients.

It is essential to avoid skipping meals and plan food choices to avoid unwanted excesses. 

In addition, proper hydration also plays an important role in promoting good digestion.

It is interesting to be aware of foods that may not sit well with you. 

If you notice that you experience discomfort after consuming them, it may be necessary to reduce your intake or find substitutes that provide the same nutrients, but without causing unpleasant side effects.

Variety is key to a healthy and enjoyable diet. 

Explore different options of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to ensure a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. 

Consider using lighter cooking methods, such as grilling or steaming.

Remember that each person is unique and has their own dietary needs. 

Thus, you will be able to enjoy a balanced and nutritious diet, promoting the health of your gastrointestinal system and your body as a whole.

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Health is a serious matter and undergoing certain clinical or surgical procedures at some stage is part of our life. Whether it’s routine in a check-up or for a specific event, aiming to ascertain or repair some irregularity, a visit to the doctor can happen at one time or another.

Such procedures range from the simplest to the most complex, from the most basic to the most advanced, such as, for example, a colostomy which is a very common procedure despite the name.

After hearing this name, which may be the first time you are hearing it, you must be wondering: but what is a colostomy?

We will help you find out from now on. Come with me…

What is a colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgical procedure used to connect a part of the large intestine to the abdominal wall, with the aim of allowing the exit of feces through an external bag.

More clearly, it consists of the externalization of a small piece of the intestine, through the abdominal wall, so that the intestine functions normally.

This type of procedure is performed when there is a problem that prevents the evacuation of feces naturally, through the anus.

Generally, this technique is used as part of the surgical treatment of some health problems, such as diverticulitis, obstructions and even in cancers of the gastrointestinal system.

Being more direct, it is a resource that serves to divert the transit of feces which, as said a little while ago, cannot be eliminated by performing the process of digestion and natural evacuation.

Despite being frequent in a situation seen as delicate, the colostomy, is used in cases also of less complexity for a short period of time. That is, the patient only uses the bag during the recovery period after surgery in the anal or intestinal region.

However, in a more serious occurrence, such as in cases of obstruction of part of the intestine, the bag is kept for a longer period.

The most common types of colostomies

However, there are other types of colostomies, among them the following stand out:

• Simple or terminal colostomy: When only the segment of intestine that carries the feces is externalized.
• Double barrel or loop colostomy: The two segments of the intestine (the one that carries the feces and the one that would receive) are externalized together through the same place, leaving the colostomy with “two mouths”.

When is this procedure indicated?

Although it is, most of the time, directly linked to intestinal problems, the colostomy may be necessary in other situations.

Recapping, primarily, it is used in situations that prevent the person from evacuating naturally, but, note the other cases:

• Non-existent anal opening;
• Blocked anus;
• Partial or total intestinal blockage;
• Colorectal cancer;
• Wounds and fistulas in the perineum;
• Severe intestinal infection;
• Severe inflammation of the colon;
• Familial adenomatous polyposis;
• Ulcerative rectocolitis.

What are the risks and benefits of colostomy surgery?

Even though it is a surgical procedure that somewhat takes our life out of normality, with more visits than usual to the hospital, going through moments like this can save our lives.

And every change brings with it risks and benefits, especially when we are referring to health which is a topic that cannot go unnoticed, even if it is of lesser complexity.

The colostomy, for example, like any other surgical procedure, has its degree of risk to be considered, however, there is also its benefit side.

Benefits

Its main benefit is to enable the return to normality of daily life. It allows the patient to perform all the activities he needs, whether personal or professional.

It literally means going back to living as before. Obviously, always paying special attention to the care that all post-surgical health status requires.

However, it is necessary to direct some attention to the risks that every surgical procedure brings, not because we are talking about colostomy, but in any type of surgical intervention.

Risks

The risks are due to complications that occasionally occur after the procedure, almost always at the site of the opening or cut of the stomach, the most recurrent complications being:

• Bleeding;
• Infections;
• Necrosis;
• Retraction;
• Dermatitis;
• Prolapse;
• Hernia.

What complications can occur with the colostomy?

The complications originated after the colostomy procedure can be in two ways, early or late.

Early complications usually occur immediately in the post-surgical period, being skin irritations, as well as the formation of hematomas that unfortunately appear at the site of the opening, or ostomy as it is known.

Late complications usually present themselves in a slightly longer period after surgery. The most frequent are:

• Stenosis: is the development of an excess of skin after the healing of the stoma;
• Ostomy prolapse: when part of the intestine is left out, caused by poor fixation of the stoma;
• Paraestomal hernia: swelling of the intestine under the skin due to the opening of the muscle tissue;
• Ostomy retraction: when the stoma is pulled into the abdomen due to tension;
• Necrosis: is the death of tissues at the site;
• Hemorrhage: loss of blood due to rupture of blood vessels near the site.

Care after surgeries

The care is the same normally employed in other surgical procedures, that is, from the use of medications and hygiene of the site aiming at its rapid healing to the protection of the stoma. In addition, whenever possible, expose the skin to the sun for a maximum of 20 minutes a day.

Want to know more, visit the website of the Brazilian Association of Ostomized (https://www.ostomizados.com/associacoes/associacoes.html).

These measures contribute significantly to the gradual return to normality.

An extra tip is always to keep an eye on the guidelines available in some information vehicles, especially on the internet that can give us a little help at any time, and about that, take the opportunity to follow the Gastroblog.

Follow our posts and get your doubts answered with the best possible guidance.

It will be a pleasure to receive you.

See you soon!

Do you know what the term dysphagia means? Have you heard this word somewhere before? If you have never heard a single mention of it, being a true first-time sailor, without knowing anything about it, let us tell you what it means.

Dysphagia is simply a difficulty swallowing, swallowing or ingesting liquids or solid foods, that is, taking the food bolus from the throat to the stomach, which can happen to anyone, at any age and at any time of life.

But, what are the causes and effects that dysphagia causes in our body?

Let’s, then, get to know each one.

Difficulty swallowing: Know the main causes

Talking about main causes when we refer to some symptom, most of the time is a bit complex and even a bit strange; because, the human body is always a mystery and each organism behaves in a way.

But, what about dysphagia?

But, in the case of dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, we basically know that it is an alteration that can be caused by structural or functional lesions of the esophagus region. The esophagus is a tube that carries food to the stomach, both liquids and solids.

For better understanding we divide these causes into three levels: simple, important and serious.

Simple causes

At first, referring to causes “simple“, they may not be some disease that brings concerns, but, just for a habit that is a villain not only for the health of our throat, but of the teeth and mouth in general.

I’m talking about incorrect feeding, caused by:

• A quick and inadequate chewing;
• Attempt to swallow very large foods;
• Very hot foods;
• Try to swallow while talking or laughing; 
• One of the worst, trying to eat almost lying down.

Many think that this is a big nonsense, not influencing anything, but if this was not so serious and directly affected our health, would other health professionals, besides gastroenterologists and dentists, also pass the same guidelines?

Of course not!

These guidelines, always insisted by our parents since childhood, which accompany us throughout life, make a lot of difference.

That’s because such bad habits can provoke the evolution of symptoms, such as functional or motor dysphagia, which are muscular or neurological disorders of the organs that are part of the swallowing process, that is, diseases of the muscles of the esophagus and the nerves make the esophagus work, scientifically speaking.

Did you see, how a simple detail, like eating calmly and quietly can have a positive and preventive effect for us?

If you have not followed these steps, through the ear pulls of parents until today, do not stop following them from now on, ok?

Important causes

In this second moment, let’s now, know some causes “important“, that require a little more attention and that can also be associated with difficulty swallowing, such as:

• Achalasia: it is a rare disorder that makes it difficult for liquids to enter the stomach which, in addition to difficulty swallowing, which is a typical characteristic, also has the presence of undesirable heartburn;
• Choking: It is a momentary respiratory paralysis caused by a blockage in the trachea, counting on cyanosis and coughs; and 
• Gastroesophageal reflux: it is the return of stomach acid, to the initial part of the trachea, triggering an irritation of the mucosa, also counting on symptoms such as: bitter mouth and cough after meals.

Did you see how the lack of basic care can, in the medium and long term, trigger the evolution to even greater discomforts?

Stay tuned!

Serious causes

And thirdly, about the causes “serious“, some are originated by slightly more severe problems, which can even be permanent, as described below:

• Stroke (CVA);
• Huntington’s disease;
• Parkinson’s disease;
• Multiple sclerosis;
• Alzheimer’s disease; 
• Cerebral palsy;
• Esophageal cancer.

Even a small discomfort, can become something more serious, so, after learning a little about the causes of dysphagia, let’s see how to diagnose?

How is the diagnosis of dysphagia made?

Know that if the person is with some of the primary symptoms reported earlier, staying for days, you should seek the specialist as soon as possible; because he will certainly perform some exams, such as, for example:

• Swallowing test: which aims to identify irregularities in the musculature of the mouth or throat;
• Digestive endoscopy: for analysis of the organs that make up the digestive system such as mouth, esophagus and stomach;
• X-ray with contrast: for a more precise visualization of the anatomy of the esophagus and stomach; 
• Manometry: more specific test to check the functioning of the muscles of the esophagus.

With the correct diagnosis in hand, it is much easier to start the correct treatment in advance and inhibit greater complications. So, how about knowing the most indicated treatments?

What are the most indicated treatments for dysphagia?

Entering now in the field of treatments, obviously all therapy should meet the focus of the problem, which will depend directly on what caused the difficulty swallowing.

The most known treatments are:

• Exercises for muscle strengthening: being the known rehabilitation therapies of the muscles responsible for the swallowing process;
• Medications: medications that control acid production may be indicated to aid in symptom control;
• Surgery: in more serious cases, the most indicated path may be surgical intervention. 

These are the important treatments, however, preventing by taking some precautions is still useful, see…

Care for those who are having difficulty swallowing

Knowing a little more about difficulty swallowing or dysphagia, its causes and the most appropriate treatments, some tips to avoid these undesirable symptoms are more than welcome.

And you even know what they are, recapping…

• Eating, avoiding very large foods, is indispensable;
• Vegetables and harder foods should be well cooked;
• Vary meals opting for soft foods like creamy soups, for example;
• Avoid thin juices, as they cause choking more easily; 
• Finally, chew food well.

Did you see how easy it is, observe our routine and correct small actions? Just follow some of these guidelines.

Conclusion

If you liked to know a little more about the subject difficulty swallowing, dysphagia, and want to always be aware of relevant information for the health of the digestive system, stay tuned to Gastroblog.

Gastroblog provides content aimed at updating interested patients on digestive system issues.

Our mission is to provide you with accurate information and safe guidelines.

We help you with whatever you need, count on us.

Having a healthy body is beneficial not only for your physical and immune health, but also for your mental health, significantly increasing your self-esteem.

The stomach is one of the vital organs of our body and should always be in good working condition.

But what to do to keep the stomach healthy? Well, this post was developed especially to give you tips on simple habits so that you can have a healthy stomach without worries.

Practical tips to keep your stomach healthy

There is not much secret when it comes to stomach health, because if you follow a series of simple and effective habits your stomach will be able to maintain good functioning.

See below practical tips to keep your stomach healthy and increase your quality of life.

Include more fiber in your daily diet

Fibers are characterized by being compounds of plant origin not digested by the body.

By including an adequate amount of fiber in your diet, they will help maintain a healthy stomach, as well as prevent and combat health problems such as obesity, diabetes, constipation and also cardiovascular diseases.

Another positive point of these compounds is that some fibers have a prebiotic effect. Therefore, they are a food for beneficial gut bacteria that strengthen the immune system.

There are two variations of fibers, soluble and insoluble, and most foods contain these two types of fibers. 

The daily fiber intake recommended for an adult varies from 25 to 38 grams.

Some of the foods with high fiber rates are:

• legumes: beans, lentils and chickpeas;
• whole grain breads and biscuits;
• grains, whole flours, bran: oats, rice and flaxseed;
• fruits: pineapple, banana, blackberry, cashew, mango and papaya;
• vegetables: pumpkin, lettuce, chard, broccoli and okra.

Consume foods rich in probiotics and prebiotics

Foods rich in probiotics are those that contain live microorganisms, the known beneficial bacteria. When correctly ingesting these microorganisms, they will act in promoting the balance of the intestinal microbiota.

Prebiotic foods, on the other hand, are those that contain food components that are not digestible and are derived from carbohydrates, such as fibers, which contribute greatly to the development of probiotics.

Thus, foods like natural yogurt, fermented milk, kombucha and kefir are rich in probiotics while foods like oats, apple, soy, onion and garlic are rich in prebiotics.

Stay physically active every day

Physical exercises are great for the human body, because when we exercise, our body can enjoy benefits such as increased disposition, muscle strengthening and stress reduction. In addition, exercises also contribute to the stomach functioning normally with a quick digestion.

Physical activities facilitate the passage of food through the intestine more effectively, increasing the speed of food bolus conduction and making future evacuation more effective.

Exercising properly can greatly help people who suffer from constipation and gas.

Limit the abuses of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco

Excessive alcohol, tobacco and caffeine are responsible for causing many damages to the human body, affecting both the stomach and the brain and liver.

Because of this, it is essential not to overdo the consumption of these components and keep your body hydrated.

Hydrate properly throughout the day

Water participates in all physiological processes of our body, helps in the transport of nutrients, enzymes, hormones and blood cells in the body, in addition to providing the correct functioning of the stomach

Therefore, it is extremely important to drink at least 2 liters of water daily to hydrate your body.

Opt for healthier desserts

It is possible to consume healthier desserts in order to avoid the problems caused by excess sugar.

Desserts and sweets that use a lot of sugar and chocolates harm the health of the stomach in several ways and can cause diseases.

There are several options for desserts with fruits, which are healthy and have high rates of vitamins for the body.

Warning signs that your stomach is not healthy

In the modern era we are always busy, with a routine full of tasks and chores. With this, it is common to forget to take care of our stomach health.

The result of this often are health problems that end up appearing over time. These problems can cause headaches and anxiety, in addition to the fact of disrupting the individual’s daily life.

Some warning signs that indicate that your stomach is not healthy are:

• Bad breath: caused by gum inflammation, periodontal inflammation, dental prostheses and tongue coating. Bad breath can also be an indication of the existence of gastrointestinal diseases, such as gastroesophageal reflux and bacterial infection of the stomach;
• Abdominal pains: abdominal pains may be linked to the malfunctioning of the stomach and the digestive system in general. When these pains are related to the digestive system, they concentrate in the upper region of the abdomen, being indications of diseases that develop in the stomach like ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastritis, gallstones and its inflammation. If you feel recurrent pains in the abdomen consult a doctor immediately;
• Gastroesophageal reflux: symptoms such as heartburn and burning are signs that are related to gastroesophageal reflux disease. This problem happens when the gastric juice returns to the esophagus and causes irritation in the organ with heartburn, burning, abdominal pain, regurgitation and even cough. Other problems that you should be aware of are frequent vomiting, weight loss, bleeding in stools, pains in the abdomen region and also the existence of a history of gastric cancer in the family;
• Diarrhea: when this problem continues for a significant time, more than a month, it can be a warning about the existence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as inflammatory bowel disease, food intolerances and even irritable bowel syndrome.

Conclusion

To keep your stomach healthy, free from diseases and with full functioning conditions, you should adopt some habits that may seem simple, but are very effective.

If you notice abnormalities in your body, seek a specialized doctor as soon as possible to make the correct diagnosis.

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Being in good health helps people not only to avoid the risks of developing various diseases, but also to increase their self-esteem, productivity and happiness.

Intestinal constipation or constipation is a problem responsible for causing great discomfort to several individuals, even hindering simple daily activities.

Knowing this, this post was developed so that you know everything about intestinal constipation or constipation, including its symptoms, how to detect them and what treatments are available.

Do you know what intestinal constipation or constipation is?

Intestinal constipation, better known as constipation, is an intestinal disorder caused by factors such as insufficient fiber in the body, low fluid intake, sedentary lifestyle, excess animal protein and poor bowel function.

This disease is characterized by difficulty in evacuating formed stools, resulting in several days or even weeks without the individual being able to evacuate.

Each person has a natural evacuation rhythm for their body, so some individuals can do this need up to three times a day while others do it three times a week, this is normal.

However, when this natural pattern is broken it results in an abnormal reduction of it, which is also accompanied by some symptoms such as intestinal pains, hardened stools, difficulty evacuating and even bleeding. This can light a warning signal.

The proper functioning of the intestine depends on some factors, such as water intake, ideal fiber consumption and physical activity.

High consumption of industrial origin foods can greatly harm your intestine and hinder fiber retention, as during the processing of these foods, fibers and proteins are often lost.

What symptoms are associated with constipation?

In addition to the deregulation of the number of times the individual can evacuate, constipation brings with it other symptoms that can vary from person to person.

Some symptoms are:

• Bloating and pain in the abdomen area;
• Feeling of unsuccessful evacuation;
• Excess gas;
• Digestive disorders;
• Irritability;
• Malaise.

What types of treatment are recommended for intestinal constipation? 

As intestinal constipation is based on poor bowel function, its treatments are directed to improve the quality and health of the digestive system in order to allow evacuations to be done normally.

Diet is the main cause of constipation. Therefore, regularly consuming fiber-rich foods is an excellent way to prevent this disorder.

Here are some fiber-rich foods:

• Vegetables: turnip, green corn, okra, tomato, radish, carrot, onion, beet, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, lettuce, watercress, pumpkin and potato;
• Legumes: peas, beans, soybeans, chickpeas and lentils;
• Fruits: apple, papaya, pineapple, avocado, passion fruit, watermelon, strawberry, pear, peach, cherry, guava and kiwi; 
• Whole flours, bran and grains: flaxseed, oats, rice, corn, wheat and barley;
• Whole grains.

In more severe cases, it is strongly recommended to seek help from a specialized professional to perform appropriate procedures to treat this condition.

It is worth noting that the use of laxative medicines should be done with strict control and certified guidance.

However, there are foods with laxative properties that you can consume to treat constipation. As an example, it is worth mentioning fruits like papaya and plum, in addition to bran, green juices and supplements that contain fibers.

What causes constipation and how can it be avoided?

Constipation is caused by a combination of factors such as: lack of physical exercise, a diet poor in terms of fiber, little intake of fluids (like water) and high consumption of industrialized foods.

Intestinal constipation may be related to other diseases of the rectum and colon, such as hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, diverticulosis and anal fissures. In addition, the use of certain medications and the occurrence of metabolic and neurological changes can be a precursor to this problem.

Other possible causes of constipation are stress, depression and anxiety which can also cause interference in the individual’s intestinal habits.

To avoid the appearance of intestinal constipation you should adopt some habits such as:

Have a balanced diet

Having a balanced and healthy diet brings several benefits to our life, promoting health and well-being, in addition to contributing to maintaining good bowel function.

Drink plenty of fluids

Our body needs fluids to stay alive. Water assists in digestive processes and helps in fiber retention.

It is recommended to drink at least two liters of water every day so that our body is in full conditions to perform its functions.

Try to reduce stress

Recurrent stress can cause great damage to health, including in the intestine which can have its functioning altered, causing problems such as constipation, gastritis and others.

It is essential to look for solutions that help reduce stress such as reading, meditation, changing the environment and practicing physical activities.

Practice physical exercises

Physical exercises are responsible for improving intestinal motility, reducing the chances of problems like constipation.

Do not take laxatives without medical supervision

Continuous use of laxatives, even more without medical supervision, can harm your health, resulting in problems like intestinal constipation.

Which health professional should you consult if you have frequent digestive problems? 

The diagnosis and referral of treatments for digestive problems should only be done by duly qualified doctors.

The coloproctologist is a professional specialized in diagnosing and treating not only intestinal constipation but also diseases of the large intestine, anus and colon.

He is qualified to perform exams such as endoanal ultrasonography, rectosigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy.

Conclusion

Intestinal constipation or constipation is a problem that has some causes such as the lack of adequate fiber consumption. 

In addition, constipation brings with it some symptoms that can be alleviated and prevented with the adoption of some habits in the person’s life.

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Gastritis is a condition that affects the inner lining of the stomach (mucosa), causing inflammation. It is a common change that can affect people of all ages and have various causes.

Continue reading and learn everything about this health problem, including its symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention.

What is gastritis?

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach mucosa, which can be acute or chronic. Acute gastritis is a temporary condition most commonly caused by factors such as bacterial infections, prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive alcohol intake.

Chronic gastritis, on the other hand, is a long-term condition caused by various factors, mainly chronic infection by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, but also by autoimmune disease or bile reflux.

Acute or chronic gastritis can manifest in the mucosa as reddened and inflamed areas along the stomach, called enanthematous gastritis, or appear as sores in the mucosa, called erosions, in this case being the gastritis called erosive.

Finally, gastritis can also be classified by the location where they appear, called antral gastritis (affect the part closest to the stomach exit), body gastritis (affect the area closest to the stomach entrance) or pangastritis, when they affect the entire stomach.

What are the symptoms of gastritis?

There are several symptoms, which can be mild or severe, that indicate the presence of gastritis. They vary from person to person, including asymptomatic people.

The most common symptoms of gastritis include abdominal pain or discomfort, which can be mild or strong, usually in the upper abdomen. This pain can be described as a burning sensation, pressure or tightness in the stomach or hunger, and may worsen after eating or during the night.

Other common symptoms of gastritis include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness (“full stomach”) after a small meal, indigestion, and heartburn.

These disease indicators can be triggered by spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, or other irritating foods.

In more severe cases, gastritis can lead to stomach ulcers or bleeding. Symptoms of stomach ulcers may include severe abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and vomiting with blood or dark stools.

It is important to note that these symptoms are also caused by other gastrointestinal conditions, such as acid reflux, peptic ulcers, or gastric cancer. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a specialist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How can gastritis be diagnosed?

The diagnosis of gastritis usually involves a complete medical evaluation, including medical history and physical examination.

The doctor may perform additional tests, including upper digestive endoscopy, in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the mouth and descends to the stomach to examine the lining of this region, diagnosing gastritis or other changes, and also, doing the research for stomach infection by the bacterium H. Pylori.

Risk factors for gastritis

The main risk factors for gastritis include:

Infection by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori is one of the main causes of gastritis. Infection with this bacterium is very common and can be transmitted mainly in childhood, from person to person, through contaminated food or water.

Prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are common drugs used to treat pain and inflammation. Prolonged use of these drugs can alter the stomach mucosa, causing gastritis.

Excessive consumption of alcohol and/or smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption, as well as smoking, can damage the stomach mucosa, leading to gastritis.

Emotional stress

Emotional changes and long periods of stress can affect the digestive system, increasing the risk of gastritis.

Autoimmune disease

Some autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease, increase the risk of gastritis.

Bile reflux

Bile reflux occurs when bile acids return from the small intestine to the stomach, causing inflammation of the stomach mucosa.

Advanced age

As we age, the stomach mucosa becomes more susceptible to damage, increasing the risk of gastritis.

It is important to note that not all people who have these risk factors will develop gastritis.

However, if you have one or more of these risk factors and are experiencing symptoms of the disease, it is important to urgently consult a specialist doctor.

Treatment and prevention of gastritis

The treatment of gastritis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. If gastritis is caused by infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, treatment may involve the use of antibiotics, in addition to medications to reduce stomach acidity.

When it is caused by prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the doctor may prescribe alternative medications to control pain and inflammation.

In general, the treatment of gastritis may involve lifestyle changes, including:

• Avoiding foods that irritate the stomach, such as spicy and acidic foods;
• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption;
• Avoiding high-fat foods;
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals;
• Taking medications to reduce stomach acidity, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as per medical guidance;
• Having regular medical follow-up and seeking a professional if the described signs are present.

The prevention of gastritis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors, such as those listed in this post.

This includes avoiding excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and, if possible, not consuming alcohol and tobacco, in addition to managing stress, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, practicing physical activities, and drinking plenty of water. In short, these are care that everyone should take.

If you have had gastritis before, it may be helpful not to consume foods that have made you sick, in addition to regularly monitoring your symptoms to detect possible early recurrences. It is also important to have frequent exams to avoid other stomach problems.

Conclusion

Gastritis is a condition more common than you think. Because it affects the lining of the stomach, often people do not seek the doctor if the symptoms are mild, such as heartburn.

However, upon noticing any sign of the disease, such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness after a small meal, indigestion, and heartburn, seek the help of a professional. Only then will you have more quality of life and health.

Maintaining a healthy gut is essential to ensure good nutrient absorption, prevent diseases, and promote overall body health. The intestine is responsible for digesting food and absorbing essential nutrients for body function.

It also houses a large amount of beneficial bacteria, which aid in digestion, strengthen the immune system, and prevent diseases.

Knowing this, we have prepared this post to show you the importance of having a healthy gut, in addition to listing simple habits that provide good intestinal health.

Importance of a healthy gut

The importance of the gut as an organ and its relationship with other body systems has been the subject of several scientific discoveries. Maintaining gut health is essential to balance the bacteria present in the organ, which promotes nutrient absorption and benefits overall health.

The imbalance of these bacteria is known as dysbiosis and can compromise the intestinal barrier, allowing particles to pass into the bloodstream and harm health. This imbalance can be caused by intestinal diseases, inadequate diet (such as excessive consumption of saturated fats, trans fats, alcohol and low fiber intake), smoking, medications, and stress.

The particles that pass through the intestinal barrier can trigger negative responses in the immune system, so it is important to maintain intestinal health and the balance of bacteria to assist the body’s defense.

The symptoms of dysbiosis include nausea, flatulence, abdominal distension, hair loss, weak nails, intestinal irregularity (alternation between diarrhea and constipation), poorly formed stools, headaches, among others.

It is important to talk to a health professional if you have symptoms or have questions about intestinal health.

5 simple habits for you to maintain good intestinal health

To keep your gut in good working condition it is important to follow some simple habits, but very effective when applied together for a considerable time.

Consume fiber-rich foods

The diet we follow has a significant impact on the gut microbiome, which is composed of many types of bacteria that live in our gut.

Scientific studies show that a Western diet, characterized by being rich in animal fats and proteins, but poor in fiber, can increase the production of compounds that cause inflammation and cancer in the body.

On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fiber and includes little consumption of red meat, has been associated with increased levels of short-chain fatty acids in the stool, which have anti-inflammatory properties and improve the health of the immune system.

Including fiber-rich foods is very important to keep your gut health up to date. Some options for fiber-rich foods include:

• Fresh fruits: orange, tangerine, papaya, fig, plum, mango, kiwi, pineapple, grape, among others;
• Dried fruits: black plum, apricot, dried fig, raisin;
• Whole grains: oat bran or wheat, wheat germ, flaxseed, whole grain bread, brown rice;
• Legumes: beans, lentils, chickpeas, soybeans;
• Vegetables: eggplant, broccoli, beans, asparagus, artichoke and preferably raw vegetables, such as chicory (escarole), lettuce, arugula.

Drink at least 2 liters of water daily

Drinking water is very important to maintain gut health, as water helps keep stools soft, facilitating evacuation, preventing constipation and stuck gut.

In addition, water helps maintain the balance of body fluids, which is essential for nutrient absorption and for the proper functioning of the digestive system as a whole.

It is recommended that adults drink at least 2 liters of water per day to maintain good hydration and intestinal health.

Here is a laxative juice recipe for you to make at home.

To prepare a 200 ml glass:

• 1/4 of papaya or 1 slice of formosa papaya;
• 1/2 glass of orange juice or juice from 1 orange unit;
• 4-5 dried plums (without pit).

Blend in a blender, strain and drink immediately. Preferably, do not use sugar or sweetener.

Eat probiotic and prebiotic foods regularly

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can exert beneficial effects on the intestinal flora, promoting improvements in intestinal transit and other benefits.

There are a variety of products available on the market that contain probiotics, such as yogurts and fermented milks, which usually contain lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates, mainly fibers, that stimulate the growth and/or activity of desirable bacteria in the gut.

They are found in foods such as onion, chicory, garlic, artichoke, cereals, asparagus, dandelion roots, beetroot, banana, wheat and tomato, as well as honey and brown sugar and in tubers like yacon.

Practice physical exercises daily

Regular physical exercise can improve gut health. Several studies have shown that physical activity can help prevent and treat intestinal problems such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and even colon cancer.

Exercise can help regulate intestinal transit, promoting an increase in the frequency and consistency of bowel movements. In addition, physical activity also helps reduce inflammation in the gut, which is an important factor in many intestinal diseases.

The practice of physical exercises is also useful to improve the composition of the gut microbiota, increasing the diversity of beneficial bacteria and reducing the presence of pathogenic bacteria. This contributes to gut health and the prevention of intestinal diseases.

Include detoxifying foods in your diet

Some foods considered “detoxifying” can contribute to improving gut health, especially foods like kale, beetroot, fresh parsley, and whole grains.

These foods help increase fiber intake, which is important for maintaining regular bowel movements and eliminating toxins and waste.

Some foods contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the gut.

Conclusion

Maintaining a healthy gut is essential to ensure physical and mental well-being. This can be achieved through a balanced diet, rich in fiber and probiotic foods, as well as regular physical activity, stress reduction, and the adoption of other healthy habits.

Intestinal problems are common and are among the most unpleasant symptoms a person can face at some point. The causes are numerous and really should receive due care, especially when it comes to the digestive system that should have our special attention.

One of the symptoms, for example, totally linked to our daily habits is excessive flatulence, which as we can understand is the increase in gases that we eliminate as a result of the incomplete digestive process.

Excessive flatulence can affect quality of life and have embarrassing consequences. Learn more about the main causes and treatments to reduce the problem.

Excessive flatulence

Firstly, flatulence is the elimination of gases coming from the intestine through the rectum, as a result of the digestion process and also of the gases swallowed while we eat or speak, being one of the natural functions of the human body. However, the indication of some irregularity is exactly its high frequency.

According to data from a detailed survey conducted by an American gastroenterology magazine, it is normal for a person in good health to eliminate between 500 to 1400 ml of gas per day, that is, a number around a maximum of 20 eliminations.

We emphasize that certain variations of these data may occur, as it is necessary to consider each circumstance in which the person who is feeling the symptoms is located.

The excess is precisely found when these eliminations exceed this reference number, adding, still, discomfort such as colic and pains in the abdominal region, that well-known feeling of a full belly, originated by the concentration of gases.

The most important thing in these cases is to understand that, initially, this suggests some small irregularity caused by a deregulated diet, not a serious health problem, however, some care should be taken from then on.

Now, let’s delve a little deeper into the subject, seeing its causes and how we can treat this symptom.

Why does excessive flatulence occur?

Basically, common flatulence arises when foods, mainly carbohydrates, are not completely broken down in the passage through the stomach during metabolism, which is the digestion process.

In short, it is when digestion does not occur in its entirety, with the effective breakdown of consumed foods.

Excessive flatulence, as already mentioned, is the significant increase in these gases that, in addition to discomfort in the abdomen region, unfortunately causes certain embarrassment, especially if it occurs in a public environment.

Main causes of flatulence

The causes of excessive flatulence are specific and are directly linked to 3 factors: diet, sedentary lifestyle and gastrointestinal problems.

Notice how small details, within these 3 items, directly influence the onset of the symptom.

Foods

Even foods labeled as healthy can cause excessive flatulence. We list below some of the foods that most provoke this excess of gases.

See some of the foods that most provoke flatulence:

• fresh or dried fruits: plum, raisins, apple and pear;
• dairy products: milk and derivatives;
• vegetables: broccoli, onion, carrot, kale and cabbage;
• legumes: peas, beans, lentils;
• carbonated drinks: sparkling water, sodas and beers.

In everyday life, especially at meal times, most people have some natural habits that also provoke flatulence, such as:

• aerophagia: it is about swallowing air when eating, drinking, laughing and even while talking;
• ingesting huge amounts of food at once. (We heard from the elders: Eat slowly!);
• and the most famous of the mistakes we make when we eat, and that we don’t even realize, which is to chew food quickly and still with an open mouth.

If you are already a person who exercises regularly, being assiduous in the gym and consumes protein supplements, the famous whey protein, pay attention! Its consumption increases the production of gases.

A general tip, always recommended, is balance in food, after all, everything being consumed with awareness and in the right measure not only contributes, but improves our health over time.

Sedentary lifestyle

One of the great villains of 21st century health, sedentary lifestyle, is one of the provocateurs of excessive flatulence, because the lack of exercise makes the metabolism process slow, preventing the intestine from maintaining its normal flow, consequently, causing the accumulation of gases.

Therefore, even if you are not yet an adept of exercises, start changing your habits, initially including some outdoor walks and, later, progressing to other exercises such as cycling or even attending a gym.

Start a new phase in your life and start today to include the pleasure of sport in your routine.

Gastrointestinal diseases

The most common intestinal changes are: intestinal constipation, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s Disease), which diseases affect digestion and absorption, such as celiac disease and lactose intolerance, and irritable bowel syndrome.

These can be silent, and maintaining a routine of regular consultations, followed by exams when necessary, is more than enough for a healthy life and without the risk of excess gases.

Pay attention to other signs that arise along with the excess of gases, such as heartburn, bloating, bad breath, nausea, burning, hiccups and vomiting, as they may indicate other changes and need to be carefully evaluated.

How to prevent or treat the problem?

The basic rules, both to prevent and to treat, are the same, that is, it is about the usual companion: balance.

It may seem cliché, but at first the ideal is hydration, with the intake of approximately 2 liters of water per day.

Another indispensable item is to maintain a diet rich in grains, fibers, fresh fruits and vegetables. This includes avoiding the exaggeration of some of the foods listed in this article.

Such actions can help you create the habit of having moderation in food.

In addition, having meals calmly and chewing food well are other well-known guidelines, however, not executed. If they are actually followed, you will be surprised in a short time.

Conclusion

Did you notice how sometimes we make mistakes daily, even in the simplest actions, like eating?

The important thing is that you can change from now on, put in order what is disordered and return to enjoy full health.

All the actions we have learned so far, added to a daily routine of physical activities, will put you back on track and, in addition, provide a healthier and longer life.

Gastroblog

If you are new here and liked this content, stay with us as we will always bring information about diseases, symptoms and treatments, in a light and uncomplicated way.

Here your doubts will be answered and you will always find a novelty about prevention and the best treatments to assist in the maintenance of your gastrointestinal health.

We are here for you.

See you later.

Bariatric surgeries are an increasingly common option for those who struggle with chronic obesity. Although it is effective in promoting significant weight loss, this procedure also involves some risks. Therefore, anyone interested in the procedure needs to arm themselves with information before deciding on surgery.

In this article, we will show some points to consider before opting for bariatric surgery, including possible risks, types of bariatric surgeries, and indications.

What is bariatric surgery and how is it performed?

Bariatric surgery is an increasingly performed procedure, aimed at weight loss. It is indicated for people who cannot lose weight through conventional methods, such as diets and exercises. In bariatric surgeries, the surgeon alters the anatomy of the stomach and intestine to induce weight loss, and currently, there are two main types of procedures.

Vertical gastroplasty or sleeve

This method removes part of the stomach, leaving it in a tube shape, reducing its volume, without causing changes in the intestine. It is a type of surgery that leads to a decrease in the volume of food that the patient can ingest, leading to weight loss. Because of this mechanism, this type of surgery is called restrictive.

Gastric bypass or Reducing gastroplasty (Capella Surgery)

In this method, the stomach is separated by staples into two parts, leaving a small part connected to the esophagus (gastric reservoir), and the larger part separated from the rest. An anastomosis (junction) is also performed between the small intestine and this small part that remained of the stomach, causing the ingested food to end up “skipping an initial part of the intestine, decreasing its absorption. Thus the amount of food ingested is small (restrictive surgery), and its absorption decreased (disabsorptive surgery), being therefore the mechanism of weight loss of this type of surgery called mixed.

What to evaluate before the surgical procedure?

Bariatric surgery can be an effective way to treat obesity, but it is important to understand the risks and limitations before making this important decision. Therefore, patients should know all the facts about bariatric surgery, so that they can consciously decide if this is the best.

It is recommended to seek guidance from the doctor so that he can explain the risks involved. It is also important to remember that there will be a lifestyle change after the procedure. That is, the patient will need to follow a controlled diet and it will also be necessary to abandon sedentary lifestyle.

Bariatric surgery has different options, which should be discussed with the doctor to determine which one best suits the patient and their goals. In addition, the procedure also requires physical and mental preparation, so that the body and mind can cope well with the effects of the operation.

Evaluate your BMI

Bariatric surgery is an important option for weight loss, but before any decision, it is important to remember that it is vital to evaluate the patient’s BMI (Body Mass Index). This index is used to assess weight in relation to the patient’s height, and determine the nutritional status and diagnose obesity.

The BMI is calculated by dividing body weight by height squared. If the result of the BMI is between 25 and 30 the patient is overweight, if between 30 to 35 is considered with obesity grade I, between 35 and 40 obesity grade II and above 40 obesity grade III.

Bariatric surgeries today are indicated for patients with BMI between 35 and 40 who have comorbidities (diseases related to obesity) such as diabetes and arthrosis, and for everyone above BMI 40.

Important: For the patient to be considered fit to undergo surgery, the BMI needs to have been stable for at least 2 years.

Which surgery to choose?

This decision is based on BMI, patient characteristics, and surgeon’s choice. In general, vertical gastrectomy is the choice for patients who need less weight loss, and because it does not have anastomoses, it has a lower surgical risk. Reducing gastroplasty, on the other hand, is reserved for patients who need greater weight loss, but has risks of complications greater than vertical gastrectomy.

Before opting for the surgical procedure you need to have constant multidisciplinary team (doctors, nutritionists, physical education professionals and others) follow-up to ensure that the results of bariatric surgery are satisfactory.

Understand the limitations resulting from surgery

Bariatric surgery should not be considered as the miraculous cure for obesity. It is just the first step of the patient in the weight loss journey. It will be necessary to have determination and strength, as it will need to carry out a restrictive diet, physical exercises, and constant health evaluations. Thus, without the total determination and support of the patient, the weight loss result cannot be achieved.

Consider the risks of bariatric surgery

Studies suggest that the main risk factor for complications is extreme obesity, but factors such as general health and smoking should also be considered when assessing the risk of developing complications. However, with technological advances and dedicated patient care, the risks of bariatric surgery are reduced, allowing more and more people to benefit from surgery.

Complications can be different for each type of surgery, but the most common are

• Postoperative pain;
• Bleeding;
• Infections;
• Fistula;
• Pulmonary embolism.

It is worth remembering that all these complications have treatment, therefore, bariatric surgeries are considered safe procedures.

Before the patient agrees to undergo a surgical procedure, he needs to understand that the postoperative period will have a very different reality. Normally, the body receives fewer nutrients, and therefore the patient may have anemia, hair loss and even dental problems.

Conclusion

Deciding on bariatric surgery for weight loss is not a simple choice. As we have seen, there are prerequisites that will assess whether the patient fits the profile of this type of procedure, and which is the best for him. The interested party also needs to evaluate the risks and postoperative care.

Before opting for bariatric surgery, pay attention to our content on the subject. Here on Gastroblog, we bring complete and detailed information about this surgery, so that you make the best decision and transform your life, without any doubt about the procedure.

In addition, it is very important that you always talk to your doctor if bariatric surgery is the best option for you.