Constipation—We See It EverydaySep 18, 2022We've all experienced constipation, yet it continues to be a hush-hush topic often swept under the rug. Constipation is one of the most common digestive issues in the United States.Continue reading →
Benefits of Vitamin B12Aug 13, 2022What is Vitamin B12? Vitamin is a nutrient is known for keeping your body's blood and nerve cells in healthy condition and helps make DNA which makes the genetic material inside our bodies. Continue reading →
Dealing with Gas and BloatingJul 31, 2022Everyone has gas. But how do we control it? I'll explain it. Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal. To minimize gas and any embarrassment, take a look at your diet and eating habits. Continue reading →
Sleep Deprivation and the GutJul 20, 2022Have you found yourself sleep-deprived? Have you been stressed lately? Do you suffer from GERD? Does your stomach suffer from bloating or inflammation? As we all may know sleep is very important for our well-being it helps our body... Continue reading →
Carbs and Your HealthJul 04, 2022What are Carbs? Carbs (or starches) are not bad. They are not the "enemy" nor should be avoided in a balanced and healthy diet. Federal Dietary Guidelines recommend that 45% to 65% of daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Continue reading →
The Importance of Your DietJun 16, 2022Everyone knows having a healthy body, in general, is good for you so it should come as no surprise that having a healthy diet is one of the keys to maintaining your overall health and preventing sickness. Continue reading →
The Gut Microbiome and Mental HealthJun 14, 2022Have you found yourself anxious before? Have you found yourself depressed? Have you felt stomach ache before an important life event? The gut has always been linked with the brain the CNS (Central Nervous system) hormones in our brain send signals... Continue reading →
The Importance of Your MicrobiomeJun 01, 2022Everyone knows having a healthy body, in general, is good for you so it should come as no surprise that having a healthy gut is also critical. But just how important is a healthy gut for our overall health? Continue reading →
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)May 09, 2022What is IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is commonly used as an umbrella term to describe a wide range of clinical symptoms related to diarrhea, constipation, cramps, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Continue reading →
Diverticular DiseaseMay 03, 2022What is diverticulosis? Many people have small pouches in their colon (large intestine) that bulge outward creating what is called a diverticulum. This condition is also known as "diverticulosis." Continue reading →
Treating Heartburn and GERDApr 13, 2022What is GERD? Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is present when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes or does not close properly and stomach contents reflux into the esophagus. Continue reading →
Are Proton Pump Inhibitors PPIs Safe?Apr 06, 2022What are some of the latest facts on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and long-term safety? A recent, large placebo-controlled trial of 17,598 participants confirmed the safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Continue reading →
Dealing with Bloating and GasMar 28, 2022Everyone has gas. Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal but because it is embarrassing to burp or pass gas, many people believe they pass gas "too often" or have "too much" gas. Continue reading →
Prevention, Detection, and Treatment of Colorectal CancerMar 09, 2022Why all the new news? We have been seeing it in the media. Reading the posts. The articles. As a gastroenterologist in clinical practice—seeing it firsthand. This past month alone I have treated a 30-year-old woman with a remote (not first-degree)...Continue reading →
Basics on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)Mar 01, 2022What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic disorder that causes constant inflammation of the digestive tract. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has two (2) forms; Ulcerative Colitis...Continue reading →
The Importance of Your Gut HealthFeb 12, 2022Everyone knows having a healthy body, in general, is good for you so it should come as no surprise that having a healthy gut is also critical. But just how important is a healthy gut for our overall health?Continue reading →
Treating and Living with Crohn's DiseaseJan 26, 2022Half a million people in the US have Crohn's Disease. Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes serious inflammation and scarring of your digestive tract. Continue reading →
Your Gut Health and Your BrainJan 12, 2022Your gut and brain are directly connected to each other and can influence how the other operates. The human gut and brain are primarily connected by the vagus nerve, which allows for bidirectional communication between your brain and your gut.Continue reading →
Hemorrhoids—Ouch!Jan 06, 2022What are hemorrhoids? The term hemorrhoids refer to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed. They can burn, itch, and bleed. Who gets hemorrhoids? You may have hemorrhoids and not even know it. Continue reading →
Thoughts on Bacon, Processed Meats from a GastroenterologistDec 25, 2021I grew up in the 1970s and 1980s without any meat, fish, or poultry. My parents made that decision for us. I started eating fish in college and now I consume fish, maybe once a week, but most of my protein is plant-based and supplemented with tofu,...Continue reading →
The Big "F" Word: "Fatigue"Nov 16, 2021What is chronic fatigue? Certainly, we've all felt tired at some point in our lives. However, there is a difference between being occasionally tired and chronically tired. Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis,... Continue reading →
Food & MoodNov 09, 2021What is the link between the gut and the brain? We've all heard of the "gut feeling" as an intuitive feeling. However, well beyond intuition, the science of the gut-brain interconnection indicates how gut bacteria produce various neurotransmitters...Continue reading →
Liver Health and COVID-19Nov 04, 2021Nutrition so important for liver health, so what should you eat to ensure that your liver can function normally? If you’re a liver patient, adjust your diet to meet your individual needs, and always talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.Continue reading →
Fatty Liver Disease and Your Liver HealthOct 28, 2021Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or "fatty liver" is common. It affects approximately 75 to 100 million adults in the United States. That is 25% to 45% of all US adults. NAFLD or fatty liver is the leading cause of chronic liver disease.Continue reading →
Calming Ulcerative Colitis with FiberOct 24, 2021Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic and autoimmune disorder that affects a wide variety of people.Continue reading →
Identifying Sugar Alcohols in FoodOct 19, 2021Sugar alcohols are a type of alternative carbohydrate that can cause symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).Continue reading →
Processed Meats and a Higher Risk of Colorectal CancerOct 11, 2021Processed meat was categorized as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Studies have linked processed meats to an increased risk of colon cancer, as well as heart disease and diabetes.Continue reading →
For "Gut’s" Sake: My Gut, My Brain, My Stress!Oct 10, 2021In the U.S, high levels of stress have long been a problem. U.S statistics show (The American Institute of Stress, 2019): 77% of people experience stress that affects their physical health.Continue reading →
What is the cause of IBS?Sep 16, 2021Millions of people in the United States quietly suffer from digestive problems such as stomach pain, bloating, and cramping. Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is characterized by these symptoms.Continue reading →
Fish Consumption and Mercury LevelsAug 30, 2021Let's dive right in: fish are incredibly nutritious and are an active source of high-quality protein. This is because they contain essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) that support your digestive tract. Continue reading →
The Keto Diet and YouAug 21, 2021What can happen from a lack of carbohydrates? Carbohydrates frequently receive a poor image, particularly when it comes to weight gain.Continue reading →
A Good Heart Starts in the GutAug 21, 2021What is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or system? The gastrointestinal (GI) has many functions. The digestive tract breaks down nutrients the body absorbs and uses them for energy helps eliminate waste and allows us to live.Continue reading →
The Truth Behind CarbohydratesJun 24, 2021Let's get right to it: carbs are not bad. They are not the "enemy" and are essential in a balanced and healthy diet. It’s important that you eat carbs from healthy sources and eat a balanced and nutritious diet. Continue reading →
Do I Need a Colon Cleanser?Jun 20, 2021During a colon cleanse large amounts of water—sometimes as much as 16 gallons (about 60 liters)—are flushed through the colon, as well as substances such as herbs and coffee.Continue reading →
Keto Diet, Weight Loss, and BalanceApr 16, 2021What happens if you eliminate carbs? Here are some thoughts from a Gastroenterologist...not to upset anyone.Continue reading →
What are Hemorrhoids?Mar 25, 2021If you have ever experienced a sharp, pinching, prickly sensation around your anus followed by temporary or persistent discomfort, pain, and bleeding then you might have hemorrhoids. Don't worry, hemorrhoids are fairly common, affecting nearly....Continue reading →
What is Fecal Incontinence?Mar 15, 2021Fecal incontinence refers to the inability to control bowel movements. This can include minor leakage or complete elimination of bowels. Although typically thought of as something that only the elderly tend to suffer from, fecal incontinence ...Continue reading →
What Colorectal Cancer Resources are Available to Me?Feb 28, 2021The Colorectal Cancer Outreach Program (CRC POP) aims to connect patients to colorectal cancer support resources quickly and conveniently. All patients need to do is .Text “COLON” to 484848, and they will be given a link to a master page that details...Continue reading →
Heartburn, GERD, Acid Reflux—What is this?Feb 11, 2021Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is present when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes or does not close properly and stomach contents reflux into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts...Continue reading →
What is Peptic Ulcer Disease?Feb 06, 2021Peptic ulcer disease refers to painful sores in the stomach lining or the duodenum, which is the first portion of the small intestine. A dense layer of mucus typically covers the stomach lining. Ulcers occur when this mucosal layer is impaired...Continue reading →
Colorectal Cancer Provider Outreach Program (CRC POP)Jan 25, 2021How the CRC POP is bridging the gap between the leading national colorectal cancer organizations, GI doctors, Colorectal Surgeons, and patients to create a clear direction for newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients. Continue reading →
The Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening ActJan 25, 2021The President recently signed the Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening Act (otherwise known as the Medicare Loophole bill) into law: What does this mean? Continue reading →
What is Crohn's Disease?Jan 17, 2021Crohn's disease is a form of irritable bowel disease (IBD). It causes the digestive tract to become inflamed, which leads to stomach pain, extreme diarrhea, tiredness, weight loss, and malnutrition. Inflammation caused by Crohn's disease...Continue reading →
Constipation—Know the FactsJan 09, 2021We've all experienced constipation, yet it continues to be a hush-hush topic often swept under the rug. Constipation is one of the most common digestive issues in the United States. In general, 16 out of 100 adults experience constipation...Continue reading →
The Best Diets of 2020 Revisited—Shared by a Gastroenterologist Dec 30, 2020Personally, I like a sustainable, healthy, balanced approach to diet and nutrition. I love the Mediterranean Diet.Continue reading →
"45 is the New 50" When it Comes to Colorectal Cancer ScreeningDec 25, 2020Prolific "Black Panther" star, Chadwick Boseman, died earlier this year after fighting a silent four year battle against colon cancer. Boseman was only 43 at the time of his death and is among one of many colon cancer cases on the rise among...Continue reading →
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?Dec 17, 2020Picture this: your stomach cramps up and you are overwhelmed by an intense burning sensation that sends you flying to the restroom at speeds you didn't know you were capable of. You break out into a sweat...Continue reading →
Is Intermittent Fasting For Me?Dec 12, 2020What is intermittent fasting? What are the benefits of intermittent fasting? Does intermittent fasting lead to weight loss? What is the intermittent fasting schedule? Is intermittent fasting for women? For men? What are the intermittent fasting results...Continue reading →
Colorectal Cancer Screening Before Age 50?Dec 02, 2020Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Several organizations have long recommended regular colorectal cancer screening for US adults ages 50 to 75, based on the proven life-saving value and reduced mortality (deContinue reading →
Are "Carbs" Really Bad To Eat?Nov 25, 2020Let's get right to it. Carbs (or starches) are not bad. They are not the "enemy" nor should be avoided in a balanced and healthy diet. Federal Dietary Guidelines recommend 45% to 65% of daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Continue reading →
Liver Health for a Healthy Life & Concerns with COVID-19Nov 15, 2020Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or "fatty liver" is common. It affects approximately 75 to 100 million adults in the United States. That is 25% to 45% of all US adults. NAFLD or fatty liver is the leading cause of chronic liver disease. Continue reading →
What is "IBD"?Nov 02, 2020You probably know at least a handful of people who suffer from one form of inflammatory bowel disease (IB, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (UC). Continue reading →
If Your Gut Could TalkOct 04, 2020If you could speak to your gut, what would you tell it? Perhaps: Why do you always make weird noises at the worst moments?Continue reading →
The Best Probiotic Foods for a Healthy GutSep 17, 2020You probably know that the foods you eat can affect your body in different ways. But did you know how many different ways you can be affected?Continue reading →
COVID-19 and Your Gut HealthSep 08, 2020COVID-19 has taken a drastic toll on millions of individuals and families worldwide. New developments are coming out every day. You would think that ...Continue reading →
Why Knowing Your Medical History MattersAug 26, 2020You're at your doctor's office for a check-up. Along with the other paperwork you have to fill out, you are given a "Medical History Form." Continue reading →
4 Easy Hacks to Improve Your Gut HealthAug 19, 2020Have you ever experienced bloating, constipation, or cramping? Chances are, you probably said yes. Continue reading →
The Gut-Brain Connection (aka the Gut-Brain Axis)—Why does it matter?Aug 09, 2020Have you ever felt butterflies in your stomach? Had a gut-wrenching experience? Felt sick before an exam or an important presentation? Continue reading →
Everything You Need to Know About ProbioticsAug 09, 2020Recent studies have been exploring the use of probiotics to reduce symptoms of numerous gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Results have been mixed, making it difficult for scientists to come to solid conclusions. Continue reading →
Breaking Down Lactose IntoleranceAug 01, 2020Lactose intolerance affects many people worldwide, and some people don't even know that they're lactose intolerant. This blog post explains more about the causes, symptoms, and ways to treat lactose intolerance. Continue reading →
4 Common Myths About Colon CancerJul 31, 2020As prevalent as colon cancer is nowadays, it's shocking to see how much misinformation is being spread around. In this post, I'll be disproving 4 of the most common myths about colon cancer.Continue reading →
What is "IBS"?Jul 28, 2020You've probably experienced stomach pain, bloating, and cramping before, right? That is normal. However, if it becomes chronic and recurring, you may have Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS. Read on to learn more about the symptoms and treatments for IBS.Continue reading →
What is a "Diet" to me?—A few thoughts from a Gastroenterologist in 2020May 01, 2020It took me many years in clinical practice as a Gastroenterologist to find the "diet" for me. There is no one right "diet" or pattern of dietary choices that are the best fit for everyone. Continue reading →
What can I eat? Plant-Based Diets—Part 2Apr 05, 2020A plant-based diet is one that focuses on foods from "plant sources" or consuming "mostly" or "only" foods that come from plants. Sounds impossible to you? It's not. Continue reading →
Plant-Based Diets—Part 1Mar 28, 2020A plant-based diet is focused on foods from "plant sources" or consuming "mostly" or "only" foods that come from plants. Sounds impossible to you? It is not.Continue reading →
Is Intermittent Fasting Healthy?—Part 2Mar 27, 2020When you hear the word "fasting" plus "diet" in the same sentence, you probably think of a "fad" diet. However, there is now more and more research suggesting that having "super low-calorie days," or "fasting," mixed into...Continue reading →
Diverticulitis—Here are the AnswersMar 08, 2020Many people have small pouches in their colon (large intestine) that bulge outward creating what is called a diverticulum. This condition is also known as "diverticulosis." The condition becomes more....Continue reading →
Diverticular BleedingMar 08, 2020Many people have small pouches in their colon (large intestine) that bulge outward creating what is called a diverticulum. This condition is also known as "diverticulosis." Continue reading →
The Best Diets of 2020—Shared by a GastroenterologistJan 12, 2020Personally, I like a sustainable, healthy, balanced approach to diet and nutrition. I love the Mediterranean Diet.Continue reading →
What is Intermittent Fasting?Jan 12, 2020When you hear the word "fasting" plus "diet" in the same sentence, you probably think of a "fad" diet. However, there is now more and more research suggesting that having some "super low-calorie days," or "fasting,"...Continue reading →
The Blood Type DietDec 05, 2019What is The Blood Type Diet? By eating a diet based on your blood type (either blood type O, A, B, or AB); you will be able to stay lean and healthy according to the diet's founder, a naturopathic physician, Peter J. D'Adamo.Continue reading →
Heartburn, GERD, PPIs, Endoscopic Treatment, or SurgeryNov 17, 2019Is endoscopic therapy, rather than surgical therapy, a treatment option for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? As more and more patients are interested in stopping chronic medical therapy with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)Continue reading →
Gas, Bloating, Food Choices, and Eating BehaviorsOct 10, 2019Everyone has gas. How do eating behaviors and habits cause gas? I'll explain it Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal.Continue reading →
Gas, Bloating, and Natural RemediesSep 15, 2019Everyone has gas. Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal but because it is embarrassing to burp or pass gas, many people believe they pass gas "too often" or have "too much" gas.Continue reading →
Safety of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)Sep 01, 2019A recent, large placebo-controlled trial of 17,598 participants confirmed the safety of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).Continue reading →
Connecting My Gut and My HeartAug 19, 2019The gastrointestinal (GI) tract does many things. It transports food, converts food into energy and nutrients, helps eliminate waste, and allows us to live. It is now known, that the GI tract or GI system involves many components of immunity...Continue reading →
Keto Diet and Weight Loss—A Few Thoughts From a Gastroenterologist Aug 12, 2019What happens if you eliminate carbs? Here are some thoughts Continue reading →
Do I now need colorectal cancer screening before age 50?Aug 03, 2019Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Several organizations have long recommended regular colorectal cancer screening for US adults ages 50 to 75, based on the proven life-saving value and reduced mortalityContinue reading →
Leaky Gut Syndrome. Is This For Real?Jul 28, 2019 The term “leaky gut” is also called "increased intestinal permeability." If the mucosal barrier that lines your intestines or gut becomes "damaged"—it has been proposed you have a “leaky gut” or "increased intestinal permeability."Continue reading →
Addicted to SugarJul 23, 2019Sugar. It is everywhere. It is literally embedded in our diet and our lives. The choice to consume sugar on a regular basis is becoming more and more in your control.Continue reading →
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS); Bloating, Diarrhea, Constipation, and CrampingJul 19, 2019Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common "label" people use to describe a wide range of clinical symptoms related to diarrhea, constipation, cramps, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. There are strict criteria (Rome IV criteria) that are used to define..Continue reading →
Fiber and Disease PreventionJul 08, 2019Nutrition experts and the latest national dietary guidelines advise us that fiber will provide you better health. Continue reading →
Your Microbiome and You | Part 1 of 2Jun 24, 2019What is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or system? The gastrointestinal (GI) tract does many things. It transports food, converts food into energy and nutrients, helps eliminate waste, and allows us to live. Continue reading →
Your Microbiome and You | Part 2 of 2Jun 24, 2019What are the symptoms of an altered microbiome? When the delicate balance of your microbiome is thrown off, here is how you can tell clinically.Continue reading →
Colon Cleansers and Colonics. What are the facts?Jun 10, 2019You do not need to take colon cleansers or colonic enema irrigations (colonics). Neither has any proven benefit and can even be harmful.Continue reading →
Carbs. The Good. The Bad. The Truth.Jun 02, 2019Let's get right to it. Carbs (or starches) are not bad. They are not the "enemy" nor should be avoided in a balanced and healthy diet. Federal Dietary Guidelines recommend 45% to 65% of daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Continue reading →
Healthy Eating is Easy and a ChoiceMay 31, 2019After over 14 years in clinical practice as a Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist focused on GI and Liver diseases, what I thought I already knew has become even clearer: Physicians are provided very little formal training on nutrition and diet...Continue reading →
"Diet", Weight Loss, Healthy Eating, and a Gastroenterologist's ChoiceMay 19, 2019 It took me many years in clinical practice as a Gastroenterologist to find the right diet. I shifted my diet and eating back in October 2018. There has been some flexibility since, but overall my eating patterns, choices, and diet have changed. Continue reading →
Poop. We All Do It. Some Less Than Others.May 13, 2019Constipation can be defined as less than three spontaneous bowel movements a week with infrequent, hard stools that may require straining and an incomplete sense of evacuation.Continue reading →
Hemorrhoids—A real pain in the ass!May 05, 2019The term hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed. They can burn, itch, and bleed. Continue reading →
Flatulence, Bloating, and GasApr 29, 2019Everyone has gas. Burping or passing gas through the rectum is normal but because it is embarrassing to burp or pass gas, many people believe they pass gas "too often" or have "too much" gas.Continue reading →
Bacon, Processed Meats, and a Higher Risk of Colorectal Cancer. It's your choice.Apr 22, 2019I grew up in the 1970s and 1980s without any meat, fish, or poultry. My parents made that decision for us. Continue reading →
Diverticulosis and NutsApr 15, 2019Many people have small pouches in their colon (large intestine) that bulge outward creating what is called a diverticulum. This condition is also known as diverticulosis. Continue reading →
The Truth About Colon CleansersApr 07, 20191. You do not need to take colon cleansers or colonic enema irrigations (colonics). Neither has any proven benefit and can even be harmful.Continue reading →
Heartburn, GERD, Acid Reflux—Are They Dangerous?Mar 31, 2019Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is present when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes or does not close properly and stomach contents reflux into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that acts...Continue reading →
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Your DietMar 24, 2019Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common "label" people use to describe a wide range of clinical symptoms related to diarrhea, constipation, cramps, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. There are strict criteria (Rome IV criteria)...Continue reading →
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) affects 25% to 45% of US adultsMar 18, 2019Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or "fatty liver" is common. It affects approximately 75 to 100 million adults in the United States. That is 25% to 45% of all US adults. NAFLD or fatty liver is the leading cause of chronic liver disease.Continue reading →
Constipation—You Are Not AloneMar 11, 2019Constipation can be defined as less than three spontaneous bowel movements a week with infrequent, hard stools that may require straining and an incomplete sense of evacuation.Continue reading →
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness MonthFeb 28, 2019We have been seeing it in the media. Reading the posts. The articles. As a gastroenterologist in clinical practice—seeing it firsthand.Continue reading →
What is "Nutrition"? | Blog of the BasicsFeb 13, 2019After over 14 years in clinical practice as a Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist focused on GI and Liver diseases, what I thought I already knew has become even clearer: Physicians are provided very little formal training....Continue reading →
What is a "Diet"?Feb 03, 2019It took me many years in clinical practice as a Gastroenterologist to find the right diet to support. The right "diet" for me. Continue reading →