Back pain is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. It can be caused by factors such as poor posture, injury, or worsening conditions like arthritis. However, not many people are aware that spinal problems can also impact digestion. This is because the central nervous system (CNS) plays a significant role in controlling the movement and function of the muscles and organs in the digestive system. When the CNS is disrupted, it can lead to digestive problems, such as bloating, gas, and constipation. Also, spinal misalignments can cause nerve pinches that affect the communication between the CNS and the digestive system. This can lead to further digestive issues, such as acid reflux, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It is important to note that not all digestive issues are caused by spinal problems. However, if you have back pain and digestive problems, you should talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine whether your symptoms are related to spinal issues and suggest appropriate treatment options.
Our microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit our bodies, primarily in our gastrointestinal tract, but also on our skin and in other areas. This community consists of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, collectively playing a crucial role in maintaining our health and well-being. The gut microbiome, in particular, is home to trillions of microorganisms, with hundreds of different species. These microbes contribute to various physiological functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, immune system regulation, and even influencing our mood and behavior. A balanced and diverse microbiome is associated with better overall health, while disruptions in its composition, known as dysbiosis, have been linked to various health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and autoimmune disorders What are Probiotics? Probiotics have garnered increasing attention recently for their potential to support gut health and overall well-being. But what exactly are probiotics? Simply put, probiotics are live microorganisms that have health benefits to the host when consumed in adequate amounts. These microorganisms, often referred to as "friendly" or "good" bacteria, can be found naturally in certain foods like yogurt, kefir, fermented vegetables, and dietary supplements. They primarily consist of strains of bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, known for their beneficial effects on the gut.
Probiotics have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential to manage various gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Amidst the ever-expanding array of health supplements, probiotics stand out for their purported ability to rebalance the gut microbiota, the complex community of microorganisms residing in the intestines. In this article, we delve into the efficacy of probiotics in alleviating specific symptoms, starting with diarrhea. We explore the evidence supporting their use in both prevention and treatment, highlighting recommended strains and dosages for optimal outcomes. Furthermore, we examine their role in addressing constipation and bloating, shedding light on the mechanisms through which probiotics may exert their beneficial effects. Through a comprehensive review of research findings, we aim to provide clarity on the potential benefits of probiotics for symptom management and offer guidance on selecting suitable strains for individual needs.
In this guide, we explore the uses of probiotics, beginning with their role in managing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Moving beyond IBS health, probiotics are important in nurturing a flourishing gut microbiome, supporting digestive health, and avoiding a range of conditions, from digestive disorders to much more. Additionally, probiotics hold specific benefits for women's health, including reproductive health support, urinary tract infectio prevention, and management of hormonal fluctuations across different life stages.
Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics represent a trinity of microbial-based therapies that are revolutionizing our understanding of health and nutrition. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are often referred to as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria and are typically found in fermented foods or dietary supplements. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are compounds in food that induce the growth or activity of beneficial microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. They act as food for probiotics and are found in fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Postbiotics are the biochemical byproducts of probiotic bacteria, which can also have health-promoting properties. These include substances like organic acids, bacteriocins, enzymes, and other metabolic products that can influence the gut environment. Together, these biotics play a crucial role in maintaining gut health, supporting digestion, and enhancing immune function, marking a significant shift towards a more holistic approach in dietary science and medicine.
Diverticulitis is a condition where parts of the bowel become inflamed or infected. The bowel is a muscular tube with a smooth wall that stool (poop) can pass along easily, helped by contractions of the gut muscles. As we age, our bowel can develop small outpouchings which are known as diverticula, and we think this is likely to be due to not eating enough fiber in our diet. Diverticula are very common and become more common with increasing age. This means that in the US about half of all people have at least one large bowel diverticula by the age of 50, and by the age of 80 about 70% of people have them. In around three quarters of people with diverticula, there are no symptoms and they cause no harm. However, if these pockets get inflamed or infected – typically because of poop becoming trapped in them - this is known as diverticulitis and about 20% of people with diverticula will experience this at some time. People with a sudden flare of diverticulitis will suffer from constant abdominal pain, usually in the left lower side, that comes and goes but is usually worse after eating, and gets better after passing gas or stool. Other symptoms include constipation or diarrhea, mucus or blood in the stool, and a fever. You can become quite ill. Diverticulitis is diagnosed by your doctor after examining you, or from what is seen on either a CT scan or a colonoscopy (a camera placed inside the rectum). Occasionally, if you have no relevant symptoms or only mild tummy pain and occasional bleeding from the rectum, diverticula may be seen as an incidental finding if you have a scan for another reason, and this is of little significance.
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a very common problem that many people will encounter at some stage in their life. Many people do not seek medical attention for them, so it is unknown exactly how common they are. They are enlarged blood vessels in and around the anus which look like small lumps that can be red or purplish. Symptoms of piles can include blood after you go for a poop. They can also cause pain or itching around the anus. The blood from piles will usually be bright red, and usually seen on wiping or on top of the stools. People can also have no symptoms at all. Sometimes piles can become thrombosed, which means they have no blood flow due to the blood clotting in the vessel. These are very painful and tender to touch, sometimes described as looking like a painful purple grape. Piles are not contagious, and cannot be passed on.
Pregnancy can bring on unexpected changes, and unfortunately, piles – or hemorrhoids, as doctors call them – are one of these surprises. Piles occur when swelling forms in the blood vessels (veins) around the rectum. These can become engorged with blood and look and feel like little pink cushions. Piles are ubiquitous in the general population, affecting both men and women. Still, pregnancy makes them more likely, due to the pressure from your growing baby, increased hormones such as progesterone that cause veins to relax, and straining for a bowel movement, as you’re more likely to be constipated in pregnancy.
Ranitidine is an acid-suppressant medicine that has been widely used. If you have been prescribed ranitidine previously, then you may be aware that it is currently unavailable in the United States. All ranitidine products have been discontinued until further notice due to contamination with a substance called N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). NDMA is a substance that is thought to cause cancer. It is found in very low amounts in foods, including roasted meats, cheese and beer and is safe to ingest at low levels. Studies are investigating whether NDMA has been produced from the breakdown of ranitidine and if this happens inside the body.
Gastritis means that the lining of the stomach is inflamed. You may feel a gnawing or burning pain in your tummy, just above the belly button, a feeling of fullness or bloating, nausea or vomiting, and you may suffer belching. It’s closely related to acid reflux, and you may experience heartburn or discomfort in your chest or throat after eating. If prolonged, it’s important that it is recognized and treated, as it carries a risk of stomach ulcers, which is serious. You should avoid anything that makes it worse – there are well-known triggers – and seek medication if things aren’t improving.
An anal fissure is a tear in the anus. It can be small and clear up on its own, or because of its location, it can be painful and difficult to treat. Anal fissures are not as common as piles (hemorrhoids but can affect as many as 1 in 10 people in their lifetime. People with anal symptoms may experience sharp pain when trying to poop, which can last several hours afterward. They can also get a small amount of bright red blood on the tissue or in the bowl. The anal ring is a type of muscular mucosal tissue, much like the lips are. If you can imagine getting cracked lips in the cold, this can be painful but also difficult to mend as it’s a moist area.
Symprove is a water-based food supplement that contains live bacteria formulated to aid gut health and promote healthy gut flora. The aim of Symprove is to get good bacteria past the stomach without being digested and broken down, and land in the intestines where the body’s microbiome of good bacteria exists. In the ever-evolving health and wellness landscape, the spotlight on gut health has grown significantly. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts, have emerged as key players in supporting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome. Among the myriad probiotic options, Symprove stands out as a liquid probiotic formulation with a unique approach to fostering a healthy gut environment. This article aims to delve into the science behind Symprove, exploring its composition, mechanisms of action, and the potential benefits it may offer in promoting digestive wellness.