fuelmarketing, Author at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology of Utah

How Diet Affects IBS: Tips for Better Digestive Health

Posted on October 9, 2023October 9, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, IBS can significantly impact quality of life. One effective way to manage these symptoms is through dietary changes. We will delve into how diet influences IBS and provide actionable tips for better digestive health.

The Role of Diet in IBS

Trigger Foods

For many individuals with IBS, foods rich in fats, dairy, and certain types of carbohydrates—known as FODMAPs—can lead to symptoms. Other triggers might include spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages. Identifying and eliminating these triggers can significantly improve IBS symptoms.

Foods to Include

A balanced diet for someone with IBS might include lean proteins, low-FODMAP fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporating foods rich in soluble fiber can also be beneficial in regulating bowel movements.

IBS-Friendly Diet Plans

Several diet plans are specifically tailored for individuals with IBS. These plans generally focus on low-FODMAP foods and include soluble fiber to aid in digestion.

The Low-FODMAP Diet

This diet restricts various types of carbohydrates that are difficult to digest and likely to ferment in the gut, causing gas and discomfort. The elimination phase removes high-FODMAP foods for a few weeks. Reintroduction occurs gradually to gauge tolerance levels.

The Mediterranean Diet

Although not designed for IBS, the Mediterranean diet is often well-tolerated. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods and sugars that might aggravate IBS symptoms.

Dietary Supplements and Probiotics

Some people find relief from IBS symptoms by incorporating dietary supplements and probiotics into their routine. Fiber supplements can help regulate bowel movements, while probiotics can balance gut flora. However, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, as these supplements can also potentially worsen symptoms in some cases.

Monitoring and Adjustment

Managing IBS through diet can be a process of trial and error. It’s advisable to maintain a food diary to note which foods trigger symptoms and which offer relief. Over time, this can help tailor a dietary plan that minimizes discomfort and improves digestive health.

Dietary changes can have a profound effect on IBS symptoms. By identifying trigger foods and incorporating IBS-friendly diet plans and supplements, individuals can take significant steps toward better digestive health.

Struggling with IBS?

Are you struggling with IBS and need guidance from a medical expert? Reach out to us for a personalized consultation that can set you on the path toward better digestive health.

The Role of Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Health

Posted on September 11, 2023September 11, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Gastrointestinal issues are not only uncomfortable but may also indicate more serious underlying conditions. One of the key diagnostic tools in the field of gastroenterology is endoscopy. This procedure allows healthcare providers to visualize inside the gastrointestinal tract, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions. But what exactly is endoscopy, and how does it contribute to gastrointestinal health?

What Is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a medical procedure using a specialized instrument known as an endoscope. This device is a flexible, lighted tube with a miniature camera that allows doctors to view the interior lining of the digestive tract. An endoscope can be inserted through either the mouth or the anus, depending on which part of the gastrointestinal tract needs to be examined.

Types of Endoscopy

Three types of endoscopic procedures we use at Granite Peaks are:

Upper Endoscopy

This procedure examines the upper part of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. It is commonly performed to diagnose conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, and certain types of tumors.

Colonoscopy

A specialized form of endoscopy, colonoscopy is designed to examine the rectum, colon and cecum, where the small and large intestines meet. It is particularly useful for early detection of colorectal cancer and immediate removal of colon polyps. It also is used to diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis, and to investigate the cause of diarrhea, bleeding, anemia and many other conditions.

Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is most helpful for diagnosing conditions in the small intestine. This long, winding organ cannot be visualized with an ordinary endoscope. The patient swallows a small capsule with a camera inside. As the capsule travels through the digestive system, it records pictures of the inside of the intestine, providing valuable information for the gastroenterologist.

Benefits of Endoscopy

Accurate Diagnosis

The direct visualization of the gastrointestinal tract allows for a more accurate diagnosis than other imaging tests like X-rays and allows for biopsies to be taken to test for disease cells.

Minimally Invasive

Being less invasive compared to surgery, an endoscopy procedure poses fewer risks, and recovery is quick – just a few hours to recover from anesthesia.

Therapeutic Applications

Beyond diagnosis, endoscopy can also be used for treatment purposes. For instance, doctors can remove polyps during a colonoscopy or stop bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

Risks and Considerations

Although endoscopy is generally considered safe, there are risks as with any medical procedure, such as infection, bleeding, or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. Always discuss with your gastroenterologist whether endoscopy is the most appropriate diagnostic tool for your specific condition.

When Should You Consider an Endoscopy?

If you are experiencing symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or difficulty swallowing, your healthcare provider may recommend an endoscopic examination. Likewise, routine screenings like colonoscopies are recommended for individuals over the age of 45 as a preventative measure against colorectal cancer.

Endoscopy procedures play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal issues. The minimally invasive nature, coupled with the diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, makes endoscopy an invaluable tool in modern gastroenterology. If you are facing persistent gastrointestinal issues, consult your gastroenterology specialist to determine if endoscopy could be an appropriate step toward effectively managing your condition.

If you’re experiencing persistent gastrointestinal issues or are due for a routine screening, take control of your health today. Contact our specialized team to schedule an office visit or an endoscopy procedure and get the comprehensive care you deserve.

Things to know when taking semaglutide diabetic medications

Posted on August 15, 2023October 2, 2024 by fuelmarketing

Semaglutide Diabetic Medications – Did you know?

Did you know that semaglutide diabetic medications are also frequently used to aid weight loss? There are a couple of things to know if you use these products and have other medical procedures on the horizon.

Because semaglutide is a long-acting medication that can slow gastric emptying and increase the risk of aspiration during a procedure, ask your medical provider about the recommendations of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). They recommend patients stop semaglutide and similar medications well in advance of any sedated procedures. At Granite Peaks Gastroenterology and Endoscopy centers, our protocol is to stop these medications 7 days or even up to 2 weeks prior to a sedated procedure. This will depend on your individual medical history and the specific risks associated with your endoscopy at our facility or in the hospital.

It is important to follow your prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully when stopping semaglutide before an endoscopy or any sedated medical procedure.

Additional Tips

Additional tips for stopping semaglutide before a sedated medical procedure:

Talk to your prescribing doctor about safely stopping semaglutide. They may recommend that you taper your dose down over a few days or weeks.
Monitor your blood sugar levels closely after stopping semaglutide. Your blood sugar levels may rise, so it is important to be prepared to treat any high blood sugar episodes.
Be sure to have a plan in place for managing your diabetes during and after your endoscopy. This may include working with a diabetes educator or dietitian to create a meal plan and adjust your insulin doses.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure a safe and successful endoscopy or other medical procedure.

If you are taking any of the following medications or similar semaglutide or GLP-1 receptor agonists, please tell your provider’s office for specific instructions prior to your procedure.

Ozempic®

Rybelsus®

Mounjaro®

Wegovy ®

Common Misconceptions about Celiac Disease

Posted on July 18, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Celiac disease has gotten a lot of attention over the last few years. It’s part of why people are now so much more aware of the presence of gluten in foods. Despite how much more prevalent celiac disease seems these days, we would like to clear up a few misconceptions.

Celiac Disease Is the Same as a Gluten Allergy or Sensitivity

Lots of people claim they have gluten because of how it negatively affects them. This leads some people to use “celiac disease,” “gluten allergy,” and “gluten sensitivity” interchangeably. These are NOT the same thing. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder, whereas a gluten allergy or gluten sensitivity is considered a food intolerance.

Celiac Disease Only Affects the Digestive System

The most common effects of celiac disease revolve around the digestive system. Those with celiac disease who consume gluten will experience symptoms in their digestive system like bloating, gas, acid reflux, constipation, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Over time, the villi in the small intestine become blunted and ineffective at absorbing nutrients. This damage can become permanent. Also, some people with celiac disease develop dermatitis herpetiformis, a painful skin rash. Celiac disease can also result in joint pain, nutritional deficiencies, behavioral disorders, leaky gut, hair loss, and dental disorders.

A Gluten-Free Diet Is Automatically Healthier

Many people have tried removing gluten from their diet as a “healthy” choice, but people without celiac disease should consider that many products with gluten contain important nutrients that may be challenging to find elsewhere. Bread and cereals, common sources of gluten, can be higher in calories so people may avoid them to maintain their weight. However, long-term gluten-free living is not necessarily good for your gut. If you do not have an illness or sensitivity, you can include appropriate amounts of gluten in a healthy diet by choosing nutritious foods that include fiber and vitamins.

Those with celiac disease must exclude gluten to live without pain, illness and intestinal damage. A healthy, nutritious gluten-free diet requires you to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats. Include gluten-free whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and wild rice. Avoid grains including wheat, rye, and barley, as those all contain gluten.

If you’ve been diagnosed with celiac disease, it’s important to sort the correct information from disinformation. Make sure you get your information from reputable sources that have the background to give you reliable information. Remember, you can always ask your gastroenterologist any questions you might have about celiac disease, how it works, and what changes you should make so you can live a full, healthy life.

Wondering if you have celiac disease? Click here to see a list of celiac disease symptoms provided by Granite Peaks Gastroenterology.

Restoring Gut Health: How Gastroenterologists Tailor Treatments for Optimal Patient Outcomes

Posted on June 20, 2023June 20, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Gastroenterologists play a crucial role in restoring gut health and improving the overall well-being of patients. With their specialized training and expertise, they understand the complex nature of digestive disorders and employ a personalized approach to treatment. We will explore the multifaceted aspects of gut health restoration and how gastroenterologists tailor treatments for optimal patient outcomes.

Unveiling the Complexity of Gut Health

Your gastrointestinal tract is a complex system responsible for digestion, absorption of nutrients, and sending nutrients to the appropriate parts of the body. Gastroenterologists recognize that various factors, such as diet, lifestyle, genetics, and environmental influences, can impact gut health. Understanding this complexity is vital for tailoring treatments that address the specific needs of each patient. The most important factor influencing gut health is diet. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet helps to maintain the body’s natural balance of bacteria in the gut and can help reduce inflammation associated with certain conditions. Eating a variety of plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains can provide essential vitamins and minerals that support a healthy gut.

Diagnostic Tools and Technique

Gastroenterologists employ different diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately assess a patient’s digestive health. One of the most common methods is endoscopy, which allows the visualization of the inside of the digestive tract. Procedures like colonoscopy and upper endoscopy enable the identification of abnormalities, such as inflammation, ulcers, or tumors. Imaging techniques like CT scans and MRIs provide detailed images of the digestive organs, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment planning process. Gastroenterologists may utilize specialized tests to assess the functionality of the gut. These tests include stool analysis, breath tests, and blood work, which can help identify the presence of infections, food intolerances, or malabsorption issues. By combining these diagnostic tools and techniques, gastroenterologists can gain a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s gut health and tailor treatments accordingly.

Restoring Gut Health

Your digestive health is essential for overall physical and mental well-being. When the gut is unhealthy, it can lead to a wide range of issues, such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and even depression. Restoring gut health may require a holistic approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and supplementation. Dietary changes are key to restoring gut health. Eating a whole-foods-based diet and avoiding processed foods may be beneficial.

By understanding the complexity of gut health, utilizing diagnostic tools and techniques, and restoring gut health, these gastroenterologists strive to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from digestive disorders. Through their expertise and collaboration with patients, gastroenterologists pave the way for restoring gut health and achieving optimal well-being.

Make Sure to Have Your Gut Checked. Schedule an Appointment Here.

The Gut-Brain Connection: Understanding How Gut Health and Mental Well-being are Connected

Posted on May 5, 2023May 5, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Why are gastroenterologists interested in Mental Health Awareness month? The gut-brain connection is real and is a rapidly developing area of research. Numerous studies are recognizing how essential good gut health is for robust mental wellness – no surprise that our digestive system has earned itself the nickname, “the second brain.” In this blog post, we’ll discuss more about the relationship between digestion and cognition, analyze how a healthy gut and emotional well-being support each other, as well as offer practical advice for a healthy digestive system.

The Gut-Brain Connection

The gut-brain connection refers to the complex communication system between our digestive tract and our central nervous system. This communication is facilitated by the enteric nervous system (ENS), a network of neurons embedded in the lining of our gastrointestinal system. The ENS, together with the gut microbiome (the diverse population of bacteria living in our gut), can influence various aspects of brain function, including mood, cognition, and stress response.

How Gut Health and Mental Well-being Work Together

An imbalance in the gut microbiome, often referred to as dysbiosis, has been linked to various mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Likewise, mental health stresses can negatively affect the digestive system. Some possible mechanisms through which gut health and mental well-being are impacted include:

Production of neurotransmitters: Many neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation, are produced by gut bacteria.
Production of cortisol: Stress can over-produce the hormone cortisol, decreasing blood and oxygen flow, which in turn, can cause stomach cramping and discomfort.
Inflammation: An imbalanced gut microbiome can lead to inflammation, which can negatively affect brain function and contribute to mental health issues.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Gut and Healthy Mind

To support optimal gut health and promote mental well-being, consider incorporating these strategies:

Eat a diverse, fiber-rich diet: Consuming a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can provide the necessary nutrients and fiber to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Include probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotic-rich foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) provide beneficial bacteria, while prebiotic foods (e.g., bananas, asparagus, garlic) help nourish existing gut bacteria.
Manage stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, yoga, or exercise, to support both gut health and mental well-being.
Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, as sleep deprivation can negatively affect all aspects of your good health.

By understanding the gut-brain connection and adopting lifestyle habits that support your body, you can contribute to improved overall well-being and good health. Remember, taking care of your gut is not just about digestive health but also about nurturing your mind and emotional well-being.

Do you need to see a gastroenterologist? Click to request an appointment at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology today!

What To Do When You Experience Bloating

Posted on March 16, 2023 by fuelmarketing

We all suffer from that uncomfortable bloated feeling, on occasion. Bloating is an all-too-common digestive issue that can be caused by a number of things, including serious conditions or medications. Sometimes it’s as simple as overeating or eating too quickly that can cause your stomach to act up. But don’t worry—there are easy solutions! Here we’ll share three simple tips for reducing bloating: eat slower, keep good posture while eating, and take a walk afterwards. Making these small changes in your day can help improve your digestion and make your bloat vanish before you know it!

Eat Slower

The first thing to help prevent bloating from ever starting is to eat slowly. Eating too quickly can cause you to swallow more air with your food, leading to bloat and discomfort. Take time to thoroughly chew your food to break down the food particles, making them easier to digest. To eat slower, try putting your utensils down between bites, taking small sips of water, and engaging in conversation with others at the table.

Sit Up Straighter

Your mother was on to something here! When your stomach feels bloated try sitting up straight while eating. Not sitting upright while you eat can impede the digestive process and lead to bloating. With improved posture, your digestive system will function better and avoid uncomfortable gas build up. This is also a great way to enhance your core strength and overall spinal health by reducing strain on the back muscles. So remember: when it’s mealtime – sit up straight to beat the bloat!

Take a Walk

Stroll away your digestive discomfort by taking a walk after eating. Walking helps to get things moving in your digestive system, aiding your food’s journey through your gut, and diminishing trapped air that can lead to bloating. Plus, it keeps you healthy – raising physical activity levels; lowering stress; and enhancing mood!

Bloating can be unpleasant and distressing. Try these easy tips to reduce or manage it. If your bloating persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as abdominal pain or diarrhea, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, and you should consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause an appropriate treatment.

Be sure to look out for these other signs that it’s time to visit your gastroenterologist!

Give Yourself a Fighting Chance Against Colon Cancer

Posted on March 1, 2023February 24, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Colon cancer is serious. It’s the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths for men and women in their respective categories. If you combine men and women, it jumps to the second leading cause. While some risk factors are out of your control, such as age or race, there are lifestyle factors that may impact your risk and are within your control.

45 is the New 50 – Get Screened!

The new recommended age for those at average risk to begin screening for colon cancer is 45. Why? The western sedentary lifestyle and diet have increased the risk of developing colon cancer at a younger age. If you have a family history of colon cancer, your doctor will likely recommend a screening at an even younger age. Know your family history – it could save your life!

Diet

A typical Western diet may put you at higher risk of developing colon cancer, among other health issues. The Western diet is characterized by low fiber, high fat and high calorie, high salt processed foods. You may be able to lower your risk of developing colon cancer by including more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. These foods provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and ample amounts of fiber – all the “good for you” qualities in food!

Physical Activity Levels

More and more people live increasingly sedentary lifestyles putting you at a higher risk of developing colon cancer. Reduce your risk by being physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. You don’t have to get all of your activity in at once. Try getting up and moving for 5-10 minutes at a time repeatedly throughout the day. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about increasing your physical activity.

Weight

Obesity doesn’t just increase your risk of developing colon cancer–it also increases your risk of dying from it in comparison to those with a normal weight. Talk to your doctor about weight loss goals so they can help you develop a healthy, realistic plan to meet them. Some insurances will even help patients attain weight management services. Remember, significant weight loss takes time, patience and persistence.

While the exact cause of colon cancer remains unknown, we do know that certain lifestyle factors increase your risk of developing it. Give yourself a fighting chance to live a long, healthy life. Take care of your body and get screened today. The specialists at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology are in your corner.

Things You Can Do at Home to Alleviate Constipation

Posted on January 18, 2023January 17, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Start Here for Constipation Relief

Constipation is a common condition that can affect anyone at any age. For adults, it may show as infrequent bowel movements (3 or fewer per week) or having difficulty passing stools. Good digestive health helps you feel your best, so the discomfort and sluggish feeling constipation causes can be frustrating and if it goes on too long, can also lead to other issues such as hemorrhoids. There are some things you can try at home for occasional constipation.

Hydrate

One of the colon’s most important functions is to absorb water from food. If you don’t drink enough water, your colon won’t be able to absorb enough water and create the right stool consistency. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to soften stools and make them easier to pass. Drinking throughout the day ensures that your body has the constant supply of water it needs to function properly.

Move

Being physically active positively impacts virtually all aspects of your health, including your digestion. Even something as simple as walking for 10-15 minutes can help your guts process food better and minimize constipation. As you move, your muscles contract, gently massaging your intestines, helping food move through the digestive tract. Try taking a short walk after you eat to stimulate your digestive system. Take walks during breaks at work or other scheduled intervals during the day too.

Eat More Fiber

Fiber is well known for its role in keeping your digestive system regular. What type of fiber you eat makes a difference. If you’re dealing with constipation, try adding more insoluble fiber to your diet. Insoluble fiber keeps your colon from absorbing quite as much water. That increases the water content of your stools and makes them easier to pass. You can get insoluble fiber from foods like whole rice, broccoli, green beans, cabbage, whole grains, beans, nuts, and cauliflower. Add fiber gradually over several days. Increasing your intake too quickly could lead to symptoms like gas, bloating, and cramps–you don’t want to trade one intestinal problem for another.

If you’re experiencing constipation, try making positive changes to your water intake, physical activity levels, and your diet. Talk to your doctor if any of your medications cause constipation. If simple lifestyle changes aren’t enough to address your constipation and if it becomes a chronic issue, talk to one of the specialists at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology. They know how to help you get back to a more “regular” life.

Thinking You May Have Crohn’s? Maybe Not.

Posted on December 14, 2022August 29, 2023 by fuelmarketing

Having painful digestive symptoms can be difficult to explain to a doctor and hard to pinpoint. Sometimes symptoms may flare up when you eat certain foods or experience high-stress levels or may randomly happen. Crohn’s disease is characterized by long-term digestive tract inflammation which may cause belly pain, diarrhea, bleeding, tiredness, and weight loss. The tricky thing about Crohn’s disease is that those symptoms are very similar to other digestive conditions, so much so that there are some conditions that you may mistake for Crohn’s disease. Your gastroenterologist is the right person to do appropriate tests and identify whether it’s Crohn’s or something else.

Celiac Disease

Those who have celiac disease are unable to digest gluten. Instead of being digested, gluten damages and eventually destroys the intestinal villi. Over time, this prevents nutrient absorption and causes growth and additional physical ailments. Professional diagnosis is important since those with celiac disease may experience weight loss, diarrhea, and tiredness and those with Crohn’s disease may also have trouble with gluten.

Food Intolerances or Allergies

Your digestive system normally does a good job breaking down and absorbing food. If it doesn’t work with certain foods, you may have a food intolerance. Similarly, your body’s immune system is designed to protect you against foreign invaders and dangerous substances, but it may overreact to harmless foods. When this happens, it’s called a food allergy. Both intolerances and allergies have symptoms similar to Crohn’s such as belly pain and cramps, diarrhea, and nausea.

Diverticulitis

As you age, your intestines develop small bulging pouches, primarily in the colon, called diverticula. They’re mostly harmless until they become inflamed or infected. When that happens, it’s known as diverticulitis. Symptoms include lower gut pain that lasts a few days, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, all of which are also symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease.

Don’t Self-Diagnose

All the conditions mentioned here require medical diagnosis and intervention to prevent further damage to your digestive system. See your Granite Peaks gastroenterologist to get a professional diagnosis and care plan to manage your digestive health. Correctly identifying the issue is key to getting the care you need.

For this reason, make an appointment to see a gastroenterologist sooner rather than later so you know the issue and how to address it.

Learn more about Crohn’s disease and other conditions with which the gastroenterologists at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology can help! Start here to learn about Crohn’s!