If you feel ill with fever, flu-like symptoms or respiratory illness, please call us to reschedule your appointment. Please Do Not Bring Children Under age 16 to Appointments.

How Diet Affects IBS: Tips for Better Digestive Health

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.

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

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

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

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!

An Introduction to the Mediterranean Diet

The health benefits of the Mediterranean Diet are real. Physicians and dietitians suggest it for many patients to improve their health and lower their risk of chronic health conditions.

Jump To:

What is the Mediterranean Diet

Health benefits

7 helpful tips to get started

 

If you’ve considered making changes to your diet in order to live a healthier life, you’ve probably looked at many different options. It makes sense that fueling your body with healthful, natural foods will produce higher levels of energy and healthy results for your entire body. The Mediterranean style of eating can help you do just that.

 

What is the Mediterranean Diet

The “Mediterranean Diet” is a style of eating based on traditional foods found in the areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea like Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. Research shows people who ate the types of foods found here were generally healthy and had a lowered risk of many chronic health conditions. The general guidelines include eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, nuts, legumes, seeds, and healthy fats. Refined grains, processed foods, and added sugars are generally restricted, however, you can still have well-chosen snacks and desserts!

 

The Health Benefits

What does this sort of eating style offer you? Reported benefits include promoting heart health, supporting healthy blood sugar levels, and protecting brain function. The foods commonly consumed as a part of the Mediterranean diet provide a variety of nutrients that are essential to good health. These include vitamins, minerals, water, fiber, and healthy fats. We suggest this diet to many patients to support good digestive and overall health.

 

7 Helpful Tips to Get Started

As with any diet, especially if you have digestive health issues, check with your doctor or dietitian before making big changes. Small changes are a good way to begin incorporating healthy choices into your diet over time.

  • Meal plan! Search online for recipes and ingredient lists.
  • Try including more produce in your diet.
  • Choose fish, seafood, and poultry. Reduce amount of red and processed meats.
  • Nuts, seeds and legumes make delicious, satisfying snacks.
  • Experiment with herbs and spices in food and beverages.
  • You can still have grains! Choose whole grains and fats over refined versions.
  • Avoid drinking your calories. Make water your go-to beverage. You’ll be surprised how quickly this becomes a new preference for you!

 

When you eat Mediterranean-style, you quickly realize that you are not dieting at all. You are living your life fully by fueling your body with nutritious, delicious foods that bring you more energy and better health. Not a bad deal!

 

Talk to your doctor and discuss how to incorporate the Mediterranean diet into your health plan.

 

Do you have concerns about your gastroenterological health? Granite Peaks Gastroenterology can help! Click here to request your appointment with one of our gastroenterologists today!

What Is the Western Diet and What Does It Mean for Your Health?

You have heard of different popular diets. However, the “Western Diet” is a generalization regarding the poor diet many Americans are thought to eat on a regular basis and what it might mean for your health, overall.

 

The Western Diet

The Western diet is a modern diet where prepackaged foods, refined grains, fried foods, high-fat dairy products, processed meats, conventionally raised animal products, red meat, eggs, potatoes, corn, high-sugar drinks, and candy and sweets are common and consumed in large quantities (think “super-size”). Healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fish, and pasture-raised animal products are high in fiber, complex carbohydrates, protein and important nutrients.

 

The Impact on Digestive Health

Everyone likes something a little fatty, sweet or fried every so often. However, a regular diet high in those types of foods is considered unhealthy. These food choices tend to be low in fiber and high in fats and refined sugars. High fat diets harm your gut microbiome and can increase inflammation markers, making your body more prone to obesity and subsequent chronic diseases. The low fiber content in processed foods makes them less filling and satisfying, and can lead to constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and stomach pain among other digestive ailments.

 

The Health Implications of the Western Diet

The overall health implications of eating poorly can be alarming. It has been linked to conditions such as obesity, cancer, and diabetes. It can also lead to liver disease and cardiovascular disease.

 

What about nutrition? The foods common to the Western diet tend to be very calorie dense and low in nutrients. Over time, which can cause a person to suffer from being under-nourished, which is distinct from being underfed, in this case. Poor nutrition negatively impacts your health and quality of life.

 

Change Your Diet to Change Your Health

Learn as much as you can about food and the impact it has on your health. Use what you learn to make smart decisions that will benefit your health and well-being, and help you get the most nutritional value out of the foods you put in your body.

 

Your Granite Peaks gastroenterologist can help you determine whether your diet is helping or hurting you, and what you can do to improve your digestive health conditions.

Which Diet is Right For You?

By Andrew M. Heiner, MD

Almost everyone tries a diet at some point in his or her life. With so many diets out there it can be difficult to choose the one that is best suited to your individual needs. Many choose a specific diet with hopes of losing weight. Some choose to diet to help alleviate specific medical conditions. And others may choose to diet simply to feel more energetic.

Many diets are popular today: Keto, Whole 30, Paleo, Intermittent Fasting, WW®, Gluten Free, FODMAP, and others. These all have  specific advantages and should be used with specific goals in mind based on the individual’s unique situation.

Numerous medical conditions are treated first-line with dietary maneuvers: fatty liver, type II diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, inflammatory conditions, etc. Physical activity is usually incorporated to enhance the health benefits of a diet and should not be overlooked.

Many people have gastrointestinal symptoms that may require special attention in addition to dietary change. Indigestion, bloating, heartburn, excessive gas, weight gain, weight loss, diarrhea, constipation, nausea or vomiting may signal that a specific problem needs to be addressed.

Whatever your reason for seeking a different diet and lifestyle, we at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology can help tailor a program to your needs while feeling confident that you are not ignoring a more serious or dangerous medical condition. Contact our Sandy or Lehi office for an appointment today.

3 Sneaky Places Dairy Might Be Hiding

There are many people worldwide who have some degree of lactose intolerance. For some, the symptoms may be as mild as minor bloating and a little extra gas. For others, consuming dairy may result in more severe gastric distress or for those who have a true allergy, anaphylaxis can occur. Avoiding dairy products may seem simple, but there are a few places you may find dairy that would surprise you.

 

Chewing Gum

It sounds crazy, right? Most of the time, chewing gum is safe for lactose intolerant people, but there is one ingredient that could have a significant effect on those with a lactose allergy.  Recaldent is an additive that is derived from milk and is used by some brands of chewing gum to strengthen teeth’s enamel with calcium and phosphate. If you’re not sure, check with your doctor or dentist before using a new product for the first time.

 

Processed Meats

Processed meats are a food that should be a limited part of anyone’s diet. Fillers in certain types of processed meats (hot dogs and deli meat) may include whey, made from milk protein and lactose. An additional risk is meat that is cut on the same slicer as deli cheeses. Be cautious if you have issues with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

 

Alcohol

If you’re a social or recreational drinker, you might want to think twice before reaching for a new beer or wine that you’ve never had before. Sometimes, milk and its derivatives are used in the process of making such beverages. Vegan alcoholic beverages will always be free of dairy and its derivatives.

 

For the most part, avoiding dairy foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream will take care of most of your lactose intolerance symptoms. To stay symptom-free always check the ingredients label before purchasing a new food to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

 

Not sure if you are lactose intolerant? Check out the Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance to learn more. The specialists at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology can help you pinpoint the cause of your digestive health symptoms and help you make choices to keep you feeling your best.

The Holidays are on the Way – Keep Your Gut Health in Check!

Let’s face it. Many of us tend to over-indulge during the holidays. So many wonderful foods you only see at this time of year can be hard to pass up, but sometimes it’s worth the pass to not deal with the gas. Gas, bloating, acid reflux, and gut pain can all be part of the “joys” of the holidays if you suffer with digestive health challenges.

 

Be Mindful of Your Choices

Be aware of the foods you can’t seem to resist and think carefully about how you feel after you eat them. If you’re able to have a small amount of a favorite food, go for it! Enjoy every moment of the smell, taste and texture of that small serving. You’ll probably find the smaller serving is just right for you.

If you have a condition such as celiac disease or lactose intolerance, even small amounts of offending foods can be devastating to your digestive system. There are more fantastic gluten-free or lactose-free options for all types of foods than ever before at your local grocery store. You can have your treat and eat it too!

Foods high in sugar or sweeteners can make certain conditions, such as acid reflux, worse and they can have a negative effect on your gut and other organs. When you can, choose natural sweeteners in limited quantity to make your holiday treats sweet.

 

Don’t Make the Holiday a Drag

Shoot for the dishes you can enjoy without experiencing painful symptoms. To be sure you can enjoy your favorites by bringing safe dishes to share at important gatherings. Your host will love the help and you’ll have more fun!

Eating foods that taste great for a moment but take you out of the action aren’t going to help you enjoy your holidays. Aim for healthy foods that help you stay feeling your best. It will also help you keep your weight in check and avoid those extra holiday pounds.

 

When Your Digestive Issues Need Attention

If you have been having persistent digestive issues, now is the time to get checked out. Afterall, you can’t fix a problem if you’re not sure what the problem is. People sometimes suffer longer than necessary with symptoms such as acid reflux, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive ailments. See a gastroenterology specialist at Granite Peaks Gastroenterology to find the cause of your symptoms. An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward feeling your best, for the holidays and every day.

Great Choices for Your Teen with Celiac Disease

There are many children, teens, and adults with dietary restrictions of one sort or another, that people regularly ask about food allergies before offering food to anyone. Nut allergies, gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance are becoming more common in young people. Celiac disease can make it tough to keep your child on track since gluten can be in unexpected foods, but you can teach them how to make safe choices.

 

First Things First – Get an Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment

Be sure your child is diagnosed by a gastroenterologist to be sure you are only dealing with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. There could be added conditions causing similar symptoms. Your physician will have advice for how to properly treat any current damage and avoid more damage to the intestine. Medications, nutritional support (critical for celiac kids) and ongoing supervision of their progress is important to healing and thriving.

 

Educate Yourself and Your Teen About Their Food

Today, there are more choices available in stores to help you develop a healthy, well-rounded diet for your child without them feeling “different” or deprived. Healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, and dairy products are part of a healthy diet. Replacing wheat with other foods such as quinoa, rice, gluten-free flours, coconut flour are easy to find and delicious options for favorite meals. There are gluten-free versions of many foods such as GF pasta, breads, pizza, soy sauce, and other condiments, so they can eat their favorites without suffering for it.

 

Empower Them

Do your research, partner with their gastroenterologist, and teach your child what celiac disease is and why it is so important to their overall health to be vigilant with their food choices. Keep the dialog going. show them what to look for in various foods. Help them learn how to ask about food preparation in restaurants so they feel confident and in control of what they consume. There are online resources available, such as the Celiac Foundation to help your teen learn how to live with celiac disease and feel their best.

 

Talk to your teen’s physician and a gastroenterology specialist at Granite Peaks GI to begin the process of healing and moving forward toward their best health.

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