Gastro Girl

Hold the Worms: Can Sushi Really Make Me Sick?

2007-10-22T14:14:00.000-04:00

I love sushi. Not sure if it's really the taste, texture and wasabi that I get cravings for or the longing for the ritual of eating daintily with chopsticks off of cool, Asian pottery that makes me drool. But I do know this my sushi days may be over after I read a recent report that warns that eating raw or undercooked seafood--such as sushi and sashimi--increases my risk of infection by parasitic worm larvae.

Eew. I just lost my appetite for anything edible.

Of course there is always a risk getting sick when you eat anything raw--but I'm a little freaked out after hearing that there may be little worm eggs in my sushi that could cause severe stomach and intestinal problems such as diarrhea, cramping and vomiting--symptoms so bad that could land me in a hospital emergency room.

Raw or undercooked seafood can contain larvae of a parasitic worm called Anisakis (round worm). While the worm itself can't survive in humans, the larvae can attach to the tissues lining the stomach and intestines, resulting in severe abdominal symptoms, Japanese researchers said.

Here is a photo of raw grouper with the larvae:

Ok, so the researchers say that in most cases, the larvae eventually die, and the symptoms usually resolve on their own. But some people may experience small bowel obstruction.

If anisakiasis is in your stomach doctors can easily diagnose this by endoscopy, but it's much more difficult to diagnose if it's in your small intestine, according to the Japanese study.

It's important to note that Anisakiasis symptoms can mimic those of other digestive problems and may be misdiagnosed as appendicitis, stomach ulcers, or peritonitis, according to the researchers.

So should you avoid sushi? Well, that's up to you. The study didn't say not to eat sushi or sashimi--but as for me, it may not be anytime soon.

Source: Science Daily

Natural Resistant Starch: Does This Old Fiber Have Modern Health Benefits?

2007-10-17T13:40:00.000-04:00

I came across a study published in Nutrition Today that suggested we may be overlooking the potential health benefits of natural resistant starch. I thought to myself, what is this stuff anyway? And it certainly doesn't sound very appetizing either. I breathed relief when I learned that natural resistant starch is a type of dietary fiber that is consumed in a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods such as beans, bananas and cold potatoes--and even my favorite legume--lentils.

Curious, I did some exploring and found that a recent conference, "The New Fiber Story: Natural Resistant Starch," brought together top experts from around the world who touted the health benefits of natural resistant starch that somehow ferments in the large intestine. And guess what? They say this dietary fiber could help with weight control, diabetes management and digestive health.

"The key to these benefits is the way resistant starch is digested, said Dr. David Topping a senior scientist, CSIRO National Research Flagships, Australia. While most starches are digested in the small intestine and absorbed as sugar, resistant starch gets its name because it resists digestion until it reaches the large intestine. There, through fermentation, it takes on many of the roles of other undigested carbohydrates long recognized as dietary fiber -- while providing some unique additional benefits, " according to an October 16 press release.

Constipation, colorectal cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease are emerging as serious issues in developing countries as their levels of prosperity rise, as well as in affluent westernized countries, according to Topping, adding that fiber is the key to lowering the risk of these diseases. "It is no secret that we need much more fiber in our diet but it is the type of fiber that can make real improvements in our health."

Here are some highlights from the conference, according to the press release:

Dr. Janine Higgins, Assistant Professor, Center for Human Nutrition, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, reviewed research showing how resistant starch lowers the post-prandial glucose and insulin impact of foods, improves insulin sensitivity and may increase satiety -- all important factors in reducing weight gain and risk for diabetes. She presented research indicating that consuming resistant starch makes the body prioritize fat metabolism over carbohydrate metabolism. This "fat burning" effect of resistant starch could result in lower body fat in humans, which has been seen in animal studies, if consumed over the long-run. Dr. Higgins also shared new research demonstrating that resistant starch prevented weight re-gain after weight loss almost as much as exercise in animals.

Dr. Michael Keenan, Associate Professor, Division of Human Nutrition and Food, Louisiana State University AgCenter, demonstrated how natural RS is fermented by the bacteria in the large intestine where they produce short-chain fatty acids. Dr. Keenan's research shows that these fatty acids turn on the production of two gut hormones, Peptide YY ("PYY") and Glucagon-like peptide-1 ("GLP-1") that play an important role in signaling our bodies to start or stop eating. Surprisingly, cellulose, another dietary fiber that provides bulking but is not fermented, did not have the same effect. According to Dr. Keenan, gastric bypass surgery also results in increased levels of these two hormones. Dr. Keenan shared new research demonstrating that high levels of dietary fat interfere with the fermentation of natural RS and prevents the increase in GLP-1 and PYY that is seen with low and moderate fat diets. This indicates that the fermentation process may be even more important than caloric intake.

Dr. Topping also explained how dietary consumption of resistant starch may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and other colonic diseases. African Americans have high rates of large bowel disease, but native populations, such as in South Africa, that consume traditional diets high in unrefined grains have very low rates of these diseases. It had been believed that the traditional diets were high in fiber, but they are actually not -- they are high in resistant starch. The fermentation of this naturally occurring resistant starch may be responsible for the reduced rate of disease.

Should I eat more natural resistant starch?

No, we don't need to start gorging ourselves on beans, pasta, rice and bananas. Instead, we need to set "doable goals," about eating more resistant starch, according to Hope Warshaw, an author and diabetes expert. She said that it's important to make small behavior changes that could lead to big impacts on health.

Warshaw and Oldways, a small food-related think tank that sponsored the recent conference, are calling for Americans to start by simply doubling their resistant starch intake.

"Americans consume just less than 5 grams of resistant starch daily, on average, while scientists suggest 15-20 grams or more may be optimum for health. In countries where rice and pasta are diet staples, resistant starch intake is more than double our national average, and in China it is almost 3 times greater, said K. Dun Gifford, president, Oldways in the October 16 press release. "Consumers can double their current resistant starch intake easily by enjoying beans or bananas, or cold potatoes, rice and pasta which all contain naturally-occurring resistant starch."

Now, I know from personal experience that some of these resistant startches, like beans and pasta, really bother me. And for those who have Celiac Disease, eating pasta that isn't gluten free is a no-no. So even though the latest news about the possibility of the health benefits of resistant starches are too important to ignore, not all foods will work for everyone. That's why it's important to understand your body and how it reacts to the foods you eat. It's helpful to keep a food journal so you can see how you feel after you eat certain foods.

And if you're experiencing ongoing bouts of constipation, bloating, gas, abdominal pain and/or diarrhea--you should see your doctor. It may be helpful to ask your doctor, nutritionist or other health provider if you should or how you can work these resistant statches into your diet, especially if you have diabetes or another health condition, or are trying to control your weight.

FYI
Here is a good Q & A on Resistant Starch that I found on About.com

All the best,

Gastro Girl

Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready: Rock Star Life and Crohn's Don't Mix

2007-10-10T13:18:00.000-04:00

Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready, who has battled Crohn's disease for 20 years, says the rock star life and Crohn's don't mix.

Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is a condition in which the lining of your digestive tract becomes inflamed, causing severe diarrhea and abdominal pain. The inflammation often spreads deep into the layers of affected tissue. Like ulcerative colitis, another common IBD, Crohn's disease can be both painful and debilitating and sometimes may lead to life-threatening complications.

In a live and very candid online interview on October 9,2007 McCready told Healthtalk listeners how he's managed his Crohn's disease--a journey that wasn't always easy. This journey was one that forced the talented musician to take a hard look at his lifestyle and how it affected his body, which at times failed him at the most in opportune times--including when he was traveling on a tour bus, onstage in front of thousands of fans and even driving around Seattle in his car.

What I found particularly interesting, was McCready's openness. He admitted to self medicating with marijuana, valium vicodin to quell the pain and escape from the reality of Crohn's.

"I was self-medicating because of the burden of dealing with Crohn's," McCready said. "I wanted to do drugs to feel better about having Crohn's." Ironically, his behavior made his symptoms worse, as did smoking, which he says is the "worst thing for someone with Crohn's."

"I could tell my Crohn's was 10 times worse when I smoked--I could feel it in my intestines as soon a I took a hit."

But he eventually realized his self-destructive ways were not only making his Crohn's disease worse, it was hurting his family and friends, who finally intervened.

Breaking his bad habits

McCready quit smoking cold turkey and entered a rehab and medical detox program. In his interview, McCready couldn't stress enough how crucial it is for young Crohn's patients to listen to their doctors and not try to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol, like he did. As a self-proclaimed advocate for Crohn's disease (he has even inspired his fans to raise money for Crohn's reaserch, summer camps and awareness) and as a spokesperson for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, McCready says he is most excited about helping others live better with the disease, especially young people.

He mentioned a book, Breaking the Vicious Cycle, which he credits as a jump-start to his remission. Although, it is a very strict diet, eliminating all starches and refined sugars, McCready said it was a great way to undertsand how diet plays a significant role in managing Crohn's disease.

Now, McCready says his diet is mostly a lot of fish and rice, not a lot of sauces starches or refined sugars. After trying a vareity of meds over the years, including Remicade and Prednisone, McCready is now managing his disease with weekly self-injections of Humira. He also takes probiotics which he says help him have firmer bowel movements.

McCready says he's been in remission for two years, the longest period of time he gone without any flare-ups. But he's still concerned and appalled at the way insurance companies treat Crohn's patients, requiring them to first pay for meds out of pocket to see if they work--before the insurance company will pay.

"I've had to go through this prior-authorization twice--and I have a big problem with this. It should be about helping people who are sick and it's all about the bottom line. If this happens to me and I can afford it, I can only imagine what poor people and kids have to go through."

As for his best and worst moments living with Crohn's, McCready says his best is getting to talk about the disease, meeting people, especially kids, who are living with Crohn's.

The worst?

McCready says he's had lots of those, and yes, he's been onstage, in extreme pain with no other choice but to soil his pants right there in front of his band (who he says know all about his condition and are extremely supportive) and thousands of fans.

But opening for his favorite band of all time, the Rolling Stones, takes the cake.

"We were opening up for Rolling Stones in Oakland and a minute before we had to go on I had a Crohn's attack...I'm about to lose it and I told Eddie [Veder] to open with "Sometimes" since I'm not really in it. I ditch and go find a bathroom. So there I am in the a porta-potty listening to us [Pearl Jam] open for the Rolling Stones.

Want more?

Listen to Mike McCready's full interview at Heathtalk

What you need to know:

Signs & Symptoms of Crohn's disease

IBS and IBD: Q & A

Crohn's Diagnosis Not Always Easy: Read Jill's Story

Get Support

Join Patient Advocate Jill Sklar's Crohn's and Colitis Support Group

Read Living With Crohn's

Gastro Girl's 10-day Yoplait Yo-Plus Challenge

2007-10-04T09:25:00.000-04:00

Probiotics are becoming the hippest food enhancer since fiber. And for me this isn't a bad thing--if it helps keep my digestive system on track. So I was flattered when the thoughtful folks at Yoplait asked me if I'd like to try their new yogurt, Yo-Plus. The company must have read my mind (or my digestive system) as I've been struggling to keep things moving and grooving for some time. Like a lot of you, I'm trying to manage IBS symptoms including gas and bloating and the inability to stay regular, which have caused me great discomfort over the years.

So you can imagine my excitement when the Yoplait representative generously sent me a ten-day supply of Yo-Plus after I volunteered to take this 10-day challenge.

I'll admit I was a bit skeptical, as I really wondered if a yogurt, specifically formulated to help my digestive system could really do the job.

But when I saw the cups of strawberry and vanilla yogurt (two of my favorite yogurt flavors of all time), I put my objective journalism cap on and began the challenge two weeks ago.

So does it taste good?

Let me just say that I've always been a fan of Yoplait yogurt, as I find this brand to be among the creamiest, even the low-fat versions. Yes, I had expectations for the company's latest yogurt. And boy was my mouth rockin' after one spoonful of Yo-Plus. Yea, baby--the creamy, texture of Yo-Plus did not disappoint this Yoplait groupie. I dived into the strawberry version first and it was delicious--full of fabulous fruity fun.

You would never know this yogurt was packed with probiotics, prebiotics, including three grams of fiber. A yogurt full of fiber? This is a Gastro Girl's digestive dream come true.

And after I tasted the heavenly vanilla version the following day, I knew my 10-day Yo-Plus challenge would be delicious. And if it really helped make my gut happy, well that would be a bonus. By the way, Yo-Plus also comes in cherry and peach.

What's in Yo-Plus that makes it's so special?

The unique Yo-plus blend of probiotics and prebiotics, including three grams of fiber is called Optibalance.

Now probiotics are the good, friendly bacteria that your body needs to stay healthy and prebiotics are the fiber that helps sustain the growth of the friendly bacteria in your digestive tract. We need these two to keep the bad bugs out of our system.

Have more questions? Check out the FAQs on the Yo-Plus site.

Bottom line: Did Yo-Plus help my digestive system?

I will admit that for 10 days, I looked forward to starting my day with the 4 oz. cup of Yo-Plus. Some days, I even had another Yo-Plus in the afternoon. I did notice a difference about day three--I felt a little less bloated, and my gut felt calmer. Now, I didn't conduct a controlled trial or make any significant diet changes. So of course my assessment of whether or not Yo-Plus actually helped my digestive system is totally subjective. Placebo effect? Who knows.

But it's been past the 10-day challenge now, and I'm still getting my daily Yo-Plus on. I liked Yo-Plus so much I went out and bought more--including the Peach flavor, which was every bit as good as the other flavors I'd tried.

For me the serving size was perfect. Additonally, each serving has only 110 calories, and 1.5 grams of fat. Another big plus for me, was that Yo-Plus contains no artificial sweetners--which for some people aggravate their digestive system. Yes, Yo-Plus contains sugar--but with proper exercise and a balanced diet I'm not worried about the sugar!

I agree with Yoplait, that Yo-Plus can help my body to regulate its digestive health naturally. But, as Yoplait states on it's website, "Yo-Plus is not a treatment or cure for any medical disorder or disease. If you're experiencing any difficulty or discomfort with your digestive system, you should contact a healthcare professional immediately."

Yo-Plus gets Gastro Girl's Good for Your Gut approval!

Note: Gastro Girl and Revolution Health were not paid to endorse this product. All opinions expressed here are based on Gastro Girl's independent taste-test and do not represent Revolution Health.

The Top Ten Gassiest Dogs: Why Are They So Stinky?

2007-07-20T15:35:00.000-04:00

The pet lover in me couldn't skip over a recent AkPharma, Inc. survey that named the "Top Ten Gassiest Dogs." Of course I immediately scanned the list to see if my beloved Bearded Collies made the list. And yes, I breathed relief when I didn't see that breed on the list. I didn't think Bearded Collies would be among the "gassiest" because my Beardie boys, Jester and Oscar, who eat a raw food diet (no grains), don't seem to have a problem with gas, thank goodness. Now they may fall into another category, "The top ten nuttiest dogs," but that's not really related to the digestive system. (If I do find a link, I will let you know!)

So who made the list?

Top ten gassiest dogs

1. German Shepherd
2. Mutt

3.Labrador Retriever

4. Boxer
5. Doberman Pinscher
6.Poodle
7.Cocker Spaniel
8.Rottweiler
9.Beagle
10. Dalmation

About the survey

The recent survey of dog-lovers was conducted on AkPharma's toll-free CurTail Hotline.

"This list of gassiest dogs humorously reveals which breeds are the most renowned for their ability to emit unpleasant pet gas," says Alan Kligerman, C.E.O. at AkPharma Inc.

Now is this not the best CEO quote you've seen in a while? I sure got a laugh out of it.

It's important to note that AkPharma, the creator of Beano and Lactaid (these brands now belong to other companies)and Prerelief (for heartburn), also makes CurTail Drops, a pet food enzyme that is supposed to help make your pet's food easier to digest.

"Pet gas is definitely a problem that most pet owners encounter and frequently it's the result of a pet's inability to properly digest the ingredients in pet food," Kligerman says. "CurTail Drops will prevent pet gas associated with most types of food, from generic store brands to gourmet special diet formulas."

Now, from my own experience with my Beardies and after much research reading and talking with veterinarians and pet nutrition experts, I've learned that our what our pets eat affects their digestive system in much the same way as food affects ours. So just as certain foods may cause us digestive woes like gas, bloating, constipation or diarrhea--certain things our pet eat may cause them to suffer with similar symptoms. Other pets are quite obsese. Think about all the times you've had to pick up after a dog whose stools are consistently loose? Many of us accept this as normal--but just as it isn't "normal" for us to have consistently loose stools, neither should our pets.

So while the "top ten gassiest pets" list is funny, the larger and more serious issue for me is what are we feeding our pets to make them so stinky?

While the reality is not everyone thinks about the ingredients in their pet's food that may be causing the gas and therfore a product like Curtail could help, I want pet owners to know that just as we are what we eat, so are our pets.

In the FAQs on the Curtail site, we learn that the very reason for this product is because of what is lurking in pet food.

I've included this from the Curtail site for your info:

"Why does my pet need CurTail Drops?
Many pet foods contain soy or whole grains. Unfortunately, these ingredients contain complex sugars that your pet can't always digest. After a meal, these sugars ferment in your pet's intestine - producing unpleasant gas. And you know what usually happens next! CurTail contains a natural - source food enzyme that aids in the digestion of the complex sugars found in pet foods. This enzyme acts on the sugars before they become a problem."
My question: if ingredients like soy, corn, wheat glutens and other grains and fillers are included in pet foods and they are not always easily digestable, why do we continue feeding our pets this food?

While I will say that removing grains from my dogs' diet has had major health benefits for both of them, a raw food diet may not be the right diet for every pet. There are some high-quality pet foods such as the food made by Innova that are dry, and some of them do not contain any grain such as EVO. Yes, a raw diet costs more than other types of pet food, but I save on veterinary bills. Jester and Oscar visit the vet pretty much once a year.

Until I swtiched his diet, Jester had major digestive issues and I was in the vet's every other week for the first two years of his life So I urge you to learn all you can about pet foods and understand what you are really feeding your pet. All dogs are not created equally--and neither is the food they eat. And cats too--they need high-protien diets--not diets filled with carbs and sugar. It's not natural for their digestive systems--so it's no wonder they have trouble digesting at times (if you have cats, you've likely seen kitty vomit in weird places in the house.) Ever wonder why? What about all the uriniary tract issues some cats have? It's likely what they're eating.

Anyway, I hope you found this insightful and are thinking about what you will feed you pet.

Here are some resources I've found helpful:

What's really in pet food

Guidelines for healthier pets

Pet food labels: a misnomer?

Reducing canine obesity

Evolutionary nutrition

All the best for you and your pets!

Gastro Girl

Lentils Rule: Show the Little Legume Some Love

2007-07-18T14:59:00.000-04:00

If you know me, you know I'm a loyal lentil fan. Despite constant barbs over the years from co-workers, friends and even family members, who think my insatiable desire for lentil soup is a bit weird, I've never given up my love for the little legume. And yes, I make a great lentil soup! E-mail me and I'll send you Gastro Girl's "secret" lentil soup recipe.

The latest jab came a few weeks ago when our group here was deciding the theme of our monthly "iron-chef pot-luck lunch." Sometimes it’s based on a single ingredient--so of course I suggested lentils. You would have thought I doing stand-up or something the way my co-workers simultaneously busted out laughing and groaning. Needless to say nobody wanted to tackle a disk with lentils. Although I did have my revenge when the pot-luck subject was "salads." I seized the moment to dazzle them with a french lentil and feta salad I whipped it to impress the naysayers. Yes, it was gobbled up to rave reviews and I took home an empty dish!

Still I've felt alone in my lentil loyalty; a member of underground club privy to its nutritional and overall health benefits.

Until today.

Co-worker G passed around a link to a Science Daily diddy giving major props to the lovely luscious lentil. Among the health benefits: you have a greater chance of losing weight if you eat a diet that is high in foods like lentils.

See, these foods release energy slowly once you've eaten them, which means they have a low glycemic index. Lentils, by the way, pack a protein punch and are a great substitute for meat.

Lentils are also very high in fiber, which is great for your digestive health. However, some fiber-filled foods may not be so gastro-friendly for people living with a digestive condition like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Celiac disease (where wheat, barley and rye are a problem.)

“When foods are eaten the body breaks them down into their components, and one component will be sugar. Different foods break down at different rates. Lentils, for instance, generate a long, gentle release of sugars, while foods like white bread send a sudden rush of sugar into the blood stream. Foods that release sugars rapidly are said to have a high glycemic index -- those that release it slowly have a low glycemic index," according to the Science Daily article.

A team of Cochrane Researchers found that people eating low glycemic index diets lost a mean of one kilogram more than those on similar energy high glycemic index diets.

"Low glycemic index diets appear to be particularly effective for people who are obese," says lead author Dr Diana Thomas, the Scientific Director of the Center for Evidence Based Pediatrics Gastroenterology and Nutrition, in Westmead, Australia. "It may be easier to adhere to a low glycemic index diet than a conventional weight loss diet, since there is less need to restrict the intake of food so long as the carbohydrates consumed have a low glycemic index," says Thomas. Source: Science Daily.

Need inspiration?

Try out these lentil recipes:

Simple lentils

Mediterranean lentil salad

Spinach and lentils

Lentil rice salad

Peggy's curried lentil soup

Grandma's red lentil soup

Alton Brown's lentil salad

Lukewarm pasta salad with lentils

Scottish spicy lentil soup

Half-assed lentil soup

Lentil soup with lemon and spinach

Living With Crohn's? Tune in for Insurance Tips

2007-07-12T14:46:00.000-04:00

As you probably know, Michael Moore's new film Sicko has heated up the health care debate. I'm not surprised since 47 million people are uninsured in the United States; and many of them go without health insurance coverage or find insurance companies unwilling to pay for tests or medications because of preexisting conditions, such as Crohn's disease.

Did you know that about 500,000 Americans have Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract?
(Note: This photo is an endoscopic image of Crohn's showing deep ulceration in sigmoid colon. Photo released into public domain on permission of patient. Source:Wikipedia.)

Like ulcerative colitis, another common IBD, Crohn's disease can be both painful and debilitating and sometimes may lead to life-threatening complications.

It' s no secret that many people living with a digestive condition such as Crohn's disease are flustered, overwhelmed or just plain angered by insurance companies who refuse to cover pre-approved tests or consider useful medicines unnecessary.

Yes, this is ridiculous. I can only imagine how frustrating it is to navigate the world of health care insurance if you or a loved one is living with Crohn's disease.

But a Health Talk program, "Crohn's: It's My Money," aims to help you deal with your frustrations. The show will air on the Internet on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. EST (4:00 p.m. PST).
I urge those of you living with Crohn's (or caring for someone that is) to tune into the show for a chance to tell your story and hear helpful advice about what you can do to get the coverage you deserve. You'll learn how to check for incorrect claim statements, find an advocate on the inside to help you and make your voice heard.

You need to register in advance to participate. But when you register you'll also have the opportunity to submit a question to the Health Talk experts, who will also answer questions from guests live during the program.

Feel free to ask your questions in our Revolution Health community forums as well! We have some helpful resources for you, including patient advocate Jill Sklar, who offers insight, support and advice in the Crohn's and digestive health community as well as in her blog, Living with Crohn's.

Listen to a previous Health Talk program on Crohn's and Initmacy

All the best,
Gastro Girl

Pool Drain Danger Beware: Little Girl Loses Intestines

2007-07-06T15:17:00.000-04:00

I just read a heartbreaking and quite disturbing story about a six-year old Minnesota girl who had most of her intestines sucked out of her body by a pool drain. She is lucky to be alive although her life will never be the same.

Abigail Taylor sat on the drain at the bottom of the pool and her bottom created suction on the drain. The strength of the suction from the drain pulled most of her small intestine out, according to wire reports.

A several hours in surgery, Abigail now has a permanent colostomy and now faces a lifetime of intravenous feedings since that's the only way she will be able to receive all of her nutrients.

Without her small intestines she cannot process food.

Her father, Scott Taylor said in wire reports that he's talking to the media to make sure other parents and pool owners are aware of the dangers lurking at the bottom of pools.

"The suction from a pool drain can be so powerful that it can hold an adult under water, but most entrapment incidents involve children," according to the Consumer Products Safety Commission.

So parents, pool owners and anyone else who swims or is around pools--please take care, warn your children of pool dangers and please, please don't sit on the pool drain.

Here are some Revolution Health resources for pool safety:

Pool safety tips
Swimming FAQs
Water safety
Child safety: Prevent drowning

Digestive Hazard? The Science of Speed Eating

2007-07-05T10:08:00.000-04:00

I've often wondered how those competitive food-inhalers do it--consuming vast amounts of donuts, hot dogs, watermelon and everything in between. My wonder resurfaces every year on July Fourth as Nathans's Famous hot dog eating contest gets major media coverage, including an ESPN chomp-by-chomp. It was no different yesterday when Joey Chestnut won the dubious honor of being the world's fastest eater ever, setting a new record when he gobbled 66 hot dogs (and buns) in 12 minutes at the Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest in New York.

Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest 2007 Part 1

That's a rate of one dog every 10.9 seconds--such god-speed velocity that makes my stomach churn and burn just thinking about it.

Chestnut out-ate Takeru Kobayashi, the Japanese competitive eating champion who has won the contest for the past six years. He placed second, downing a mere 63 dogs during a mad-digestive race to the finish. Kobayashi also holds world records for guzzling cow brains and rice balls. But this time he succumbed to mouth-woes, reporting jaw arthritis and wisdom tooth pain.

Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest 2007 Part 2

Inquiring Minds Want to Know: The Inside Digestive System Scoop
No one ever reports whether the victor purges after gulping and gorging his (or her) way to the finish. In my search for answers I came across an organization I thought would help--the International Federation of Competitive Eating (IFCE). I never EVEN knew there was an International Federation of Competitive Eating! But aside from how to join, latest news and a short paragraph about safety, I can't find any additional info. Darn.

The media also never share if these competitors digestive-systems are shocked into submission or merely pushed into an enzyme-laden frenzy, breaking down the mass quantity of food slower or faster than normal? How do these speed-eaters hold such huge amounts of food? Are they glued to their toilet seats for days after the event or are they so constipated and miserable? What do they do to train for this? How can they even look at food again after such an event? More importantly, what happens to their digestive systems--and their bodies in general--when they are involved in such "unnatural" binging?

We know how the digestive system works typically, but what happens if we're speed-eating competitors?

Well, I think National Geographic just may have the answers in its new documentary, The Science of Speed-Eating, which premieres Sunday, July 8 at 9:00 p.m. It airs again on Sunday July 15 at 11 a.m.

You can watch a preview here.

National Geographic says the film "bites into the gut-wrenching world of competitive eating as doctors examine a competitive eaters stomach. Follow along with three of the worlds top competitors as they devour their way through the professional speed eating circuit."

Check out NGC producer Dan Cesareo's blog for insight on the making of this documentary. From what I can tell, it wasn't always pretty.

You can bet I'll be watching and hoping my questions are answered! Stay tuned!

Visit Gastro Girl at Revolution Health

Living With IBS? Tap This Support Group to Live Better!

2007-06-25T13:21:00.000-04:00

In my quest to understand Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common digestive condition, I came across The IBS Self Help and Support Group , the largest online self-help health site for those living with IBS.

I spent many hours on the IBS site ever since I began my role at Revolution Health nearly a year ago in an effort to learn more about IBS--and even more importantly--to understand how IBS impacts the lives of those who are coping with it every day.

What I found here was a community of support, of kindness, education, learning, empathy, compassion and insight, at times sprinkled with humor; a place where frustrations and sadness are shared along with the good days when the pain isn't so bad and life is enjoyable. I found tips, advice and insight on everything you could imagine having to do with living with IBS including medications, treatment options, alternative therapies, exercise and diet.

If you don't have IBS you may not realize just how vital an online support group is to those who are coping with IBS. We all know how embarrassing it is to talk about our occasional tummy troubles--most of us keep our gas, bloating and other digestive woes to ourselves. But for the millions who suffer with IBS, suffering in silence can ruin lives.

Here's what one person with IBS said about the IBS Self Help & Support Group:

"It's drastic. The symptoms are sometimes constant. There's diarrhea and abdominal pain or constipation and bloating. I can't commit to anything too far in advance or anything that is regularly occurring. It greatly affects my life and I'm grateful that there is someone to turn to for support and information."

"... this group represents the real voice of the IBS sufferer, in a professional and dignified manner."

Tim and Nicole: Living and Laughing With IBS

My two favorite IBS bloggers, Tim Phelan (Romance, Riches, Restrooms) and Nicole Thomas, (Life in A Bathroom) are active in this IBS online support community and are inspirational and positive role models. You'll love their blogs! They both have such a great sense of humor--see for yourself!

Tim's got a book out too, Romance, Riches and Restrooms. It's fabulously funny and educational.

The IBS Self Help and Support Group formed in 1987 and established itself as a support and advocate group for IBS Sufferers. The group's founder and president, Jeffrey Roberts, is a respected voice of the IBS community and has testified before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) several times on behalf of IBS patients.

What will you find? Access to bulletin and chat boards, blogs, news and articles, videos and podcasts, book list and store, medication listings, testing, diagnosis and treatment, research study listings, penpals and support groups.

IBS Chat: GET Real Life Stories and Solutions

If you want support information in book-form--IBS Chat contains the best and most commonly asked questions (with answers). I've read much of the book and I will say it offers a wealth of practical strategies for managing symptoms, information about treatment options, and insight into the impact IBS can have on someone's life.

Just like you'll find on the IBS group's website, IBS Chat is filled with advice, support, and reassurance. You'll be blown away with how much help and info you'll find within these pages and online at the IBS Self Help & Support Group.

Let me know what you think!

By the way, the IBS Self Help and Support Group is featured this week in Revolution Health's Online Health Fair, along with other leading organizations like the National Foundation For Celiac Awareness, the Society for Women's Health Research and the American Kidney Fund.

Alli-Oops Bag: Not Just for Dieters

2007-06-22T13:08:00.000-04:00

A colleague of mine was gastro-savvy enough to share her discovery of how people are preparing to deal with the digestive side effects they may experience taking Alli, Alli the new diet pill. By packing an Alli-oops bag of course! But I thought this was such a good idea whether or not you take Alli, especially if you are coping with a digestive condition like IBS, Crohn's Disease or Colitis,or even if you have an unpredictable constitution. A little preparation never hurts.

So what's in an Alli-oops bag you ask? Since Alli works mostly in the digestive system by blocking the fat you consume, you'll likely have increased bowel movements, looser stools or diarrhea. And the more fat you eat the uglier your side effects will be. That's why you need to follow the Alli-plan.

Yes, your decision to take Alli basically boils down to how much you can tolerate the digestive system side effects which may include: frequent bathroom trips, oily leakage, abdominal discomfort, gas and bloating.

But now that that the Alli boards are buzzing with folks coming to terms with the fact that some gastro-things will be out of their control and the bathroom will be a become a space for self-reflection among other things--ways to cope with the inevitable are emerging. Among the best and most practical: the Alli-oops bag.

Here's What You Need to Make Yours:

I suggest a chic Gastro-Girly Bag to start (discretion is key)

Contents:

baby wipes

lotion

body spray

extra panties

extra pads

extra pants

plastic bags

I would add some hand sanitizer too!

and of course A SENSE OF HUMOR!

Got more ideas for the Alli-Oops bag? Tell us!

Wondering What to Do About Those Oily Stains?

I came across this in the Alli forums:

First spray some kind of clothes stain remover all over the area (like shout)

-Then take some of your normal laundry detergent and rub into the fabric.

-Let it set for a few mins, making sure the whole oily spots are completely drenched in the laundry detergent. (scrub it into the clothing)

-Wash as normal in COLD water. (Warm/Hot water has a tendency of setting stain)

Hope that saves your clothes.

I wonder if we'll see more car trunks with an Alli-oops bag along side our emergency survival bags that we packed after 9/11?

Alli: Can You Deal With Diarrhea and Make Diet Changes?

Alli: Is This New Diet Drug A Digestive System Foe?

Alli Diet Pill: Can You Deal With Diarrhea and Diet Changes?

2007-06-19T13:54:00.000-04:00

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I'm amazed and yet not surprised that so many of you are asking about the pros and cons of Alli, the much-hyped new over-the-counter diet pill (weight loss drug.) Whether Alli works or not is on your mind of course--but most of your questions involve your curiosity about Alli's side-effects--which may include gas with oily spotting, loose stools, and more frequent stools that may be hard to control (diarrhea).

Since Alli works mostly in the digestive system, I talked with Dr. Brian Fennerty, a leading gastroenterologist based in Portland, Oregon, who is also a one of our medical experts here at Revolution Health. I wanted to get the "real deal" about the toilet-related side-effects, like diarrhea, to clarify when and if Alli users need to worry. I also wanted to find if he thought there was any link between Alli and colon cancer. See, many news reports (including my previous post and a Revolution Health article) have cited a study that concluded Alli caused precancerous lesions in the colon.

Listen to Dr. Fennerty share his thoughts about Alli

I also talked with Dr. Caroline Cederquist, a board certified weight loss specialist in Naples, Florida. She is well-known for her balanced approach to weight loss--which stresses diet, exercise and strict monitoring of her patients. She has prescribed fat blockers such as Xenical to her patients, but only in combination with a personalized diet and exercise plan.

By the way, Alli is a "watered down" version of Xenical ( Alli is about half as strong). However, Dr. Cederquist said some studies have already shown that Alli has been just as effective as the prescription-strength version.

See how some Revolution users are incorporating Alli into their weight loss plan.

Both Dr. Fennerty and Dr. Cederquist agreed that Alli won't work unless you are serious about losing weight and are ready to make significant diet and exercise changes. Alli is no miracle diet pill and both Dr. Fennerty and Dr. Cederquist stressed that Alli won't work without a patent's full commitment to watching their diet and exercising.

Side-effects: Can You Cope?

Dr. Fennerty said that the side-affects will likely be more uncomfortable than a risk to your overall health. But as with any drug, you should read the warning label and not take Alli (and also consult your doctor before you take Alli) if you fall into the categories listed on the warning label. I checked out the label and the biggest warning was aimed those who have had organ transplants because Alli interferes with the medicines used to prevent transplant rejection.

Yes, you'll likely have increased bowel movements, looser stools or diarrhea. So besides your readiness to embrace the whole Alli plan, your decision to take Alli basically boils down to how much you can tolerate the digestive system side effects which may include: frequent bathroom trips, oily leakage, abdominal discomfort, gas and bloating.

"These side effects aren't life threatening," said Dr. Fennerty. Disputing study findings cited by Public Citizen director Sidney Wolfe, Dr. Fennerty said the chances of Alli leading to increased risk of of colon cancer or even precancerous lesions is very slim. "If Alli was in any way associated with colon cancer it would definitely not be on the market."

Alli Not Wise Choice For Those with Chronic Digestive Conditions

If you have a chronic digestive condition, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's or Colitis) or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), where diarrhea is predominant, you shouldn't take Alli, since this drug would likely make your diarrhea much worse, according to Dr. Fennerty. However, he noted that for those with IBS where constipation is the main symptom, Alli could actually help. But IBS patients looking to alleviate their constipation shouldn't take Alli just to treat constipation if they aren't trying to lose weight.

Can you lessen the side-effects? Try this advice

If you're thinking about taking Alli, you need to know what to eat and how much to ensure the best results.

Dr. Cederquist recommends patients who take Alli eat a low-fat diet with 15 grams of fat per meal., which is what the drug company, GlaxoSmithKline, states on its website. "This will help patients lower the chance of experiencing these treatment effects."

This makes sense to me--if you eat lots of fatty foods, your trips to the bathroom may be more frequent and not so pretty. It's also the side-effects that may make some people give up. So it's important to realize this connection.

Since Allie blocks fat absorption—the side effects of eating so much fat might cause some people to give up. Dr. Cederquist said this is one reason why it’s important that Alli be taken as part of a diet and exercise program.

Why? Even restricting your fat consumption won’t work if you’re replacing fatty foods with too much sugar or protein.

“You can gain a lot of weight eating sugar and protein,” Dr. Cederquist said. “It's an issue of calories and you have to understand that Alli doesn’t block all calories. Simply, exercise and calories matter”

Think Alli is a ticket to fried? Think again.

“If your eating a ton of fat and taking Alli, you’ll have a ton of side effects,” said Dr. Cederquist. Sometimes you’ll learn from that and realize it’s better to have that chicken breast than a Big Mac.”

She also warned that many people don’t realize that they are consuming a lot of fat even when they think they’re making healthy choices: nuts, cheese, dressings all have fat.

“You might think you’re eating healthy but that salad could have as much fat a Big Mac if you’re piling on cheese and dressings.”
Note: I will be updating this post soon..please visit again!

Are you ready for Alli? Take this quiz.

If you’ve decided Alli is right for you, buy your starter pack in the Revolution Health store.

Common Questions

Alli: Is This New Diet Drug A Digestive System Foe?

2007-06-14T23:56:00.000-04:00

Alli, the much hyped miracle weight loss drug that is now available over the counter may not be such a "miracle" after all. On the eve of it's retail debt, experts nationwide are debating its long-term efficacy and more importantly its safety. News reports are all over the internet filled with warnings, some even urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to rethink its approval as the first bottles are about to be purchased.

FDA approval of the weight-loss drug Alli for over-the-counter (OTC) sale — the prescription dose version is Xenical (generic name orlistat) — has raised some heavyweight questions, according to a Revolution Health report.

Among the harshest warnings came from Public Citizen's director, Sidney Wolfe who "strongly urged people not to use this drug.”

Wolfe actively petitioned the FDA against approval of Alli. “There’s no evidence of long-term benefits, and [there are] many short-term risks” including gastrointestinal problems, oily spotting and oily gas, and a serious risk of vitamin deficiency. Wolfe also points to several studies that showed the drug can lead to precancerous lesions in the colon."

This is scary news for me, a Gastro Girl concerned with your digestive health. But I'm not surprised by the claims the drug can cause gastrointestinal problems given how it works in the body. See Alli prevents fat from being absorbed in the intestine--so around 30 percent of the fat you won't be absorbed. Now, where will that fat go? Yep. You'll excrete it as waste. So it makes sense that over time your poor intestines will feel the burn as this fat will likely cause excessive diarrhea. So it's no wonder the studies showed the drug could lead to precancerous lesions in the colon.

Now, I'm not an expert, but I do feel an obligation to share the digestive side of things here. I am concerned that this drug--which is designed for the obese (body mass index, or BMI, greater than 30), overweight(BMI greater than 27) or those with additional heart disease risk factors--will be abused by those who want to shrink down to model size and see the drug as an easy way to skinny jeans.

My other concern is some may actually eat more fatty foods thinking that Alli will block most of the fat. No, Alli isn't a ticket to fried, folks!

Seriously, my aim isn't to tell you what to do. I just want to present the facts so you are aware of the risks and the benefits of this new drug. I worry about your gastro health--and I don't want anyone to needlessly endure digestive distress.

Please read all the research, talk to your doctor and make an informed decision before you make Alli your ally. This drug could turn out to be your foe.

Check out this excluisve Revolution Health report, "Is Alli All It Claims to be For Weight Loss?"

I will follow up with some insight from some Gastro docs soon so stay tuned.

Get Gastro Sick If You Pet Without Precaution

2007-06-14T10:48:00.000-04:00

Petting zoos are fun, educational, social and for many of us the closest we'll ever get to being Old Macdonald or Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm.

But in our fur-feeling frenzy, many of us don't realize we're touching more than what we can see or feel. In fact,we're getting personal with germy critters like E. Coli, Salmonella, Cryptosporidium, and Campylobacter. These bacteria live in the intestinal tracts of some animals and which then are shed in the animal's feces.
Horses, goats, sheep, donkeys and other four-legged creatures--sure they're cute, enticing us with all that hair, fur and those eyes. Ah, those eyes. Don't let them fool you! Yes, touching and not washing could wreak havoc on your digestive system.

Common Sense Isn't So Common

If you're a Gastro Girl groupie, you know how I feel about handwashing-- an act so basic and common "sensical" that you would think it comes as second nature to all man and woman-kind. Not so. And when it comes to petting animals at the zoo--we're not washing our hands or taking other basic precautions--and some of are getting sick.

See, a recent study found that between 1991 and 2005 there were at least 55 outbreaks of intestinal diseases with associated with animals in public places, like petting zoos, in the United States.

While it may not seem significant--the fact is that even though the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention has simple guidelines to help prevent the transmission of these diseases--not all of us are heeding this advice.

This study was published in the July 1, 2007, Clinical Infectious Diseases (and currently available online).

"While petting zoos are common and can be an excellent educational and social event, there are potential health risks that are not always being properly addressed," said J. Scott Weese, DVM, DVSc, dipACVIM, lead author of the study. Because the route of disease transmission is usually from animal feces to a human's mouth, guidelines to reduce the risk of disease are designed to interrupt this route. They include recommendations to wash hands after touching animals, to keep food and drinks outside of animal areas, and to prevent children from putting their hands or objects (such as pacifiers or sippy-cups) in their mouths while interacting with the animals." Source:Infectious Disease Society of America

How Gross: Why Aren't Thinking (and washing)!

What I can't believe is that although 94 percent of the petting zoos had places for visitors to wash their hands:only 30 percent of the people who visited the petting zoos washed their hands--major Gastro mistake! And I bet lots of them stopped for a bite to eat on their way home, too, or enjoyed snacks on the ride home. Bad move if we don't want tummy bugs. See our hands are the most likely route of transmission of those petting zoo germs.

Speaking of food and drinks-- items that would come into contact with the mouths of infants and children were carried into the petting zoo at more than half the events.
Things like baby bottles, pacifiers, and baby toys were being used in the petting zoo, putting children who put them in their mouths at a higher risk for getting sick.

What Can We Do?

The study said that simple measures can be undertaken by zoo operators to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

These include:

--placing the hand hygiene stations at the exit of a petting zoo
--posting signs promoting hand hygiene
--making running water available so it's easy for people to wash
--removing animals which are about to or have just given birth because such animals are more likely to shed pathogens
--educating people about the risks associated with petting zoos may reduce the frequency with which food, beverages, or items that may end up in a child's mouth are brought into the zoo.

Here's What You Can Do

--wash hands after touching animals
--keep food and drinks outside of animal areas
--don't bring into the zoo area items that go in children's mouths (such as pacifiers or sippy-cups)

Happy (and clean) petting!

Butts Swipes Toilet Paper Now Faces Jail Time

2007-06-11T14:25:00.000-04:00

How do you like my headline? Ok, I just couldn't resist this news item.

Suzanne Marie Butts (yes, that's here real name) shoved three rolls of toilet paper from an Iowa courthouse in her shirt--and well, got busted.

According to the Associated Press, police are chuckling, but the theft charge could put her in prison.

At least the toilet paper is free there, yes?

Here's more from the AP reports:

"She's facing potentially three years of incarceration for three rolls of toilet paper," Chief Lon Walker said, stifling a laugh as he talked to KCCI-TV about Suzanne Marie Butts. "See, I can't say it with a straight face."

Workers had noticed the rolls disappearing from the Marshall County Courthouse much faster than usual, Walker said.

Butts, 38, was caught last week after an employee saw her taking three rolls of two-ply tissue from a storage closet, Walker said.

Butts insisted it was the first time she'd pilfered toilet paper, but she declined to answer further questions on her attorney's advice.

The fifth-degree theft charge, a misdemeanor, normally carries a sentence of less than a year in jail. But Butts could face more time if convicted under the state's habitual offender law because she has prior theft convictions.

Walker did not know why Butts was at the courthouse, but said that she did not work there.

Apparently, police had plenty to go on:

My favorite news story was from Iowa's Times-Republican

"A woman was discovered taking toilet paper from the courthouse Monday, according to police reports, something she has apparently been adept at doing for a quite a while.

No one could remember exactly when, but toilet paper started disappearing at “unusually high rates,” even for county employees, said a source close to the problem. In other words, something didn’t smell quite right.

It had long ago been suspected that the problem was more than just overactive bowels, but no one could quite prove it. That is, until the culprit was caught red-handed by authorities.

“A courthouse employee saw her walk from a storeroom carrying a bag of toilet paper,” said Marshalltown Police Chief Lon Walker.

The woman allegedly involved in the situation, Suzanne Marie Butts, has been referred to as the toilet paper bandit by some county employees.

Though she apparently has a concern for hygiene, she may find herself in a messy situation."

Toilet paper can get pricey--especially if you use a lot. So I'll give Ms. Butts the Gastro Girl benefit of maybe having a digestive condition she just can't afford.

Colons and Polyps and Preps, Oh My!

2007-05-25T15:04:00.000-04:00

Not a pretty picture. The googled-eyed pink blob is a colon polyp. The tall thin green thing is an enema. And the woman to my left is Anka, a former internal medicine doctor turned medical journalist. She's great, by the way and worked hard to keep up with all the news coming out of Digestive Disease Week 2007. I think she has nearly fifty articles to write! See, I told you there was so much news and information coming out of that conference--I know I have an endless stream of topics to share with you here over the next several weeks, perhaps months!

Anyway, back to the topic of colons and polyps.

Here's what you need to know.

Did you know that colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States? Yikes. But when colorectal cancer is detected early, it has one of the highest cure rates. Now that's good news! But IT HAS TO BE DETECTED EARLY!

That's one reason why we need innovative and improved ways to screen for and detect this disease.

When I was at Digestive Disease Week® 2007 (DDW®), there was new research presented there that highlighted several technological and research advances that are helping to decrease both the number of deaths and the number of new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in the United States.

This is great news! But remember, early detection is the key to prevention! Colorectal cancer in its early stages usually doesn't cause any symptoms. If you don't get screened, you won't know and frankly, by the time you do decide to get screened, it may be too late. Now, I'm not trying to alarm you here.

In fact, I need to have a colonscopy soon too. Ok. I'll put it out here right now and say, yes, my doctor, a lovely woman (to whom I complained to about my chronic abdominal pain and bouts of constipation and it's counterpart) who urged me have a colonscopy as a precaution. That was back in February and I still haven't made the appointment. Shame on me!

Does my failure to make an appointment for a colonscopy make me a hypocrite? Well, maybe a little. But it also makes me human and highlights the hesitation most of us have about dealing with our health matters. Am I afraid? You bet. Not so much about the end-result and what they may find--more so about the procedure. Basically, fear of the unknown. Anticipatory anxiety. Even a Gastro Girl is a bit scared.

I met with some reps from Ez-Prep at DDW--they said their product is one used by docs to prepare their patient's (read cleaning out their colons) before the colonscopy. They mentioned it wasn't as bad as we might think.

For me, my time at DDW, listening, learning, asking questions. etc. about all things digestive, including colorectal cancer--which was a major topic at the conference--made a huge impact on me.

Gastro Girl Colonoscopy Challenge

What am I going to do about my fear? I don't even know what I'm afraid about really--what's the worst that could happen? The doc has to zap a polyp or two?

I'm gonna schedule a colonscopy. I tell you what--watch this space for the Gastro Girl Colonoscopy Challenge. Yea. That's it. We'll make a pact to get screened all over the world around the same time! How cool would that be! You can write in with your appointment time and day and location and we can all feel the huge outpouring of support--there is power in numbers!

Stay tuned.

Get the scoop from the Revolution Health community
Colonscopy: What can I expect?