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The Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Gut Health Impacts Mental Wellbeing

Introduction:
In recent years, scientific research has increasingly highlighted the intricate relationship between the gut and the brain, shedding light on the profound impact that gut health can have on mental wellbeing. This burgeoning field of study, known as the gut-brain axis, explores the complex network of communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system, revealing surprising connections between digestive health, mood disorders, and cognitive function. This article delves into the latest findings in gut-brain research, exploring the mechanisms underlying this connection and its implications for holistic health and wellness.

The Gut Microbiota: Guardians of Gut Health
At the heart of the gut-brain axis lies the gut microbiota, a vast ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tract. These include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, collectively known as the gut microbiome. Emerging research has shown that the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota play a crucial role in maintaining digestive health, regulating immune function, and influencing neurological processes.

Studies have demonstrated that a balanced and diverse gut microbiome is associated with improved mood, cognitive function, and stress resilience, while disruptions to the microbiota composition, known as dysbiosis, have been linked to an array of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

The Gut-Brain Communication Highway
The communication between the gut and the brain occurs through various pathways, including the vagus nerve, neurotransmitters, immune signaling molecules, and microbial metabolites. For example, the vagus nerve serves as a bi-directional communication channel, transmitting signals between the gut and the brainstem, influencing mood, appetite, and stress response.

Moreover, the gut microbiota produce a vast array of neuroactive compounds, such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which play key roles in regulating mood, cognition, and behavior. Imbalances in these neurotransmitters, often associated with gut dysbiosis, have been implicated in the development of psychiatric disorders.

In addition, the gut microbiota produce metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which can cross the blood-brain barrier and modulate neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal function. Dysregulation of these pathways has been implicated in the pathogenesis of mood disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Gut Health and Mental Wellbeing
Diet and lifestyle factors play a significant role in shaping the composition and function of the gut microbiota, thereby influencing the gut-brain axis. A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods promotes microbial diversity and produces beneficial metabolites that support gut health and mental wellbeing.

Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can disrupt the gut microbiota, promote inflammation, and exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Moreover, lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep deprivation, and sedentary behavior have been shown to negatively impact gut health and increase susceptibility to mental health disorders.

Harnessing the Power of Gut Health for Mental Wellness
Given the intimate connection between gut health and mental wellbeing, there is growing interest in leveraging interventions targeting the gut microbiota as novel therapeutic approaches for mental health disorders. This includes probiotics, prebiotics, dietary modifications, and lifestyle interventions aimed at restoring microbial balance and optimizing gut-brain communication.

Additionally, emerging research suggests that mind-body practices such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and tai chi may exert beneficial effects on gut health and mental wellness by reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and modulating the gut microbiota.

Conclusion:
The gut-brain connection represents a fascinating frontier in understanding the intricate interplay between the mind and body. By recognizing the profound influence of gut health on mental wellbeing, we can adopt a more holistic approach to health and wellness that encompasses not only traditional psychiatric interventions but also lifestyle modifications and dietary interventions aimed at nurturing the gut microbiome. Through further research and exploration, we can unlock the potential of the gut-brain axis as a promising avenue for promoting mental resilience and improving quality of life.

Written by: Pharm Omojo Uhiah

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Indigestion

What is indigestion?

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, can be defined as a recurrent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
It occurs when your body is having trouble digesting food in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract, a group of organs that plays a major role in digestion.

What causes Indigestion?

A lot of factors can cause indigestion.

They include:
– Eating certain foods (spicy and fatty foods, foods with lots of acids or fiber etc)
– Eating too late in the day
– Drinking alcohol or too much caffeine
– Taking certain medicines
– Gastrointestinal tract problems or other health issues such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcer, gastroparesis etc., can also cause indigestion.

SYMPTOMS OF INDIGESTION

Indigestion can feel like a stomachache. You can have a range of symptoms including:

– Pain, discomfort, or a burning feeling in your chest or stomach
– Bloating
– Gurgling stomach and/or gas
– Acid reflux
– Nausea and/or vomiting

Other extreme symptoms include: Trouble swallowing, ongoing vomiting, throwing up blood, thick, black, or bloody stool etc.

Seek medical aid immediately If symptoms are severe.

How can I prevent or avoid Indigestion?

To start, one needs to know his/her body and how it reacts to different food and drinks.

– Spicy and acidic foods and carbonated drinks can trigger indigestion.
– Eat smaller meals throughout the day, and don’t eat too late at night.
– Don’t lie down too soon after eating.
– Limit the use of alcohol and if you use tobacco, try to quit.
– Stress and lack of sleep also can worsen symptom.

TREATMENT

Your treatment will depend on what is causing your indigestion. Your doctor can help you decide which treatment is best for you.

However, some over-the-counter medicines may help your symptoms, they include:

– Antacids that work against the acid in your system.
– Proton pump inhibitors which help block the site of acid production in your stomach.
– Histamine blockers which help reduce pain and symptoms (should not be used long-term).

Check with your doctor before starting something new.

 

Written by: Ebere Chienjine

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Diarrhea

DIARRHEA

Diarrhea is one of the most common health complaints. It can range from a mild, temporary condition to a potentially life threatening one.

Diarrhea is characterized by abnormally loose or watery stools. Most causes of diarrhea are due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Digestive system disorders can also cause chronic diarrhea.

If a person frequently passes stools but they are of a normal consistency, this is not diarrhea. Similarly, breastfed babies often pass loose, sticky stools. This is normal.

CAUSES OF DIARRHEA

Many cases of diarrhea are due to an infection in the gastrointestinal tract.

?bacteria

?viruses

?parasitic organisms

Some cases of chronic diarrhea are called “functional” because although all the digestive organs appear normal, they are not functioning as they ideally should. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common cause of functional diarrhea.

SYMPTOMS OF DIARRHEA

Diarrhea refers to watery stools, but it may be accompanied by other symptoms. These include:

?stomach pain

?abdominal cramps

?bloating

?weight loss

?fever

?body aches

?chills

Diarrhea is also a symptom of other conditions, some of which can be serious. Other possible

symptoms are:

?blood or pus in the stool

?persistent vomiting
dehydration

If any of these accompany diarrhea, or if the diarrhea is chronic, it may indicate a more serious illness.

TREATMENT OF DIARRHEA

?Rehydration

Children and older people are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. For all cases of diarrhea, rehydration is vital.

People can replace fluids by simply drinking more of them. In severe cases, however, a person may need intravenous fluids.

Oral rehydration solution or salts (ORS) refers to water that contains salt and glucose. The small intestine absorbs the solution to replace the water and electrolytes lost in the stool.

?Antidiarrheal medication

?Antibiotics

?Diet

?Probiotics

There is mixed evidence for the role of probiotics in diarrhea. They may help prevent traveler’s diarrhea, and in there is evidence to suggest that they might reduce diarrheal illness.

? Others include:

?sipping on clear liquids, such as electrolyte drinks, water, or fruit juice without added sugar

?after each loose stool, replacing lost fluids with at least 1 cup of liquid

?doing most of the drinking between, not during, meals

?consuming high potassium foods and liquids, such as diluted fruit juices, potatoes without the skin, and bananas

THINGS THAT MIGHT MAKE DIARRHEA WORSE

?sugar-free gum, mints, sweet cherries, and prunes

?caffeinated drinks and medications

?fructose in high amounts, from fruit juices, grapes, honey, dates, nuts, soft drinks, and prunes

?anything that contains artificial sweeteners

HOW TO PREVENT DIARRHEA

?drinking clean and safe water only
?having good sanitation systems, such as wastewater and sewage
?having good hygiene practices, such as regularly washing the hands with soap, especially before preparing food and eating and after using the bathroom
?educating oneself on the spread of infection.

 

Written by: Josephine Wuraola

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Indigestion

Indigestion is often a sign of an underlying problem, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, or gallbladder disease, rather than a condition of its own.
Also called dyspepsia, it is defined as a persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
What Are the Symptoms of Indigestion?
The symptoms of indigestion can include:
• Burning in the stomach or upper abdomen.
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating (full)
• Belching and gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• Acidic taste
• Growling stomach
These symptoms may increase in times of stress.
People often have heartburn (a burning sensation deep in the chest) along with indigestion. But heartburn itself is a different symptom that may indicate another problem.
Who Is at Risk for Indigestion?
People of all ages and of both sexes are affected by indigestion. It’s extremely common. An individual’s risk increases with:
• Excess alcohol consumption
• Use of drugs that may irritate the stomach, such as aspirin and other pain relievers
• Conditions where there is an abnormality in the digestive tract, such as an ulcer
• Emotional problems, such as anxiety or depression
• Obesity
• Smoking
What Causes Indigestion?
Indigestion has many causes, including:
Diseases:
• Ulcers
• GERD
• Stomach cancer (rare)
• Gastroparesis (a condition where the stomach doesn’t empty properly; this often occurs in people with diabetes)
• Stomach infections
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
•  Chronic pancreatitis.
• Thyroid disease.
• Pregnancy
Medications:
• Aspirin and other painkillers, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and naproxen (Naprosyn)
• Estrogen and oral contraceptives
•  Steroid medications
• Certain antibiotics
• Thyroid medicines
Lifestyle:
• Eating too much, eating too fast, eating high-fat foods, or eating during stressful situations
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Cigarette smoking
• Stress and fatigue
Indigestion is not caused by excess stomach acid.
Treatment for Indigestion
Because indigestion is a symptom rather than a disease, treatment usually depends upon the underlying condition.
How Can I Prevent Indigestion?
The best way to prevent indigestion is to avoid the foods and situations that seem to cause it. Keeping a food diary is helpful in identifying foods that cause indigestion.
Here are some other suggestions:
• If stress is a trigger for your indigestion, learn new methods for managing stress, such as relaxation
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking can irritate the lining of the stomach.
• Cut back on alcohol consumption, because alcohol can also irritate the stomach lining.
• Avoid wearing tight-fitting garments, because they tend to compress the stomach, which can cause its contents to enter the esophagus.
• Don’t exercise with a full stomach. Rather, exercise before a meal or at least one hour after eating a meal.
• Don’t lie down right after eating.
• Wait at least three hours after your last meal of the day before going to bed.
• Sleep with your head elevated (at least 6 inches) above your feet and use pillows to prop yourself up. This will help allow digestive juices to flow into the intestines rather than to the esophagus.
Finally, Because indigestion can be a sign of a more serious health problem, call your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
• Vomiting or blood in vomit (the vomit may look like coffee grounds).
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Black, tarry stools or visible blood in stools.
• Severe pain in the abdomen.
• Discomfort unrelated to eating.
Symptoms similar to indigestion may be caused by heart attacks. If indigestion is unusual, accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, chest pain, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or arm, seek medical attention immediately.
Written by: Chinonye Machie
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Diarrhea and Its Remedies

We’ve all experienced bouts of diarrhea at some point in our lives. Common symptoms of diarrhea include frequent, watery stools, abdominal cramping, and bloating.

Diarrhea is often your body’s way of dealing with disruptions in your gastrointestinal system. Acute diarrhea lasts less than 2 weeks and can come from many sources, such as:

  • a viral infection
  • a bacterial infection
  • food poisoning
  • recent antibiotic use
  • water contaminated with an infectious agent

SYMPTOMS OF DIARRHEA

?stomach pain
?abdominal cramps
?bloating
?weight loss
?fever
?body aches
?chills
?blood or pus in the stool

TREATMENT OF DIARRHEA
1. Hydration

Hydration is very important when you have diarrhea. Dehydration from diarrhea can be fatal in young children and older adults. Continue breastfeeding or formula feeding infants who are experiencing diarrhea. Over-the-counter oral pediatric hydration solutions, like Pedialyte, are the recommended fluids of choice for children with diarrhea. Small amounts of hydration solutions should be given frequently. These formulas also come in popsicle preparations.

Studies have shown that for adults with mild symptoms of diarrhea, sports drinks and over-the-counter rehydration solutions are equally effective.

Alcohol, milk, soda, and other carbonated or caffeinated drinks should not be used for hydration, as they may make your symptoms worse.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are sources of “good” bacteria that work in your intestinal tract to create a healthy gut environment. They’re essentially live microorganisms that exist in certain foods, including:

  • aged soft cheese
  • cottage cheese
  • dark chocolate
  • green olives
  • kefir
  • kimchi
  • kombucha
  • sauerkraut
  • miso
  • natto
  • pickles
  • sourdough bread
  • yogurt

Probiotics also come in powder or pill form.

The good bacteria that live in your intestinal tract are necessary for the normal functioning of your gastrointestinal system. They play an important role in protecting your intestines against infection. When your system is changed by antibiotics or overwhelmed by unhealthy bacteria or viruses, you can get diarrhea. Probiotics can help with diarrhea by restoring the balance of bacteria in your gut.

Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast probiotic. While it’s not a bacterium, it acts like one. S. boulardii may improve antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It also seems to provide relief for traveler’s diarrhea. Studies suggest it may help your intestines fight off unwanted pathogens and ensure they’re absorbing nutrients properly. Because it is yeast, it should be used with caution in people with inadequate immune systems.

It’s important to receive proper medical care in cases of acute diarrhea. Talk with your health care provider before taking probiotic supplements to treat your diarrhea.

3. Over-the-counter drugs

With your doctor’s supervision, several over-the-counter medications can help with acute diarrhea if your symptoms are not severe. Common over-the-counter medications include:

  • bismuth subsalicylate
  • loperamide (Imodium)

While these drugs can relieve the symptoms of diarrhea, they don’t treat the underlying cause.

If you have chronic diarrhea, you shouldn’t use these drugs without your doctor’s consent. Chronic diarrhea is diarrhea that lasts more than 14 days. It often has different causes.

You should be especially cautious if your child has diarrhea. Dehydration resulting from diarrhea can be dangerous and can occur quickly in young children. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening. Over-the-counter medications are not recommended for treatment in children, so it’s important to talk to your doctor. Infants under 3 months old who have diarrhea should be taken to the doctor right away.

If you have bloody diarrhea, a fever, more than seven days of symptoms, intense abdominal pain, or diarrhea that is getting worse, you should seek medical attention.

4. Foods to eat

While it might sound counter intuitive to eat if you have diarrhea, eating certain foods can help alleviate your diarrhea symptoms and ensure your health doesn’t worsen from not eating. Stick to low-fiber “BRAT” foods that will help firm up your stool. These include:

  • bananas
  • rice (white)
  • applesauce
  • toast

Other foods that are usually well-tolerated when experiencing diarrhea include:

  • oatmeal
  • boiled or baked potatoes (with skins peeled)
  • baked chicken with skin removed
  • chicken soup (which also aids in rehydration)
5. Foods to avoid

Fried and greasy foods are usually not well-tolerated in people who have diarrhea. You should also consider limiting high-fiber foods like bran as well as fruits and vegetables that can increase bloating. Foods to avoid include:

  • alcohol
  • artificial sweeteners (found in chewing gum, diet soft drinks and sugar substitutes)
  • beans
  • berries
  • broccoli
  • cabbage
  • cauliflower
  • chickpeas
  • coffee
  • corn
  • ice cream
  • green leafy vegetables
  • milk
  • peas
  • peppers
  • prunes
  • tea
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Diarrhoea and Foods to Avoid When Purging

Diarrhoea is one of the most common health complaint (infection) amongst people of every social class.
It is an abnormal or unusual discharge of loose or watery stool by infection in the gastro-intestinal tract line as a result of contamination of food or drink taken; or other health challenges.

There are three main forms that diarrhoea presents and it includes:
Watery, fatty form as a result of malabsorption and inflammatory form (blood and pus) in stool.

CAUSES OF DIARRHOEA:
Diarrhea is caused due to the following reasons;
– Infestation of food or drinks by bacteria and viral parasites.
– Malabsorption (intolerance and/or allergy to what one consumes)
– Laxative abuse
– IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome)
– IBD (Inflammatory bowel disease) like colon, gall bladder cancer etc as well as autoimmune medicated inflammatory disease that can affect any part of the gastro intestinal tract that is from mouth to anus.
– Reaction to certain medications example (Radiotherapy/ chemotherapy).

SYMPTOMS OF DIARRHEA:
– Frequent urge for bowel movement
– Abdominal pain and cramp
– Tiredness and fatigue

FOODS TO AVOID WHEN PURGING:
It is very important to avoid these foods when purging;
– Dietary products like milk as well as fatty and greasy food.
– Carbonated drinks like soda, seltzer.
– Legumes and vegetables
– Beans
– Spicy dishes as well as some fruits like cherries, pineapple and grapes.

While it is also good that we take food rich in fiber like Whole wheat bread, flaxseed, Natural coconut water, cooked cereals like wheats and oats etc.
Summarily, it is important we note that diarrhea can be mild, temporal or life threatening as the case were; and as such, it is always important to seek medical care when we observe any changes in our system.

 

Written by: Amanda Onyemmah

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Ways to Reduce Bloating

Most people experience bloating at some point. Exercises, supplements, and massages can all help to reduce bloating quickly, and simple lifestyle changes can prevent it from reoccurring.

Abdominal bloating is when the abdomen feels full and tight. It commonly occurs due to a buildup of gas somewhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Bloating causes the belly to look larger than usual, and it may also feel tender or painful. Fluid retention in the body can also lead to bloating.

Bloating usually happens when excess gas builds up in the stomach or intestines. When bloating occurs right after a meal, it usually resolves itself, but it is often possible to speed up this process.

The best way to tackle bloating is to determine its cause. Common triggers for bloating include:

  • Digestive issues. Constipation, food allergies, and intolerances can lead to bloating. When stool becomes backed up in the large bowel, it can cause bloating and a feeling of discomfort. Excess gas may also build up behind the stool, making the bloating worse.
  • Diet. Fizzy drinks, too much salt or sugar, and not enough fiber in the diet can all cause bloating.
  • Hormonal changes. Many people experience bloating before and during their periods due to hormonal changes and water retention.

Many home remedies can help to manage the pain and discomfort of bloating. The following quick tips may help people to get rid of a bloated belly quickly:

1. Go for a walk

Physical activity can get the bowels moving more regularly, which can help to release excess gas and stool. Getting the bowels to move is especially important if a person is feeling constipated. A walk around the block can provide fast relief from gas pressure.

2. Try yoga poses

Certain yoga poses can position the muscles in the abdomen in a way that encourages the release of excess gas from the GI tract. This can reduce bloating.

Child’s Pose, Happy Baby Pose, and squats can all help people to relieve a buildup of gas quickly.

3. Use peppermint capsules

Peppermint oil capsules may also be helpful for indigestion and related gas. Manufacturers usually market them as a treatment for the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but people without IBS can also use them to relieve bloating.

Peppermint works by relaxing the intestinal muscles, which allows gas and stool to move along more effectively. People should always follow the instructions on the packet. Anyone who is prone to heartburn may need to avoid peppermint.

4. Try gas relief capsules

Simethicone pills and liquid are anti-gas medications that can help to move excess air out of the digestive tract. It is essential to always take medication according to the instructions on the label.

5. Try abdominal massage

Massaging the abdomen can help to get the bowels moving. A massage that follows the path of the large intestine is especially helpful. People can follow the steps below to do this:

  • Placing the hands just above the right hip bone.
  • Rubbing in a circular motion with light pressure up toward the right side of the ribcage.
  • Rubbing straight across the upper belly area toward the left rib cage.
  • Moving slowly down toward the left hip bone.
  • Repeating as necessary.

If the massage causes any pain, it is best to discontinue it immediately.

6. Use essential oils

A study from 2016 tested the effectiveness of supplements containing a combination of fennel and curcumin essential oil in 116 people with mild-to-moderate IBS. After 30 days, people reported an improvement in their IBS symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain.

People should not consume essential oils without speaking to a doctor first. This is because some formulations may be toxic or can interfere with medication, and there is no regulation of dosages.

7. Take a warm bath, soaking, and relaxing

The heat of the bath can provide relief for a sore abdomen. Relaxation can reduce stress levels, which may allow the GI tract to function more effectively and help reduce bloating.

Long-term solutions for bloating

Quick fixes are not always effective for some causes of bloating. However, people who have frequent bloating may find that certain lifestyle changes can tackle the causes and reduce bloating over time.

People can use these simple steps to try to prevent bloating in the long-term:

8. Increase fiber gradually

Eating more fiber helps to prevent constipation and bloating.

However, it is important to bear in mind that eating too much fiber or increasing fiber intake too quickly can cause even more gas and bloating. People may notice adverse effects from eating more than 70 g of fiber a day.

When increasing fiber intake, it is best to start slowly and increase the intake over several weeks to allow the body to adjust to this change in the diet.

9. Replace sodas with water

Fizzy, carbonated drinks contain gas that can build up in the stomach. The carbon dioxide that makes soda and similar beverages fizzy can also cause bubbling and bloating in the stomach.

Sugars or artificial sweeteners in the diet can also cause gas and bloating. Drinking water eliminates these issues and helps to treat constipation as well.

10. Avoid chewing gum

The sugar alcohols in gum can cause bloating in some people. Swallowing air while chewing also may lead to bloating and gas pain. People can use ginger mints or peppermints to freshen their breath instead.

11. Get more active every day

Exercise helps your body move stool and gas out of the colon and may make bowel movements more regular. Exercise also releases extra sodium from the body through sweating, which can help to relieve water retention.

It is vital to drink plenty of water before and after exercising to stay hydrated, as dehydrationcan make constipation worse.

12. Eat at regular intervals

Many people experience bloating directly after a big meal. It is possible to avoid this by eating several smaller meals each day, which can help to keep the digestive system moving.

Swallowing food quickly can introduce air into the digestive tract. Drinking from a straw can also lead to people swallowing more air, which in turn leads to gas and bloating. People who have bloating should avoid using straws if possible and try eating slowly to avoid swallowing air during meals.

13. Try probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria that live in the intestines. Taking a probiotic supplement may help to regulate the colon bacteria that can produce gas and cause bloating.

14. Cut down on salt

An excess of sodium causes the body to retain water. This can cause a swollen and bloated feeling in the belly and other areas of the body, such as the hands and feet.

15. Rule out medical conditions

In some cases, bloating may result from a medical condition. To get rid of this bloating, a person may need help from a doctor to diagnose and manage their condition.

Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, may cause people to experience bloating. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can also cause this symptom.

Gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis and ovarian cysts, can also cause pain, swelling, and feelings of bloating in the abdominal area.

People with these symptoms should discuss them with a doctor, who will also want to know about any relevant family medical history and other medical conditions. The doctor may order diagnostic tests to look for any problems. These may include an X-ray, ultrasound, colonoscopy, or blood tests.

16. Keep a food diary

Food intolerances are responsible for many cases of bloating. They can lead to excessive gas in the digestive tract.

Bloating is common in people who have lactose intolerance and are unable to digest the lactose sugar in dairy products. Autoimmune intolerance to gluten, known as celiac disease, is another potential culprit.

For people whose bloating happens after meals, keeping track of food and drink intake for several weeks should help to determine whether specific foods are responsible.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offer tips for keeping a food diary and provide a template for people to get started.

17. Look at supplements and medications

Some supplements, such as iron, can cause constipation and other symptoms of indigestion. This can increase bloating. Potassium, on the other hand, may reduce bloating by helping to balance the body’s sodium levels.

Medications may also cause side effects that affect GI function or cause indigestion. If this happens, a doctor or pharmacist can suggest alternatives that are more gentle on the digestive tract.

 

Reference: Medical News Today

Written by: Omojo Emeje

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Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole

Omeprazole and Lansoprazole belong to a family of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. Either one might be prescribed as an acid reflux treatment.

What causes inflammation of the stomach?

The stomach naturally produces acid in order to aid food digestion and to kill bacteria.

However as this acid is an irritant, a mucus layer is needed to line the stomach in order to provide protection from damage caused by the acid.

When this layer is broken down, inflammation and ulceration of the stomach may occur and could develop further to more serious conditions if not treated. Patients taking Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen may also experience these symptoms.

Other conditions include Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (acid reflux) whereby acid can escape into the oesophagus leading to heartburn and/or oesophagitis.

What are PPIs?

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs such as Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are designed to prevent too much acid from being produced by the cells lining the stomach. This will counteract the formation of ulcers, reduce acid reflux and aid the healing procedure.

Lansoprazole vs Omeprazole: What’s the difference?

There have been many debates into the differences between Lansoprazole and Omeprazole. Both can be used as an effective acid reflux treatment; they are from the same family of drugs. However, although from the same family, there are slight differences that may need to be considered when taking these drugs.

Lansoprazole

Lansoprazole has been known to be the more effective acid reflux treatment and in some cases, considered faster acting. However, antacids such as Gaviscon can reduce the absorption of this medicine from the gastrointestinal tract and may decrease its efficiency. Therefore, Lansoprazole should not be taken within an hour of taking antacids.

You should also consult your doctor if you are anaemic or iron- deficient when taking Lansoprazole. This is because when there is a reduction in acid in the stomach, the absorption of iron and ferrous sulphate is affected; thus reducing the efficacy of these drugs.

Recommended Lansoprazole dosage

Lansoprazole is typically prescribed for once a day usage at 15mg – to be ingested at the same time each morning. Aim to take lansoprazole at least 30 minutes before eating food for best results as taking with food can slow down the digestion of the medication.

Omeprazole

Just like Lansoprazole medication, Omeprazole medication aims to reduce the amount of acid made in your stomach. It’s another popular treatment for acid reflux. Omeprazole is most commonly consumed in tablet form, however, it can also come as a liquid.

Omeprazole may enhance the anti-clotting effects of the anticoagulant warfarin. You should check your INR levels (blood clotting time) before taking this medication and upon stopping it.

Recommended Omeprazole dosage

It is usually recommended that omeprazole is taken before a meal in a single 20mg dose.

The similarities between Lansoprazole and Omeprazole

With both medications, it has been suggested by recent studies that the risk of bone fractures is increased when taken on a long term basis. This can be managed by taking enough calcium and vitamin D to reduce this risk.

Lansoprazole & Omeprazole Side Effects

The majority of people do not experience noticeable side effects of omeprazole or lansoprazole. However, according to NHS guidelines, there are a number of mild side effects that may be experienced by some users taking either omeprazole or lansoprazole. As both PPI medications work in a similar fashion, their side effects are often the same.

More than 1 in 100 people are known to experience:

  • Headaches
  • Sick feeling
  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pain

In addition to this, dizziness and fatigue are also known to be among the side effects of taking omeprazole.

While serious side effects are rare (typically affecting less than one in a thousand people), there are a number of issues associated with taking these medications. They include:

  • Joint pain accompanied by a red rash to the skin
  • Dark urine, tiredness and yellow skin – associated with liver problems brought on by omeprazole

In the event that someone taking Lansoprazole or Omeprazole experiences these symptoms, it is always advisable to consult a GP. If you have experienced an allergic reaction to either of these medications in the past or have a history of liver problems, it is important to mention this to your doctor before beginning a course of treatment.

How long does lansoprazole & omeprazole take to work?

Both lansoprazole and omeprazole typically take 2 to 3 days to have a noticeable effect on the body and in many cases, the medication will only need to be taken for a matter of weeks until the symptoms have subsided entirely.

Summary

Lansoprazole and Omeprazole are both very similar drugs that aim to tackle issues like acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion, gastroesophageal-reflux-disease (GERD) and stomach ulcers.

Both treatments will control the amount of acid being produced in your stomach, leading to a more comfortable lifestyle.

The main differences between the two treatments relate to recommended dosages – Lansoprazole typically requires a lower dosage to treat a problem effectively.

 

Written by: Ore Okebukunola

Posted on:

Natural Remedies for Nausea & Vomiting

Nausea is an uneasiness of the stomach that often accompanies the urge to vomit, but doesn’t always lead to vomiting. Vomiting is the forcible voluntary or involuntary emptying (“throwing up”) of stomach contents through the mouth.

CAUSES OF NAUSEA AND VOMITING
Nausea and vomiting are not diseases, but rather are symptoms of many different conditions, such as
– stress
– motion sickness
– concussion
– food poisoning
– migraine headache
– alcohol abuse
– morning sickness

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR NAUSEA AND VOMITING
– Eat Ginger
– Peppermint Aromatherapy
– Try Acupuncture or Acupressure
– Slice a Lemon
– Cloves
– Fennel
– Try Relaxing Your Muscles
– Take a Vitamin B6 Supplement

In conclusion, natural tips above can help reduce nausea without using medications.

But if your nausea persists, you should definitely seek additional advice from your healthcare practitioner.

 

Written by: Ruth Olusegun

Posted on:

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar has a lot of healthy properties.
It has antimicrobial antioxidant properties, it’s made from fermented apple and water. The particles flowing in it are formed by natural enzymes during fermentation.

A raw, unfiltered and unpasteurised apple cider vinegar has several impressive health benefits and is also used as kitchen staple.
It is used for aiding weight loss and reducing cholesterol.

It also has a ton of different beauty, household, and cooking uses. These include cleaning, washing hair, preserving food, and improving skin function.

You can also use apple cider vinegar in all sorts of recipes, including salad dressings, soups, sauces, hot drinks, and more.

DOSAGE
It is taken as 1-2 teaspoon (5- 10ml) or 1-2 tablespoon (15 – 30ml) per day, mixed with water spread in 2-3 doses
That is 10ml 3 times daily.

It should be taken before meal or on an empty stomach to be effective and to prevent indigestion.

GENERAL USES

1. Taken early morning on an empty stomach, it helps to reduce weight loss, hunger and remove toxins from the system.

2. To lower blood sugar: Apple cider vinegar is claimed to help people with diabetes & manage sugar levels.

3. To help you feel full: Apple cider vinegar is sometimes recommended as a weight loss aid, This is because it may help you feel full.

4. To preserve food: Just like other types of vinegar, apple cider vinegar is an effective preservative. In fact, people have used vinegar as a pickling agent to preserve foods for thousands of years.

5. As a deodoriser: Apple cider vinegar is known to have antibacterial properties. Because of this, it’s often claimed that apple cider vinegar can eliminate bad smells.

6. To soothe a sore throat: Gargling with apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for sore throats.

7. As a facial toner: Anecdotally, apple cider vinegar is claimed to help remedy skin conditions and provide graceful ageing treatment.

8. As a dandruff treatment: Massaging diluted apple cider vinegar into your scalp may help get rid of dandruff.

9. As a mouthwash: Apple cider vinegar is often said to be a useful alternative to commercial mouthwashes. Its antibacterial properties may help with bad breath, although there aren’t any studies examining how effective it is.

10.To treat acne: Dabbing small amounts of diluted apple cider vinegar onto pimples is anecdotally claimed to be a good way to get rid of them.

11. To get rid of warts: As with acne, apple cider vinegar is claimed to be a natural agent for getting rid of warts. It’s likely effective for removing warts from skin, due to its acidic nature.

Generally Apple cider vinegar has various health benefits as home remedy!

Reference – healthline

Written by: Ruth Olusegun

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