Colon.biz

Screening for colon cancer can save lives

2010-05-14T06:55:00.000-07:00

Physicians recommend screening for colon cancer after the age of 50. Even healthy individuals with no history of colon cancer, colon polyps, Crohn's disease, colitis and other intestinal issues or bleeding should have a colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum. Colonoscopy can detect inflamed tissue, ulcers, and abnormal growths. The procedure is used to look for early signs of colon cancer and can help doctors diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus, and weight loss.

Which treatment is effective in maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis: Probiotic or placebo?

2010-05-04T06:13:00.000-07:00

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic recurrent disease, which mainly consists of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and whose causes are as yet unclear. Many clinical and research studies have indicated that intestinal flora dysbacteriosis contributes to the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis. Probiotics are non-pathogenic beneficial flora, which have important effects on maintaining the balance of intestinal flora. Many studies have discussed the positive effects of probiotics for treating stomach and intestine diseases, including ulcerative colitis. However, the sample size has been relatively small, such that there is no definitive evidence as to whether probiotics are helpful.

A research team from China systematically evaluated probiotics' curative effects for treating ulcerative colitis based on existing random control trials. Their study will be published on April 21, 2010 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology.

Through meta-analysis, they concluded that probiotics should be considered as an auxiliary medicine in the remission induction stage and maintenance stage of ulcerative colitis.

Source: World Journal of Gastroenterology

More IBD Genes Identified

2010-03-26T07:40:00.000-07:00

According to a study published online in the journal Nature Genetics, researchers have identified 13 more genes that are associated with ulcerative colitis. The study looked at the genes of 2,009 people with ulcerative colitis and 1,580 controls in order to determine which genes affected ulcerative colitis. Researchers then place the number of genes now known to be associated with ulcerative colitis at 30, and about half of those are also associated with Crohn’s disease.
While this new information may seem esoteric, it does help further the understanding of the causes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It could be years before this data is able to be applied in any meaningful way for people who have IBD, but every new piece of data brings the medical community one step closer to prevention and effective treatment of IBD.

Sources:
McGovern DP, Gardet A, Törkvist L, et al. “Genome-wide association identifies multiple ulcerative colitis susceptibility loci.” Nat Genet 2010 Mar 14 [Epub ahead of print]. 23 Mar 2010.
This article is a reprint of http://ibdcrohns.about.com/b/2010/03/24/more-ibd-genes-identified.htm
The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News March 24. 2010

Diverticulosis diet

2010-01-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

Diverticulosis Diet

If infection has already occurred it is recommended that a person stick to a low residue diet which will have an effect much like that of constipation. This means that bowel movements will decrease and the infection or inflammation of the diverticula can have a chance to heal.

A low residue diet is one that consists of a daily intake of no more than 10 grams of fiber. While on this diet for an extended period of time it is recommended that a multi-vitamin or mineral supplement be taken daily. This ensures that minerals and vitamins lost while on the low residue diet are made by taking supplements.

Grain products to be eaten while on the low residue diet include:

•refined white bread, buns and english muffins

•cereals including: cornflakes, rice bubbles, special K and cheerios

•biscuits including: arrowroot biscuits and water crackers

•white rice, refined pasta and noodles

•any fruit and vegetable juice excluding prune juice

•stone fruits, melons, grapes and canned fruit salad

•potatoes with no skin, alfalfa sprouts, beetroot, green beans, carrots, celery, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, mushrooms, capsicum, squash and zucchini
•well cooked meat fish and eggs can all be eaten too

AVOID:

•whole grains

•raw and dried fruits, sultanas, raisins, berries

•broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage

•all nuts and seeds

What causes GERD or Acid Reflux?

2009-12-04T11:42:00.000-08:00

The reason some people develop GERD is still unclear. However, research shows that in people with GERD, the LES relaxes while the rest of the esophagus is working. Anatomical abnormalities such as a hiatal hernia may also contribute to GERD. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach and the LES move above the diaphragm, the muscle wall that separates the stomach from the chest. Normally, the diaphragm helps the LES keep acid from rising up into the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia is present, acid reflux can occur more easily. A hiatal hernia can occur in people of any age and is most often a normal finding in otherwise healthy people over age 50. Most of the time, a hiatal hernia produces no symptoms.

Other factors that may contribute to GERD include

-obesity
-pregnancy
-smoking

Acid reflux diet

Common foods that can worsen reflux symptoms include

-citrus fruits
-chocolate
-drinks with caffeine or alcohol
-fatty and fried foods
-garlic and onions
-mint flavorings
-spicy foods
-tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza

Probiotics

2009-12-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Probiotics -- whether they are dietary supplements or foods that contain live, non-disease-causing bacteria normally found in the body -- have been shown to provide numerous benefits to your overall health. There is currently great enthusiasm for foods and supplements such as Bacteral that contain probiotics, and this enthusiasm is evidenced by the amount of commercials on television promoting such products. If you’re not familiar with probiotic, keep reading to find out some of the specific benefits you can gain from introducing probiotics into your diet.

Eating bacteria is good for you?

While it may sound absolutely ludicrous to purposely ingest billions of bacteria to improve your health that is exactly what researchers are recommending. Studies have been going on since the mid-1990s on this very subject.
There are about 100 trillion microorganisms that represent more than 500 different species that are in each and every healthy bowel. They are there because they help keep harmful pathogens at bay, making it difficult for them to do you harm. Let’s take a closer look at what probiotics can actually do.

Digestive Health

Numerous clinical studies have shown that probiotics can treat multiple gastrointestinal ailments such as IBS and lactose intolerance, as well as improve proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Probiotics are often used to help treat diarrhea.

Crohn’s Disease

Other studies have shown that probiotics may be beneficial in helping people with Crohn’s disease. Clinical trial results are mixed, but several small studies suggest that certain probiotics may help maintain remission of ulcerative colitis and prevent relapse of Crohn’s disease and the recurrence of pouchitis (a complication of surgery to treat ulcerative colitis). Because these disorders are so frustrating to treat, many people are giving probiotics a try. More research is needed to find out which strains work best for what conditions.

Urogenital Health

Probiotics are also beneficial in maintaining urogenital health. This is due to the fact that the vagina is like the intestinal tract, a finely balanced ecosystem. The dominant Lactobacilli strains normally make it too acidic for harmful microorganisms to survive. But the system can be thrown out of balance by a number of factors, including antibiotics, spermicides, and birth control pills. Probiotic treatment that restores the balance of microflora may be helpful for such common female urogenital problems as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, and urinary tract infection. Both Oral and vaginal administration of Lactobacilli may help in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, although there isn’t enough evidence yet to recommend it over conventional approaches.

Other Conditions

Research is still being done on the health benefits of probiotics, but early studies show that probiotics may be helpful in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, preventing colon cancer, improving immune function, improving mineral absorption and reducing inflammation. There’s indication that probiotics may even aid in weight loss. With the popularity of probiotics on the rise, it’s likely that research on these benefits will ramp up.

Are probiotics safe?

The best part of probiotic therapy is that it is generally considered safe due to the fact that they are already in the digestive system. This also means that probiotics are typically free of side effects, except for people that have an impaired immune function. This is why it is important that if you are going to “self medicate” to address any of the above conditions with probiotics, you talk with your doctor or healthcare provider so that he or she is aware of what you are doing.

This article is a reprint of
http://www.alternativehealthjournal.com/article/probiotics_what_they_are_and_why_you_need_them_part_2/2532 The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Oct. 28

Ulcerative Colitis Diet

2009-11-11T11:12:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you may feel helpless when facing ulcerative colitis. But changes in your diet and lifestyle may help control your symptoms and lengthen the time between flare-ups.

There's no firm evidence that what you eat causes inflammatory bowel disease. But certain foods and beverages can aggravate your symptoms, especially during a flare-up in your condition. It's a good idea to try eliminating from your diet anything that seems to make your signs and symptoms worse. Here are some suggestions that may help:

Limit dairy products

Like many people with inflammatory bowel disease, you may find that problems, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas, improve when you limit or eliminate dairy products. You may be lactose intolerant — that is, your body can't digest the milk sugar (lactose) in dairy foods. If so, try substituting yogurt or low-lactose cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, for milk. Or use an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose. In some cases, you may need to eliminate dairy foods completely. If you need help, a registered dietitian can help you design a healthy diet that's low in lactose. Keep in mind that with limiting your dairy intake, you'll need to find other sources of calcium, such as supplements.

Experiment with fiber diet

For most people, high-fiber foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, are the foundation of a healthy diet. But if you have inflammatory bowel disease, fiber may make diarrhea, pain and gas worse. If raw fruits and vegetables bother you, try steaming, baking or stewing them.You may also find that you can tolerate some fruits and vegetables, but not others. In general, you may have more problems with foods in the cabbage family, such as broccoli and cauliflower, and with very crunchy foods such as raw apples and carrots.

Avoid problem foods

Eliminate any other foods that seem to make your symptoms worse. These may include "gassy" foods such as beans, cabbage and broccoli, raw fruit juices and fruits — especially citrus fruits — spicy food, popcorn, alcohol, caffeine, and foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as chocolate and soda.

Eat small meals

You may find you feel better eating five or six small meals rather than two or three larger ones.

Drink plenty of liquids

Try to drink plenty of fluids daily. Water is best. Alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine stimulate your intestines and can make diarrhea worse, while carbonated drinks frequently produce gas.

Ask about multivitamins

Because ulcerative colitis can interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients and because your diet may be limited, vitamin and mineral supplements can play a key role in supplying missing nutrients. They don't provide essential protein and calories, however, and shouldn't be a substitute for meals.

Colon polyps

2009-10-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

What are colon polyps?

Colon polyps are small clumps of extra tissue that grow inside the large intestine, also called the colon. Most polyps are benign, which means they are not cancer. But over time, some large polyps can become cancerous.

Who gets colon polyps?

Anyone can get polyps, but you may be more likely to get them if

•you are over 50
•you have had polyps before
•someone in your family has had polyps or colon cancer
•you eat a lot of fatty foods
•you smoke or drink alcohol
•you don’t exercise
•you are overweight

How will I know if I have colon polyps?

Most small polyps don’t cause symptoms. You may not know you have polyps until your doctor checks for them.

But some people do have symptoms, like

•bleeding from the anus, which can leave blood on underwear or toilet paper
•constipation or diarrhea that lasts more than a week
•blood in the stool

Should I be tested for colon polyps?

Talk with your doctor about getting tested for polyps if

•you have symptoms
•you are 50 years old or older
•someone in your family has had polyps or colon cancer

How are colon polyps treated?

Doctors can usually remove polyps during a colonoscopy—the procedure used to check for colon polyps. Sometimes, polyps are removed through an operation.

Colon cancer risks: High-fat diet, family history play role

2009-10-22T10:58:00.000-07:00

Cancers of the colon and rectum will affect one of 17 people. These cancers of the lower digestive tract are the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and Europe. Colorectal cancers are treatable if detected in the early stages. Experts recommend screening for colon cancer beginning at age 50 and screening by age 45 for those with a family history of cancer or those of African-American heritage.

Current screening tests include annual testing of the stool for blood and colonoscopy. Colonoscopy involves using a scope with a tiny camera to look at the lining of the large intestine.

Researchers in Germany are also working on a new blood test that may help find colon cancer. The lining of the intestinal tract can develop small pre-cancerous growths called polyps which can usually be removed during a screening colonoscopy. If these polyps are not removed, they can become cancerous.
Risk factors for developing colon cancer are:

•Family history of colon cancer or colon polyps.

•Low-fiber, high-fat diet. Colorectal cancers are associated with a diet high in fat and calories that lacks enough fiber or roughage. Add more fruits and vegetables and whole grains to your daily diet. Limit fried and fatty foods. Cut back on added fats such as butter, margarine, salad dressing, mayonnaise, gravies and sauces.

•A sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk for colon cancer. Experts recommend daily activity of at least one hour. Walking, biking, swimming, chair aerobics and most sports are great.

•Diabetes and obesity. Insulin resistance and excess weight increase the risk of developing colon cancer and the risk of death from it.

•Smoking and alcohol use.

•Inflammatory intestinal conditions. Chronic intestinal problems like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can increase risk.

•Older age. About 90 percent of all colon cancer occurs in people over age 50.
Many people do not experience any unusual symptoms. Make an appointment to see your health care provider if you notice any change in your bowel habits that lasts more than two weeks, blood in your stool or persistent abdominal cramping or gas. If you have any unplanned weight loss, weakness or fatigue, get a checkup.

This article is a reprint of
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20090929/COL0803/909290355/1292/health/Colon-cancer-risks--High-fat-diet--family-history-play-role The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Sep. 29

Colon and raw food diet

2009-09-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

The raw and living food diet is about eating whatever you want, whenever you want!

You can lose weight, start to heal your body, increase your energy, and look and feel younger within days of eating raw.

There are numerous benefits to eating a raw and living food diet.

Some of these benefits include helping people who are challenged with diabetes, fibromyalgia, acne, migraines, back pain, neck and joint pain, asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hypoglycemia, colitis, diverticulitis, candida, arthritis, allergies, depression, anxiety, mood swings, heartburn, gas, bloating, skin diseases, obesity, chronic fatigue, cancers and many more.

How probiotics can help your autistic child

2009-09-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

It's well documented that many autistic children suffer from digestive issues. What you may not know is that things like constipation, diarrhea, and yeast can cause problems elsewhere in the body. Your immune system, your brain power, even your behavior can be affected.

If the digestive tracked is all blocked up (or can't keep anything in), it means that your body can't absorb all the nutrition it needs from the foods you eat. Without the proper vitamins and minerals your child's body cannot function at it's best.

It's important to make sure your children get enough fiber in their diet, which help can calm their digestive distress. Another great way is to offer them something called probiotics. Probiotics are a "good" bacteria that keep your digestive system running smoothly. Then the rest of your body can improve how it absorbs and uses the nutrition you provide for it. You can find probiotics in many different forms like capsules, flavored chew ables, and even in yogurt for those that aren't on a casein free diet. Check the labels to make sure the ingredient list complies with your dietary restrictions (if you have any) and that it contains at least one billion active/live cultures in each serving. This may seem like a lot, but it's actually the typical number for most probiotic supplements.

Within a few weeks of starting the probiotics, you should notice a positive change in your child's bathroom habits, and their mood!

As always, it's a good idea to talk to a health care professional before starting any supplement regimen, so make sure to get some advice from your pediatrician.

This article is a reprint of http://www.examiner.com/x-20961-Orlando-Autism--Parenting-Examiner~y2009m9d6-How-probiotics-can-help-your-autistic-child The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Sep 6, 2009‎

Study IDs patients likely to have colonoscopy discomfort

2009-09-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

A British study of 109 patients found women were more likely to report abdominal discomfort during colonoscopy, along with those who had a difficult procedure or preceding gastroscopy, and people with irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers said they were surprised by the "relatively high levels of discomfort" reported but suggested it may have partly been driven by the fact people were asked about discomfort every two minutes during the procedure.

This article is a reprint ofhttp://www.smartbrief.com/news/dhsb/storyDetails.jsp?issueid=109FD8C3-35A1-4414-A6B5-0B1FA5613622©id=3B72C200-6D21-4039-8749-4332CD9A5853 The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Sep 4, 2009‎

What's IBD

2009-09-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

IBD encompasses two main diseases, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. However, there are important differences between the two conditions. Crohn's disease can show up in any portion of the digestive tract from the rectum up to the esophagus, while ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon. IBD is a chronic disease that typically causes inflammation and pain in the intestines, but especially the colon. The degree of inflammation varies between individuals but is characterized by intestinal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, pain, weight loss, and sometimes fever. IBD does not remain static over time. People experience flare-ups and then periods of relative calm.

The Importance of Colon Screenings

2009-09-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

There are several reasons people don't get the colon screenings they should. People say they are inconvenient, the preparation prior to the test can be unpleasant, and many simply don't understand the importance of regular colon screenings. The fact remains, regular colon screening for both men and women is the best way to monitor colon health and to catch any problems such as colon cancer early.

This article is a reprint of http://menshealth.about.com/b/2009/09/07/the-importance-of-colon-screenings-3.htm The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Sep 7, 2009‎

For more information on colonoscopy visit www.colonoscopy.org

Colon Cancer Stopped in Its Tracks in Swiss Study

2009-09-09T07:03:00.000-07:00

Gene-based treatment could block tumors, prevent recurrence, researchers say

Swiss scientists report that they may have found a way to stop colon cancer in its tracks by tinkering with a genetic pathway that allows cells to communicate with one another.

The treatment potentially could help prevent colon cancer from reaching advanced stages and moving to other organs.

The research, published Aug. 27 in the journal EMBO Molecular Medicine, showed that blocking a communications pathway known as Hedgehog-GLI (HH-GLI) could block tumors because they rely on the pathway to grow.

"Previous works hinted at the possible role of HH-GLI in colon cancer, but this was denied by other studies, so its involvement was never entirely clear," lead researcher Professor Ariel Ruiz i Altaba of Geneva University, said in a news release from the journal's publisher. "In this study we have proven that HH-GLI is essential for the development and growth of colon cancers."

The research could lead to new anti-cancer treatments
that may help prevent colon cancer from metastasizing to other areas of the body, even after a patient appears to have recovered.

"Recurrence is a major problem in cancer treatment," Ruiz i Altaba added.

The researchers used cyclopamine, a product derived from plants, to block the pathway in mice with cancer shortly after their tumors disappeared. The mice lived up to one year and remained tumor-free.

Colon and rectal cancer kill an estimated 50,000 Americans each year, according to the American Cancer Society.

More information

To learn more about colon cancer, visit the U.S. National Cancer Institute.

This article is a reprint of http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/healthday/2009/08/28/colon-cancer-stopped-in-its-tracks-in-swiss-study.html The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Sep 8, 2009‎

Aspirin: New Weapon in Colon Cancer Fight?

2009-09-06T16:55:00.000-07:00

There is good news in the fight against the second deadliest form of cancer, colorectal cancer: a treatment could be as close as your very own medicine cabinet.

Dr. Jennifer Ashton appeared on "The Early Show" Wednesday to discuss the new findings.

Nearly 50,000 Americans will die of this disease this year alone. But the new research finds something as simple as Aspirin could help those diagnosed with colon cancer live longer.

Fifty-four year old former fire chief Thomas Reinecke thought his abdominal pains were caused by stress, but a colonoscopy revealed he had colon cancer.

"I felt like my whole world caved in on me. I wasn't expecting that and wasn't quite sure how to react or how to handle it," he recalled.

Reinecke wanted to get back to battling fires, and saving lives and now, a new study shows simple Aspirin could help that fight.

"Aspirin may turn out to have a significant benefit in terms of improving survival for colon cancer patients," explained Dr. Alfred Neugut from New York Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center.

The study looked at over 1,200 colon cancer patients; those who took Aspirin after their diagnosis reduced their risk of dying from the disease by 29 percent.

Most colon cancer tumors produce an enzyme called COX-2, which triggers the cancer cells to grow. The theory is Aspirin may work by blocking COX-2 and preventing cancer growth.

"We should remember aspirin has side effects. We'll wait and see if it becomes part of the standard treatment for colon cancer," Dr. Neugut added.

Today, Reinecke is finishing his chemotherapy, excited that something cheap, and found in most medicine cabinets could help make him well. "If Aspirin will help, I'll be the first one on board for that," he said.

The study looked at patients whose cancer had not yet spread. So future research will likely try to determine if Aspirin can help people with more advanced disease.

Asked if this means everyone with colon cancer should start taking an Aspirin a day, Ashton explained that it's really too early to make an across-the-board recommendation. This study was an "observational" study meaning researchers merely observed what patients were already doing, such as taking Aspirin for headaches.

On average, the patients in this study took two adult aspirins a week. But the findings really need to be confirmed in a drug trial where patients would be randomly assigned to either take Aspirin or a placebo in order to verify the results and make sure it was the Aspirin responsible for longer survival rates and not something else.

And there are side effects to remember. Aspirin is a powerful medication and can potentially have serious side effects, such as bleeding and stomach irritation. And it's also unclear how it may interact with other medications commonly used to treat colon cancer. So patients should definitely talk to their doctors about weighing the risks vs. benefits.

This article is a reprint ofhttp://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/08/12/earlyshow/health/main5235996.shtml The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Aug 12, 2009‎

Battling bacteria

2009-09-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Probiotics show promise in some colitis sufferers

While we’ve all been hit with a bad case of diarrhea and severe cramping after eating something that we probably shouldn’t have, imagine having to live with these debilitating symptoms in a prolonged and recurrent manner for years or even decades. Such is the plight of those often young individuals affected by inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD. This edition of HealthWatch looks at new research suggesting that replacing the bad bacteria in the colon with the good shows promise for at least one form of this condition.

What is IBD?

IBD encompasses two main diseases, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease. However, there are important differences between the two conditions. Crohn’s disease can show up in any portion of the digestive tract from the rectum up to the esophagus, while ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon. IBD is a chronic disease that typically causes inflammation and pain in the intestines, but especially the colon. The degree of inflammation varies between individuals but is characterized by intestinal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, pain, weight loss, and sometimes fever. IBD does not remain static over time. People experience flare-ups and then periods of relative calm.

How prevalent is IBD?

Twenty to 30 per cent of IBD cases occur in people under age 20. The overall incidence in Canada is among the highest worldwide. There are currently more than 200,000 Canadians living with the condition, of which 112,000 people have Crohn’s and 88,000 suffer from ulcerative colitis. What’s more, the numbers have increased, possibly due to environmental factors that may affect the immune system. In addition, recent increased awareness among physicians and the public may be leading to more patients being diagnosed and at an earlier age.

What causes IBD?

There isn’t one universal cause for IBD; rather, several elements come into play, including genetic factors. When it comes to flare-ups, certain harmful types of bacteria such as c. difficile may contribute by triggering an immune system response that leads to intestinal inflammation. It has also been hypothesized that certain drugs – such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and antibiotics – along with previous infections and acute stress can trigger IBD flare-ups; however, the research on this is controversial and the evidence is weak.

How does a doctor arrive at a diagnosis? Why might diagnosis be delayed?

IBD is one of those conditions in medicine that is not black or white. One of the grey areas is diagnosis, which may be delayed due to the fact that symptoms can point to other conditions, such as bowel infections. For this reason, a doctor may arrive at a diagnosis of IBD in part by elimination of other causes. Ultimately, a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be performed to view the lining of the colon and do a biopsy.

Treatment

Current treatment for IBD focuses on suppressing or at least modulating a person’s immune system response. Medication typically consists of aminosalicylates – aspirin-like drugs – steroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics – drugs that specifically target one’s immune system.

The study

Sood A, Midha V, Makharia GK, Ahuja V, Singal D, Goswami P, Tandon RK. The probiotic preparation, VSL#3 induces remission in patients with mild-to-moderately active ulcerative colitis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. Jul 21, 2009.

Why was this study undertaken?

While cortisone and other immunosuppressant drugs are the focus of treatment, they are potentially risky, with both immediate and long-term side effects. Specifically, given what is believed about the causes of flare-ups, the idea has been that by restoring the balance between bad and good bacteria, patients with flare-ups settle down more quickly; and by keeping the good bacteria in charge, the likelihood of a relapse drops significantly.

So what happened in this study?

In this randomized, placebo controlled study of 154 adults with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis, half received a daily regimen of a probiotic called VSL#3 and the other half received a placebo powder of similar appearance. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that survive the stomach and make their way down to the colon; VSL#3 is a mixture of eight strains and was provided at a daily dose of 3,600 billion bacteria in sachets of powder to be taken twice a day mixed in either water or yogourt.

What were the findings?

The results were quite promising and pretty consistent with the other research in this area, often conducted in children. One third of the group that was given the probiotic experienced a greater than 50 per cent improvement in their symptoms in addition to other measures of how active their UC was; only 10 per cent of the placebo group got that much better. The benefits were sustained to the 12-week mark and thus appeared to promote remission. Of note, one third of the patients in the probiotic group found that their symptoms were getting worse and did not complete the study although almost half of the placebo group felt the same way and failed to get to the end.

Should UC sufferers take probiotics?

This study, supported by the makers of VL#3, requires confirmation in larger government-sponsored trials before being advocated for widespread use. On the other hand, these supplements appear to be genuinely helpful for some UC sufferers and, while not cheap, are likely to be safe, so there’s probably no harm in giving them a try. VL#3 can be ordered online and might be reimbursed by some insurance companies.

n The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada is sponsoring the All that Glitters Gala at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available by calling the CCFC at 514-342-0666.

The material provided in HealthWatch is designed for general educational purposes only and does not pertain to individual cases. It should not replace necessary medical consultations with your own doctor or medical professional.

This article is a reprint of http://www.montrealgazette.com/health/HealthWatch+Battling+bacteria/1962642/story.html The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Sept 4 , 2009‎

Colorectal Cancer Attitudes Vary by Ethnicity

2009-09-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

Men and people of South Asian descent are more likely to have unfavorable perceptions of colon cancer screening, research from the UK shows.

The findings point the way toward strategies to get more people screened, Dr. Taina Taskila of the University of Birmingham, a researcher on the study, told Reuters Health.

For any type of cancer, she noted, it can be difficult to encourage people to get screened and increase awareness of potential symptoms. "It's one of the most feared of all illnesses and people ... don't want to know about it if they don't have to," she said.

Survival from colorectal cancer is much more likely if the disease is detected early, but most cases are found relatively late, Taskila and her colleagues note in the British Journal of Cancer.

The UK launched a national program in 2006 to screen all men and women 60 to 69 years old with a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), in which the stool is tested for blood. But studies looking at "uptake" of screening have found fewer than 60 percent of eligible people are getting tested.

Attitudes toward colorectal cancer screening are a key determinant in whether a person actually gets the test, the researchers add. To better understand why people might be reluctant to undergo screening, they surveyed 11,355 people about their attitudes toward both FOBT and colonoscopy, as well as whether they had symptoms that could indicate colorectal cancer.

While other researches have investigated attitudes toward screening, Taskila noted in an interview, this study is the first to look at whether having symptoms influences these attitudes.

Overall, the researchers found, 14 percent of the people surveyed had a negative perception of colorectal cancer screening in general, with 13 percent saying they felt FOBT was "very unacceptable" or "unacceptable," and 55 percent saying the same of colonoscopy.

Negative attitudes were more common among men, older people, and people of South Asian heritage.

This article is a reprint of http://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory?id=8417962 The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Aug 26, 2009‎

Better health, take charge: Dietary fiber will help protect your digestive tract

2009-08-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

What you should know

Almost everyone has occasional constipation, gas or abdominal cramping.

Your diet is extremely important in reducing abdominal discomfort and improving regularity. Dietary fiber -- sometimes called roughage -- is crucial in regulating your digestive tract.

Foods from plants are a primary source of dietary fiber. A daily variety of plant foods -- cereals and grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts -- can help to prevent future gastrointestinal problems in most people.

There are two basic forms of fiber: soluble (dissolves in water) and insoluble (moves through your gastrointestinal tract without dissolving in water). Both types of fiber are important to maintain your health.

Soluble fiber is good for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar (glucose levels). Soluble fiber picks up water and changes into a gel-like substance as it goes through your digestive tract. Examples of soluble fiber foods are beans, peas and lentils (legumes), oatmeal, broccoli, root vegetables (like carrots and potatoes) and many fruits -- bananas, pears, apples, prunes, plums and many berries.

Insoluble fiber is indigestible. It generally passes through your body unchanged. Insoluble fiber foods help to prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticulitis and irritable bowel syndrome. They can regularly push solids and liquids through your digestive system. Good sources of insoluble fiber foods include wheat bran, whole-wheat foods, nuts and seeds, and some vegetables, such as celery, green beans and zucchini, and the skin of some fruits and vegetables.

High-fiber foods may help people lose weight. People who eat high-fiber diets seem less likely to overeat. These foods often make you feel full longer. They may require more chewing. They frequently provide fewer calories per serving than many meats or high-fat foods such as chocolate cake or ice cream.

Food preferences start in early childhood. Bowel problems frequently start in childhood, and often stem from a lack of dietary fiber that leads to chronic constipation.

Most people take in only 12-18 grams of fiber each day. Many experts feel that the lack of dietary fiber intake is contributing to our obesity epidemic. Experts suggest that most adults eat 20-35 grams of dietary fiber per day.

What you should do

Eat breakfast. Check labels to see which breakfast foods are high in fiber, such as cold cereals or hot oatmeal. Breakfast can also stimulate your metabolism and your digestive system so that regularity is maintained.

Drink water regularly. Water works with fiber to improve bowel habits and to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar.

Don't add too much fiber too quickly to your diet. A large sudden increase in fiber can cause gas and discomfort.

If your family resists the idea of more fiber, hide bran, nuts and seeds in the foods that you prepare. Good places to add fiber are muffins, meatloaf, casseroles, and even cookies and salads. Buy breads with extra fiber.

Aim for 38 grams of fiber or more if you are a man and 25 grams or more if you are a woman age 50 or younger.

Promote wholesome snacks that provide extra fiber in your household. Examples include baby carrots, celery sticks with hummus, or apples coated with peanut butter. Dried fruit and whole-grain crackers are also good choices.

Buy whole-grain products when possible. Whole-grain foods are a healthier choice than white flour for most people.

Don't add only one type of fiber to your diet. Be sure to include a variety of high-fiber foods in your daily diet.

Fiber supplements can help with occasional problems, but they should not be the only source of fiber in your diet.

Experiment with new recipes to add fiber to traditional foods. For example, add black beans to your nachos or add nuts, fruits or beans to a green salad.

Read labels to be sure you are buying something that is high in fiber, but is also low in fat, salt and sugar.

Help form your children's preferences for high-fiber foods by ensuring that they are part of their diets early on.

If you have had chronic constipation, check with your doctor first to see how much fiber should be in your diet. You may need to increase fiber intake gradually to achieve normal bowel movements.

This article is a reprint of http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/aug/17/dietary-fiber-will-help-protect-your-digestive/ The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. Aug 16, 2009‎

Colonoscopy in the a.m. may have best pre-cancer detection rate

2009-08-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

Colonoscopy performed in the morning is more likely to detect pre-cancerous polyps than the same test done in the afternoon according to a study published in the July issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology .

Researchers from the Cleveland Clinic analyzed results from over 3600 colonoscopies and found that not only were a higher percentage of polyps detected in these patients screened in the morning, but the detection rates dropped off as the day wore on. The authors speculated that fatigue of the GI doctors performing the procedure may have played a role in these results, but stated that the findings should be studied further.

In an accompanying editorial, Joseph Vicari, MD pointed out that the morning group of patients had a higher number of men who are more likely to have polyps than women. In addition, the morning group tended to be older and more of them had a history of polyps than the afternoon group, which could also have skewed the data. Nevertheless, he felt that if the findings could be validated in a prospective study, there might be a need to consider scheduling fewer colonoscopies in the afternoon to improve polyp detection rates.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death in the US. In 2008, about 149,000 Americans were diagnosed with the disease, and 50,000 died of it. Experts believe that adequate screening could have prevented perhaps 60 percent of those deaths.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force now recommends screening colonoscopy every ten years starting at the age of 50. If there is a family history of colon cancer or some other increased risk factor such as ulcerative colitis, screening should be done before age 50. Discuss how often is appropriate for you with your primary care physician.

This article is a reprint of http://www.examiner.com/x-9303-Miami-Health-Care-Examiner~y2009m8d16-Colonoscopy-in-the-am-may-have-best-precancer-detection-rate The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. ‎Au1 16 , 2009‎

Colon: IBD diagnoses rise by 50% in kids

2009-08-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

Study findings add new urgency to understanding the root causes of IBD

The number of Ontario children diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease shot up 50 per cent in a decade, according to a new study.

The findings, published in today's issue of the medical journal Gut, add new urgency to understanding the root causes of IBD, a sometimes debilitating life-long condition for which Canada already has the highest rates in the world.

Eric Benchimol, a pediatric gastroenterologist at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and the principal investigator, said the study was designed to get a handle on how many children are being diagnosed with Crohn's disease and colitis, ulcerative colitis (the two main forms of IBD), but the question everyone wants answered is why the numbers are on the rise.

He said there are three likely reasons for the increase:

A change in immigration patterns that has resulted in an influx of immigrants from South Asian countries such as Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India, who seem prone to IBD when they move to Western countries;

More awareness about the condition - particularly among physicians - resulting in more prompt diagnosis. The diagnostic tools have also improved;

Environmental changes that are somehow causing changes to the immune system, similar to what is occurring with the rise of allergies and asthma.

"It's an immune-system-mediated disease caused by a combination of genetics and environment," Dr. Benchimol said. "We also know that Western lifestyle plays a key role."

The gut is colonized by trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi living in complex harmony and it is believed that Crohn's and colitis can be triggered when the balance is upset.

There are more than 200,000 Canadians living with inflammatory disease (about 10 per cent of them children), according to a report published last year by the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada.

That number includes about 112,000 people with Crohn's and 88,500 with ulcerative colitis. The latter is an inflammation of the large bowel, while the former describes an inflammation anywhere in the bowel, from the rectum up to the esophagus.

While Crohn's and ulcerative colitis are principally illnesses diagnosed in early adulthood, the new study notes that they are increasingly being seen in children.

The study in Gut found the prevalence of IBD in those under the age of 18 increased to 56.3 per 100,000 in 2005 from 42.1 per 100,000 children in 1994 and that it is no longer uncommon for children under the age of 10 to be diagnosed.

George Tolomiczenko, executive director of research at the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada, said the new numbers are troubling because IBD requires life-long treatment.

"We're still looking for a cure so, for now, all we can do is treat the symptoms," he said.

Dr. Tolomiczenko said IBD sufferers tend to be asymptomatic most of the time, but they get hit by flare-ups. Both the suppression of symptoms and treating flare-ups requires medication, ranging from steroids to TNF (tumour necrosis factor) blockers, and they have sometimes serious side effects. Earlier this week, for example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned that TNF blockers, used to treat serious inflammation, can cause cancer in children.

About 70 per cent of IBD sufferers also have surgery to remove fistulas or a part of their bowel.

Aside from the physical symptoms, IBD is a condition that carries a lot of social stigma because of issues surrounding ready access to toilets and difficulty with physical intimacy because of bowel problems.

Symptoms of IBD including a swollen gut, abdominal pain, bloody stools and frequent diarrhea. In children, it is marked by a perpetually sore tummy and prolonged bouts of diarrhea.

The economic cost of IBD exceeds $1.8-billion a year, including $700-million in direct medical costs, according to the foundation report.

ANDRÉ PICARD

From Thursday's Globe and Mail
This article is a reprint ofhttp: //www.theglobeandmail.com/life/ibd-diagnoses-rise-by-50-in-kids/article1242911 The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. ‎Aug 6, 2009‎

Toward An Explanation For Crohn's Disease?

2009-08-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

Twenty-five per cent of Crohn's disease patients have a mutation in what is called the NOD2 gene, but it is not precisely known how this mutation influences the disease. The latest study by Dr. Marcel Behr, of the Research Institute of the MUHC and McGill University, has provided new insight into how this might occur.

When the NOD2 gene functions normally, it codes for a receptor that will recognize invading bacteria and then trigger the immune response. This study demonstrates that the NOD2 receptor preferentially recognizes a peptide called N-glycolyl-MDP, which is only found in a specific family of bacteria called mycobacteria. When mycobacteria invade the human body, they cause an immediate and very strong immune response via the NOD2 receptor.

"Now that we have a better understanding of the normal role of NOD2, we think that a mutation in this gene prevents mycobacteria from being properly recognized by the immune system," explained Dr. Behr. "If mycobacteria are not recognized, the body cannot effectively fight them off and then becomes persistently infected."

Researchers were already aware of the relationship between mycobacteria and Crohn's disease, but they did not know whether the presence of bacteria was a cause or a consequence of the disease. This new discovery associates the predisposition for Crohn's disease with both the NOD2 mutation and the presence of mycobacteria, but researchers must still determine the precise combination of these factors to understand how the disease develops.

More research is required to establish a complete explanation. From this, it is expected that new therapeutic approaches that fight the cause of Crohn's disease may be developed.

This study was funded by a grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). The salaries of some researchers were provided by the Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec.

This article was co-authored by François Coulombe, Maziar Divanghi, Frédéric Veyrier, Louis de Léséleuc, Dr. Michael B. Reed and Dr Marcel Behr from the Research Institute of the MUHC; James L. Gleason of McGill University; and Yibin Yang, Michelle A. Kelliher, Amit K. Pandey, and Christopher M. Sassetti of the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

This article is a reprint of http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090709095429.htm/ The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News. ‎Jul 20, 2009‎

Colon: Colitis Comparision

2009-07-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

The most common disease that mimics the symptoms of ulcerative colitis is Crohn's disease, as both are inflammatory bowel diseases that can affect the colon with similar symptoms. It is important to differentiate these diseases, since the course of the diseases and treatments may be different. In some cases, however, it may not be possible to tell the difference, in which case the disease is classified as indeterminate colitis.

Colon: Colon Health - Why It's Important

2009-06-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

With 655,000 deaths worldwide per year, colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the Western world.

70% of your immune system, which keeps you healthy, is found in your digestive tract. Your colon, or large intestine, is the main hub of your digestive tract. Keeping your colon healthy, helps strengthen your body's immune system and helps prevent colon cancer.

Using a probiotic like SeroLife®, can help administer adequate amounts of microorganisms to confer a health benefit to your colon. SeroLife® Probiotic bacterial cultures are intended to assist the body's naturally occurring gut flora, an ecology of microbes, to re-establish themselves.

SeroLife® is sometimes recommended by doctors, and, more frequently, by nutritionists, after a course of antibiotics, or as part of the treatment for gut related problems. In these cases, the bacteria that work well with our bodies may decrease in number, an event which allows harmful competitors to thrive, to the detriment of our health. Using SeroLife® Probiotics strengthen the immune system to combat allergies, excessive alcohol intake, stress, exposure to toxic substances, and other diseases.

Probiotics has become a dietary staple for individuals looking to improve colon health.

Improves Irritable Bowel Syndrome Symptoms & Ulcerative Colitis & Colitis
Maintains a healthy beneficial gut flora
Fosters health and immunity
Manages Lactose Intolerance
Reduces inflammation
Lowers blood pressure
Lowers Cholesterol
Helps prevent colon cancer
Aid in Treating H-pylori
Ideal for use after certain medications that can destroy good bacteria
Improves Mineral Obsorption
Improves immune system function

Alli diet pills and Digestive Disorders

2009-06-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Alli diet pills: 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 fat burners, since this drug would likely make your diarrhea much worse. However 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.