Here are the Facts You Need to Understand About GI Health

The medical community has known for a long time that the food we eat, and our gastrointestinal well-being, can have a notable influence on our longevity and quality of living. Current research, however, illustrates that the correlation between GI health and overall wellness is even stronger than we previously thought.

The GI doctors at Arizona Digestive Health aspire to be at the forefront of digestive health research so we can better teach and help our patients. If you've never thought about how your digestive health may impact your entire body, read below to learn more from our Arizona digestive health group.

Why is digestive wellness essential?

To begin, it is helpful to establish what "gut health" refers to. Inside your intestines are trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that together form a microbiome. A microbiome might be affected by multiple elements, like the foods you eat and the microorganisms within the environment.

As our diets have changed and our hygiene habits evolved, researchers have discovered a decline in the microbial diversity of people living in developed countries. At the same time, doctors have observed a climb in cases of asthma, food allergies, and other ailments in those same populations. While our understanding of the microbiome is still limited, certain researchers think that these tendencies (or trends) point to a close relationship between gastrointestinal health and general wellness.

Furthermore, evidence reveals that an irregular microbiome could be an indicator of the advancement of chronic illnesses (like inflammatory bowel disease), autoimmune disorders, and even psychological conditions like depression.

What can be done to help improve my digestive health?

The most effective method to maximize your GI health is by implementing regular principles that will help you cultivate a flourishing microbiome. These encompass:

• Ingesting a diverse, balanced diet
• Supplementing your natural microbes with probiotic foods similar to items like sauerkraut, yogurt, etc.
• Consuming foods that are rich in fiber
• Restricting the consumption of processed foods and substances like alcohol
• Exercising regularly and sustaining physical activity
• Losing excess weight

You may also monitor your digestive health by paying attention to changes in your digestive habits, whether you're experiencing discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or any other unusual concerns. It is important to talk with a GI doctor if you are dealing with any unsettling symptoms. The digestive providers at Arizona Digestive Health will work to prioritize the root of your gastrointestinal problems and help you progress with an effective treatment so you can enhance your health.

When should I seek treatment for my GI symptoms?

In the event minor gastrointestinal issues (like stomach aches, heartburn, diarrhea, or bloating) fail to resolve within a two-week stretch on their own or with help from OTC medications, you should request professional care. These symptoms can be a signal of an underlying gut concern. It's important to take note of symptoms, in addition to how often they occur, their severity, and what might be causing them, as these findings can help your physician evaluate any concerns and suggest a treatment option. Consistent or serious symptoms ought to be looked at by a GI provider.

Additionally, we strongly urge that you speak with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible if you are experiencing severe pain, rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits, or if your set of symptoms coexists with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Remember that it is always better to be cautious than sorry as it relates to your health. Contact our practice at your earliest convenience to visit a board-certified GI doctor in Arizona who can provide the support you require to live in comfort again without the discomfort or GI troubles.

Connect with a GI doctor in Arizona

Scientists and medical researchers have only started to touch the surface when it comes to determining how the digestive system might impact a person's general health. In the event you experience issues with your digestive health or are at elevated risk of diseases like colon cancer because of family history or other determinants, we invite you to meet with a board-certified gastroenterologist at Arizona Digestive Health. Our skilled digestive specialists serve the health needs of each patient with understanding and advanced ability. Contact our Arizona GI physicians today to schedule a consultation.