Understanding Gastroparesis: Raising Awareness During Gastroparesis Awareness Month

August marks Gastroparesis Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on a condition that often goes unnoticed despite its significant impact on those who live with it. Gastroparesis, derived from the Greek words gastro (stomach) and paresis (partial paralysis), refers to a chronic digestive disorder where the stomach’s ability to empty its contents is slowed down or stopped, even though there is no blockage. 

This condition can lead to severe discomfort and can significantly impair the quality of life.

What is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a condition that disrupts the normal motility of the stomach muscles. Under normal circumstances, strong muscular contractions propel food through the digestive tract. However, in individuals with gastroparesis, these contractions are weakened or dysfunctional, causing food to remain in the stomach longer than it should. This delay in gastric emptying can lead to a host of symptoms, including:

Nausea and vomiting: Patients often experience persistent nausea, leading to frequent vomiting, which can be debilitating.

Bloating and fullness: Even after consuming a small amount of food, patients may feel uncomfortably full or bloated.

Abdominal pain: The sensation of pain or discomfort in the stomach is common, contributing to the overall distress.

Malnutrition: Due to difficulties in eating and retaining nutrients, individuals with gastroparesis are at risk of malnutrition and unintended weight loss.

Fluctuating blood sugar levels: Particularly in those with diabetes, delayed gastric emptying can cause erratic blood sugar levels, complicating management.

The Importance of Awareness

Gastroparesis Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate the public and healthcare professionals about this challenging condition. Despite its prevalence, gastroparesis is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, leading to delays in treatment and unnecessary suffering.

One of the key challenges faced by those with gastroparesis is the lack of a cure. Current treatments focus primarily on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life. These may include dietary modifications, medications to stimulate stomach motility, and in severe cases, surgical interventions.

Supporting Those with Gastroparesis

Living with gastroparesis can be isolating, as the symptoms often interfere with daily activities and social interactions. Raising awareness can foster greater understanding and support for those affected. Here are some ways to contribute:

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the condition and share this knowledge with friends, family, and your community. Understanding the challenges faced by those with gastroparesis can lead to more compassionate and supportive environments.

Advocate for Better Treatment Options: Support research and advocacy efforts aimed at finding more effective treatments and ultimately a cure. Joining patient advocacy groups or supporting relevant charities can make a difference.

Encourage Early Diagnosis: Gastroparesis can be difficult to diagnose due to its overlapping symptoms with other gastrointestinal disorders. Encouraging people to seek medical advice for persistent digestive issues can lead to earlier diagnosis and better management.

Support Affected Individuals: Whether it’s offering a listening ear, helping with meal preparation, or being flexible with social plans, small gestures of support can greatly improve the day-to-day lives of those living with gastroparesis.

Gastroparesis Awareness Month is not just about understanding a medical condition; it’s about recognising the daily battles faced by those living with it. By increasing awareness and fostering a supportive community, we can help improve the lives of individuals with gastroparesis and contribute to the ongoing search for better treatments and, hopefully, a cure.

Let’s use this month to make a difference by spreading knowledge, offering support, and advocating for those whose voices are often unheard. Together, we can create a world where living with gastroparesis is more manageable and less isolating.

https://aboutgastroparesis.org/living-with-gastroparesis/gastroparesis-awareness-month/#:~:text=August%20is%20Gastroparesis%20Awareness%20Month.

There's a friend of this blog Ellie Dyson who suffers from gastroparesis and who is appealing for help to raise funds for an operation that, it is hoped, can help her. Please donate what you can. 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/gastric-pacemaker-to-help-me-live-my-life

Boosting Your Gut Health: The Key to a Strong Immune System

It’s a fascinating fact that approximately 70% of our immune system resides in our gut. This intricate relationship between gut health and overall immunity highlights the importance of nourishing our digestive system. 

A well-balanced gut microbiome not only aids digestion but also fortifies our body’s defence mechanisms. Here, we explore foods and supplements that can help boost gut health and, consequently, enhance our immune system.

The Gut-Immune Connection

Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining our health by:

Supporting Digestion: Breaking down complex carbohydrates, fibres, and proteins.

Synthesising Vitamins: Producing essential vitamins like B12 and K2.

Protecting Against Pathogens: Outcompeting harmful bacteria and producing antimicrobial substances.

Regulating the Immune System: Influencing the development and function of immune cells.

Given these vital functions, maintaining a healthy gut is paramount for a robust immune system. Let’s delve into the foods and supplements that can support and enhance gut health.

Foods to Boost Gut Health

Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can improve the balance of gut microbiota. Including probiotic-rich foods in your diet is an excellent way to boost gut health.

Yoghurt: Look for live cultures on the label.

Kefir: A fermented milk drink loaded with probiotics.

Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage rich in probiotics and fibre.

Kimchi: A spicy Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables.

Miso: A Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans.

Prebiotic Foods

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that feed beneficial gut bacteria. Incorporating prebiotic foods can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Garlic: Contains inulin, a potent prebiotic fibre.

Onions: Rich in prebiotic fibres like fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

Bananas: Particularly green bananas are a good source of resistant starch.

Asparagus: High in inulin and other prebiotic fibres.

Chicory Root: One of the richest sources of inulin.

Fibre-Rich Foods

Dietary fibre is crucial for gut health as it promotes regular bowel movements and provides food for gut bacteria.

Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, quinoa, and barley.

Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas.

Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, pears, carrots, and broccoli.

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods not only contain probiotics but also beneficial enzymes and bioactive peptides.

Tempeh: A fermented soy product that’s rich in probiotics and protein.

Natto: Fermented soybeans, popular in Japan, containing the beneficial bacteria Bacillus subtilis.

Pickles: Naturally fermented pickles (not vinegar-brined) are good sources of probiotics.

Supplements to Support Gut Health

Probiotic Supplements

If getting enough probiotics from food alone is challenging, supplements can be a convenient alternative. Look for supplements with multiple strains of bacteria and a high CFU (colony-forming units) count. Popular strains include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

Prebiotic Supplements

Prebiotic supplements, often containing fibres like inulin and FOS, can help nourish gut bacteria. These are available in powder or capsule form and can be added to smoothies or meals.

Digestive Enzymes

These supplements can assist in breaking down food, aiding digestion, and reducing the burden on the gut. Common enzymes include amylase, lipase, and protease.

L-Glutamine

This amino acid supports the integrity of the gut lining, reducing inflammation and aiding in the repair of the intestinal barrier.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit gut health. Fish oil supplements are a common source of omega-3s.

Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Gut

In addition to diet and supplements, certain lifestyle practices can promote gut health:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and nutrient absorption.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can positively influence gut bacteria.

Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt gut microbiota balance. Practices like yoga and meditation can help.

Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics: Antibiotics can kill beneficial gut bacteria. Use them only when necessary and consider probiotic supplementation afterward.

Conclusion

Understanding the crucial link between our gut and immune system underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive tract. 

By incorporating probiotic and prebiotic foods, considering beneficial supplements, and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, we can support our gut health and, in turn, strengthen our immune system. Take care of your gut, and it will take care of you.

The British Diet Dilemma: A Recipe for Gut Health Concerns

In the culinary tapestry of Britain, a rich amalgamation of flavours, traditions, and influences unfolds. From hearty Sunday roasts to comforting cups of tea, British cuisine holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. 

However, beneath this seemingly diverse spread lies a concerning truth: a significant portion of Brits are skirting dangerously close to gut health issues due to a lack of variety in their diets.

According to recent studies, a staggering three-quarters of Brits are at risk of gut diseases due to their limited dietary repertoire. This revelation casts a shadow over the nation's collective dinner plate, highlighting the need for a culinary awakening.

But how did we arrive at this dietary impasse? In an age of convenience and fast-paced lifestyles, many have fallen into the trap of repetitive eating habits. The allure of quick, processed meals often overshadows the importance of incorporating a diverse range of foods into our daily diets. As a result, our gut microbiome, the delicate ecosystem of bacteria residing in our digestive tracts, suffers the consequences.

Dietary monotony not only deprives our bodies of essential nutrients but also diminishes the microbial diversity crucial for optimal gut health. A lack of variety in our diets can lead to imbalances in gut bacteria, paving the way for a host of digestive woes ranging from bloating and constipation to more severe conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

But fear not, for the remedy lies within our grasp. Embracing diversity on our plates is the key to cultivating a thriving gut microbiome and safeguarding our digestive health. Here are a few simple steps to help steer us towards a more varied and nourishing diet:

Colourful Plate Palette: Aim to incorporate a rainbow of fruits and vegetables into your meals. Each hue brings with it a unique set of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for gut health. From leafy greens to vibrant berries, let nature's palette adorn your plate.

Wholeheartedly Wholegrains: Swap out refined grains for their wholegrain counterparts. Opt for wholemeal bread, brown rice, quinoa, and oats to boost your fibre intake and support digestive regularity.

Probiotic Power: Introduce probiotic-rich foods into your diet to promote a healthy gut microbiome. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are excellent sources of beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and bolster immunity.

Explore New Horizons: Break free from culinary monotony by exploring cuisines from around the globe. From fragrant curries to zesty stir-fries, the world is brimming with diverse flavours waiting to tantalise your taste buds.

Mindful Eating: Slow down, savour each bite, and pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Cultivating mindfulness around eating can help foster a deeper connection with food and enhance digestion.

By embracing variety in our diets, we not only nourish our bodies but also embark on a culinary adventure that tantalises the taste buds and invigorates the senses. Let us heed the call to diversify our plates, for in doing so, we pave the path to vibrant health and gastronomic delight.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition, let us remember the profound impact our dietary choices wield on our gut health. By embracing diversity and celebrating the abundance of flavours at our disposal, we can forge a path towards digestive wellness and culinary fulfillment.

So, let's raise our forks to a future filled with colourful, nourishing meals, a recipe for gut health success in every sense of the word.

Nourishing from Within: The Link Between Gut Health and Overall Wellness

In recent years, the spotlight has shone brightly on the intricate relationship between gut health and our overall well-being. 

This connection has sparked a wave of interest among health enthusiasts, researchers, and medical professionals alike. From digestion to immunity, mental health, and beyond, the gut plays a vital, pivotal role in maintaining our body's equilibrium.

 Let's delve deeper into this fascinating correlation and explore why nurturing our gut health is paramount for holistic wellness.

Understanding the Gut Microbiota

The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiota. This bustling community includes bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms, all coexisting harmoniously within our gastrointestinal tract. Far from being passive bystanders, these microbes actively participate in various physiological processes, influencing everything from nutrient absorption to immune function.

Digestive Harmony

At its core, the gut is responsible for digesting and assimilating nutrients from the foods we consume. A balanced gut microbiome promotes efficient digestion, ensuring essential nutrients are absorbed effectively while waste products are eliminated efficiently. Conversely, an imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to digestive woes such as bloating, wind, constipation, or diarrhoea, signaling an underlying disruption in our gut health.

The Immune Connection

Surprisingly, a significant portion of our immune system actually resides in our gust. The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in regulating immune function, helping distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial microbes. A diverse, thriving gut microbiome is associated with robust immune responses, aiding in the defence against infections and reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Mind-Gut Axis: The Brain Connection

The intricate network of communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, underscores the profound, powerful impact of gut health on mental well-being. Emerging research suggests the gut microbiota can influence mood, cognition, and behaviour through various signalling pathways. Moreover, disruptions in gut health have been linked to psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative diseases.

Nurturing Gut Health

Given the pivotal role of gut health in overall wellness, prioritising strategies to support a thriving gut microbiome is absolutely imperative. Here are some actionable steps to nurture gut health:

Dietary Diversity: Consume a varied diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. These foods provide us with absolutely vital nutrients and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Probiotics and Prebiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods or supplements containing beneficial bacteria strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. 

Also, consider consuming prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, leeks, and bananas, which serve as fuel for the growth of beneficial gut microbes.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt gut health by altering gut motility, increasing intestinal permeability, and affecting microbial composition. Incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature to support gut-brain harmony.

Limiting Antibiotic Use: While antibiotics are vital for treating bacterial infections, indiscriminate use can disrupt the delicate balance of gut microbiota. Whenever possible, opt for narrow-spectrum antibiotics and supplement with probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment to mitigate potential disruptions. Diarrhoea can often strike us when we take certain antibiotics..

Lifestyle Factors: Adequate sleep, regular exercise, and hydration also play crucial roles in maintaining gut health. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle to support overall well-being, including the health of your gut microbiome.

In essence, the link between gut health and overall wellness is profound and multifaceted. By nurturing our gut microbiome through mindful dietary choices, lifestyle modifications, and stress management techniques, we can optimize our physical, mental, and immune health. As the saying goes, "Nourish your gut, and it will nourish you." Let's embark on a journey to cultivate vibrant health from within, starting with the foundation of our gut.

(Image courtesy of David Sánchez-Medina Calderón from Pixabay)

People are more likely to choose healthier or non-alcoholic drinks in 2024

People are more ‘sober curious’ and thus are more likely to choose healthier, more sustainable and ‘premium’ drinks, according to recent research by EHL Hospitality Business School, the world’s best hospitality management university with campuses in Switzerland and Singapore.

Megatrends for the upcoming year are most likely to centre around healthier, cleaner, more sustainable and socially responsible drinks, and movements like mindful drinking have been gaining popularity. Similarly, functional healthy beverages are also on the rise.

With people being more mindful of their health, it makes sense they're also looking to improve their mental well-being, too.

As a result, CBD-infused relaxation drinks are one of the top trends predicted for the upcoming year. Whilst CBD drinks, of course, can’t get you ‘high’, they can help you relax, and are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties, too. 

Other trends include bubble-tea, the Taiwanese drink; or sustainably made and packaged drinks, like boxed wine (yes, boxed wines are making a comeback). Not only is it making a comeback, industry experts are having to come around to the idea boxed wine does not always mean poor quality due to the sustainable and economic benefits of boxed wines.

In terms of “functional healthy beverages”, drinks such as kefir or kombucha seem to be a trend that's here to stay. Gut health is a trending conversation, which helped the fermented beverage industry to see a financial growth over $1 billion, a 5% increase.

Premium drinks are also getting in on the action, with many spirit companies releasing canned cocktails ready for immediate consumption. And for those who aren’t fans of cocktails, drinks like gin and tonic are now readily available in a can, too.

The remainder of 2023 looks to be one filled with a more holistic balance, EHL says, with consumers now having a large variety of drinks to choose from to help them on their sober or health journey, without having to sacrifice flavour or authenticity.

www.ehlgroup.com

Travelling afar? Then ProVen means you'll travel happy

It's a sad fact, but holiday tummy troubles and gut issues caused whilst on holidays and work trips abroad can blight the lives of millions of Britons travelling abroad, with a staggering two-thirds suffering from upset stomachs, a new health survey has learned. 

Travelling abroad and being exposed to new foods and different cultures can have an unfortunate impact on our digestive systems in a number of ways. Providing support for the microbiome can help when we are travelling for work or for pleasure is very important.

Unfamiliar foods, new routines, air travel and exposure to different ‘local’ bacteria may disturb the normal healthy balance of our microbiome and lead to tummy troubles and travellers’ diarrhoea. Which is no joke.

Introducing ProVen Probiotics for Travel - from the world's most clinically proven probiotics brand.

It contains friendly bacteria that has the sole aims of helping to  keep your gut happy, healthy and balanced.

ProVen Probiotics For Travel costs £9.95.

It includes:

○ 12.5 billion ProVen probiotics per capsule

○ For both business and holiday travel

○ With ginger, glutamine, aloe vera and calcium for additional digestive support whilst

travelling.

ProVen Probiotics are available from nationwide Holland & Barrett stores all over the UK.

And you can shop the full range at www.provenprobiotics.com

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/stomach-liver-and-gastrointestinal-tract/stomach