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	<title>www.drgranny.com &#187; digestive system</title>
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		<title>What is Acidity?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/12/10/what-is-acidity/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/12/10/what-is-acidity/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Dec 2011 04:50:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Causes of acidity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Herbs for acidity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What is acidity?]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Acidity is a common health issue which can cause severe problems if left untreated. Stress and bad diet are the main causes of acidity. Our stomach secretes acids to help...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:right;margin-left:5px"                     src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Acidity1-300x127.jpg" alt="Acidity" title="Acidity" width="300" height="127" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-4184" /></a></p>
<p>Acidity is a common health issue which can cause severe problems if left untreated. Stress and bad diet are the main causes of acidity. Our stomach secretes acids to help in digestion of food. But due to certain causes, there may over-production of acid than what is required. This situation causes irritation and pain in the stomach. This condition is called acidity or APD (Acid Peptic Disease). </p>
<p><strong>Causes of Acidity</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Common causes are inadequate consumption of water, improper chewing of food and bad eating habits. </li>
<li>Eating too much spicy and junk food</li>
<li>Eating fast or while in a bad mood</li>
<li>Smoking and excess alcohol consumption</li>
<li>Heavy meal </li>
<li>Skipping breakfast and giving too much gap between meals</li>
<li>Bad food combination and indisciplined eating habits </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Symptoms of Acidity</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Sour belching</li>
<li>Loss of appetite and interest in eating</li>
<li>Burping</li>
<li>Dyspepsia</li>
<li>Feeling of nausea</li>
<li>Heartburn</li>
<li>Burning stomach inside the stomach</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Diseases that can Cause Hyperaciditiy</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Gastric ulcers</li>
<li>Gallstones</li>
<li>Hypercalcemia</li>
<li>Zollinger-Ellisson Syndrome</li>
<li>Helicobacter Pylori</li>
<li>Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – GERD</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>How to Prevent Acidity</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Quit smoking and drinking alcohol</li>
<li>Do not sleep immediately after a meal</li>
<li>Avoid staying up late at night</li>
<li>Eat only when you are hungry</li>
<li>Drink plenty of water every day</li>
<li>Avoid junk and spicy foods</li>
<li>Eat more alkaline foods </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Herbs for Acidity</strong><br />
The following herbs can effectively cure acidity: </p>
<ul>
<li>Bitter gourd</li>
<li>Turmeric</li>
<li>Liquorice</li>
<li>Turpeth root</li>
<li>Acorus Calamus</li>
<li>Indian gooseberry </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Home Remedies for Acidity</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Eat vegetables rich in vitamins B and E.</li>
<li>Exercise and indulge in physical activities regularly. </li>
<li>Do not drink beverages immediately after a meal.</li>
<li>Eat almonds to cure heartburn.</li>
<li>Watermelon and cucumber fight acidity. </li>
<li>Mix lemon juice in water and drink it to prevent heartburn. </li>
<li>Fresh mint juice is a great home remedy for acidity. </li>
<li>Basil leaves give relief from acidity and nausea.</li>
<li>Coconut water is also useful. </li>
<li>Mix honey and two spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar in water and drink before meals. </li>
<li>Avoid pickles and raw salads.</li>
<li>Clove and ginger are effective remedies.</li>
<li>Drink a glass of milk every day.</li>
<li>Eat your dinner a couple of hours before hitting the bed. </li>
</ul>
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		<item>
		<title>What are Stomach Ulcers?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/29/what-are-stomach-ulcers/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/29/what-are-stomach-ulcers/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:24:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stomach ulcers: causes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stomach ulcers: symptoms and treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What are stomach uclers?]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Stomach ulcer is also known as peptic ulcer and gastric ulcer. It is a small hole in the gastrointestinal tract. Stomach ulcers are not cancerous or contagious. But, they can...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:right;margin-left:5px"       src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Stomach-ulcer.jpg" alt="Stomach ulcer" title="Stomach ulcer" width="280" height="200" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4098" /></a></p>
<p>Stomach ulcer is also known as peptic ulcer and gastric ulcer. It is a small hole in the gastrointestinal tract. Stomach ulcers are not cancerous or contagious. But, they can become malignant and cause trouble. Stomach ulcer affects millions of Americans every year. Stomach ulcer can be a symptom of another condition or disease. Bleeding due to stomach ulcer can cause anemia because of iron deficiency. </p>
<h4>Stomach Ulcer Stats </h4>
<ul>
<li>Around 20 million Americans suffer stomach ulcer at least once in their lifetime. </li>
<li>Every year, about four million Americans are affected by stomach ulcer. </li>
<li>Every year, greater than 40,000 Americans undergo surgery to treat persistent problems caused by ulcers. </li>
<li>Around 6,000 Americans succumb to complications caused by stomach ulcer every year. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Causes of Stomach Ulcers</h4>
<ul>
<li>The most common cause is the destruction of the intestinal or gastric lining in the stomach by hydrochloric acid present in digestive juices. </li>
<li>Another important cause is infection caused by Helicobacter pylori bacterium which is transmitted through water and food. </li>
<li>Other causes are psychological stress, genetic predisposition and excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid.</li>
<li>Chronic usage of anti-inflammatory medicines like aspirin can also cause stomach ulcer.  </li>
<li>Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of stomach ulcer and it can also inhibit treatment.  </li>
</ul>
<h4>Symptoms of Stomach Ulcer</h4>
<ul>
<li>There is a gnawing or burning feeling in the stomach which can last for a few hours. </li>
<li>There may be pain in the stomach after meals. This pain is relieved by taking antacids, resting and drinking milk. </li>
<li>Weight and appetite loss are additional symptoms. </li>
<li>Anemia, blood in the stool and recurrent vomiting can also indicate stomach ulcer. </li>
<li>If the patient eats more to battle discomfort, there may be weight gain. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Effects of Stomach Ulcer</h4>
<ul>
<li>It affects surrounding nerves, which become agitated and cause great pain. </li>
<li>There may also be hemorrhages due to erosion of major blood vessels. </li>
<li>Sometimes, there is a tear in the wall of the intestine and stomach, causing peritonitis. </li>
<li>Swelling or spasm in the ulcer area can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Risks of Developing Stomach Ulcers</h4>
<ul>
<li>Chronic disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, emphysema and liver disease increase the risks of getting stomach ulcer</li>
<li>Stress also raises the risks</li>
<li>Skipped meals, irregular and improper diet</li>
<li>Chronic use of corticosteroids or aspirin</li>
<li>Excessive alcohol drinking</li>
<li>Smoking</li>
<li>Hereditary history of stomach ulcers</li>
</ul>
<h4>Treatment for H. Pyloric Peptic Ulcer</h4>
<p>The doctor will prescribe medications to kill the H. pylori bacteria, reduce acid amount in the stomach and protect the lining of the stomach. </p>
<ul>
<li>To kill H. Pylori bacteria, antibiotics like Amoxcillin, Clarithromycin, Tetracycline and Metronidazole are prescribed. </li>
<li>To reduce stomach acid, common medications prescribed are Proton pump inhibitors and H2-Receptor antagonists.</li>
<li>Proton pump inhibitors include Pantoprazole (Pantoloc), Lansoprazole (Prevacid) and Omeprazole (Prilosec/Losec).</li>
<li>H2-Receptor antagonists include Nizatidine (Axid), Ranitidine (Zantac), Cimetidine (Tagamet) and Famotidine (Pepcid).</li>
<li>To protect the stomach lining, OTC antacids like Rolaids and Tums can be used. </li>
<li>If medications do not heal the peptic ulcer, surgery is considered. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Complications of Stomach Ulcers</h4>
<ul>
<li>Perforation and anemia are possible complications of untreated stomach ulcer.</li>
<li>Perforation occurs when the stomach wall is punctured because of the ulcer.</li>
<li>Anemia happens if the red blood cell count goes down, which affects the ability to carry oxygen. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Diet for Stomach Ulcers</h4>
<ul>
<li>Proper diet can reduce excessive secretion of gastric acid as well as irritation. Side effects like heartburn can also be cured. </li>
<li>Consume three snacks and three small meals in a day. Space them evenly to avoid overeating or periods of hunger. </li>
<li>Chew the food well and eat slowly. </li>
<li>Try to be relaxed when eating your meals. </li>
<li>Do not go to bed within an hour of eating a meal. </li>
<li>Avoid bedtime snacks as these can cause secretion of gastric acid at night.  </li>
<li>Reduce beverages and with foods with caffeine, as well as chocolate, tomato and citrus products if they cause discomfort. </li>
<li>Consume plenty of protein-rich foods like cheese, egg, meat and milk. </li>
<li>Take antacids one hour and three hours after meals and also before bedtime. This schedule will keep stomach acidity low and stable. </li>
<li>Do not use cream and milk as antacid therapy. </li>
<li>Caffeinated beverages like colas, tea and coffee as well decaf coffee increase the production of gastric acid. So, consume these drinks in moderation. </li>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>What is Piles?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/18/what-is-piles/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/18/what-is-piles/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:51:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=4010</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Piles is also known as hemorrhoids. This condition causes the anal veins to swell and bleed. Piles can be internal or external. Internal piles causes bleeding, while external piles does...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Piles is also known as hemorrhoids. This condition causes the anal veins to swell and bleed. Piles can be internal or external. Internal piles causes bleeding, while external piles does not bleed much, but may need surgery for removal. </p>
<h4>Symptoms of Piles</h4>
<ul>
<li>Constipation is a major symptom of piles. A constipated person strains hard to evacuate their bowels. This exerts pressure on the anal veins, causing piles. </li>
<li>Bleeding is another major symptom. Blood can be seen on the stool and inside the toilet bowl. In severe cases, the bleeding can be more. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Causes of Piles </h4>
<ul>
<li>Bad diet and an unhealthy lifestyle are leading causes. </li>
<li>A diet filled with aerated beverages, sodas and junk food can cause constipation and piles. People who shun eating vegetables and fruits, and those who drink too much coffee and tea are prone to piles. </li>
<li>A sedentary lifestyle sans physical activity affects regular bowel movement and leads to piles. </li>
<li>Stress is another factor that impairs regular bowel movement and causes piles. </li>
<li>Bad bowel habits such as straining hard to pass stools, not evacuating the bowel completely and postponing toilet visits can cause constipation and piles. </li>
<li>Pregnant women are vulnerable to this condition.</li>
</ul>
<h4>Prevention of Piles</h4>
<ul>
<li>Try to maintain regular bowel habits and evacuate them daily if possible. </li>
<li>It is important to include plenty of fiber in your daily diet. Lack of fiber in diet is a major cause of constipation and piles. So, ensure to eat foods rich in fiber such as raisin bran flakes, wheat bran flakes, apples, bananas and other fruits and vegetables. </li>
<li>Do some physical exercise regularly and keep your body active to improve your digestive system and avoid piles. </li>
<li>Drink lots of water daily to move the digested food quickly through the intestines. Water also makes the stool soft enabling it to pass out easily. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Home Remedies for Piles</h4>
<ul>
<li>Radish juice is a great home remedy for piles. Drink this juice twice a day. </li>
<li>Soak some figs in water through the night. The next morning eat these soaked figs and drink the water used for soaking. </li>
<li>Add peppercorns, ginger and rock salt to buttermilk and drink this mixture twice daily. </li>
<li>Add a spoonful of mustard seeds and some sugar to goat’s milk. Drink it in the early morning for relief. </li>
<li>Make a powder out of dried mango seeds. Mix this powder with some honey and eat it twice daily.</li>
<li>Mix a teaspoon each of lime and ginger juice, and add honey and mint leaves. Have this mixture three times each day. </li>
<li>To reduce piles pain, mash a ripe banana in some milk and eat it a few times every day. </li>
<li>Make a mixture of the juices of turnip leaves, spinach and carrots and drink it every day.</li>
<li>Add bittergourd juice to buttermilk and drink in the morning. </li>
<li>Turmeric is known to have healing and antiseptic properties. Therefore, include it in your daily diet. </li>
</ul>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/01/what-is-irritable-bowel-syndrome/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/11/01/what-is-irritable-bowel-syndrome/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 06:17:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diseases & Conditions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3871</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine slowing down or hastening food movement through it. Though no damage is caused to the large intestine, there may be discomfort, pain...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4>Irritable bowel syndrome</h4>
<p> (IBS) affects the large intestine slowing down or hastening food movement through it. Though no damage is caused to the large intestine, there may be discomfort, pain and emotional distress. IBS is a common condition and affects women more. It is also called spastic bowel, spastic colon and functional bowel syndrome. </p>
<h4>IBS Symptoms </h4>
<ul>
<li>Bloating because of gas</li>
<li>Constipation </li>
<li>Diarrhea</li>
<li>Mucus is found in the stool</li>
<li>Constipation and diarrhea alternate in the patient</li>
<li>Strong urge to defecate </li>
<li>Abdominal pain and cramping which may disappear after a bowel movement</li>
</ul>
<p>Stress may worsen the above symptoms. They may also be exacerbated if you do not consume a healthy diet or after a big meal. Certain foods may affect some people. IBS symptoms afflict some women more during menstrual periods. </p>
<h4>Bad Foods for IBS</h4>
<p>The following foods can make IBS symptoms worse:</p>
<ul>
<li>Caffeinated drinks like soda, tea or coffee</li>
<li>Barley, rye or wheat</li>
<li>Chocolate</li>
<li>Alcohol</li>
<li>Milk Products</li>
</ul>
<h4>Stress Worsens IBS</h4>
<p>As mentioned earlier, stress worsens IBS symptoms. To combat stress, try meditation, relaxation training, yoga and exercise. Take the help of a counselor also to beat your stress blues.</p>
<h4>IBS Treatment</h4>
<p>There is no treatment for IBS. To improve your symptoms, overcome stress, consume healthy foods and avoid food items that worsen your symptoms. </p>
<h4>Fiber is Good for IBS</h4>
<p>Fiber is recommended to treat IBS because it improves the functioning of the intestines. Fiber is of two types: </p>
<ol>
<li>Soluble fiber cures both constipation and diarrhea. Citrus fruits, beans and apples host soluble fiber. You can also try psyllium which is a natural vegetable soluble fiber. Psyllium supplements like Perdiem, Metamucil or Fiberall can be used daily to improve bowel functioning. </li>
<li>Insoluble fiber cures constipation by moving food faster through the digestive system and also adds bulk to stool. It is contained in many vegetables, wheat bran and whole grain breads.</li>
</ol>
<p>Increase fiber intake slowly. Initially, there may be gas and bloating when you increase fiber intake. But, these symptoms disappear as your body gets used to the extra fiber intake. Eating high fiber foods is the best method to increase fiber intake. </p>
<h4>Medications for IBS</h4>
<p>For severe symptoms, the doctor may prescribe medications. For severe pain, antispasmodic medications like dicyclomine or hyoscyamine are recommended to reduce cramping. You can also try hot baths and heating pads for comfort. For diarrhea, the best medicine is loperamide (Imodium). If severe IBS causes depression and anxiety, your doctor could prescribe antidepressants, sedatives or tranquilizers. </p>
<h4>IBS Side Effects</h4>
<p>IBS is generally not a serious condition as it doesn’t get worse over time, cause cancer or need surgery. It will not affect your lifespan. But, IBS can affect your daily life by making it difficult to go out. </p>
<h4>Tips to Control IBS</h4>
<ul>
<li>Eat a nutritious, healthy diet and avoid fatty foods. </li>
<li>Drink lots of water every day.</li>
<li>Try five or six smaller meals every day instead of three regular large ones. </li>
<li>Avoid unnecessary stress and take periodic time-outs during the day to relax yourself. </li>
<li>Avoid the usage of laxatives. They can make you dependent on them by weakening your intestines. </li>
</ul>
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		<item>
		<title>Indigestion Remedies</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/10/29/indigestion-remedies/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/10/29/indigestion-remedies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 Oct 2011 06:24:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3863</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Indigestion is a common ailment and it can cause serious effects if left untreated for a long time. Prolonged indigestion can lead to stomach ulcers, severe infection and gall bladder...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Orange-juice-indigestion-remedy-150x150.jpg" alt="Orange juice - indigestion remedy" title="Orange juice - indigestion remedy" width="150" height="150" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-3864" /></a></p>
<p>Indigestion is a common ailment and it can cause serious effects if left untreated for a long time. Prolonged indigestion can lead to stomach ulcers, severe infection and gall bladder stones. If you are suffering from indigestion after eating a hearty meal, read on to learn effective<br />
<h4>indigestion remedies</h4>
<p>.</p>
<h4>Indigestion Remedies</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Drink pine apple juice in the morning every day. This enhances digestion and regulates the bowel system. </li>
<li>Mix a spoon each of lemon juice, honey and ginger juice in some water. Drink this mixture every day to regulate digestion. This<br />
<h4>indigestion remedy</h4>
<p> has been used for ages. </li>
<li>Mix a spoonful of coriander juice in buttermilk and drink the concoction for relief. </li>
<li>Another effective remedy is to drink a glass full of orange juice after meals. </li>
<li>The following remedies can effectively treat indigestion: Chew a spoonful of aniseed after meals; Mix a spoonful of roasted cumin in water and drink the mixture; Drink herbal tea or green tea after meals. </li>
<li>Add some drops of peppermint extract to water and drink it for relief. </li>
<li>Before a hearty meal, chew on a few ginger slices after putting some salt on them. This remedy will stimulate the digestive enzymes. </li>
<li>A simple<br />
<h4>indigestion remedy</h4>
<p> is to apply ice on the stomach. </li>
<li>Add a spoonful of baking soda to water and drink the mixture for instant relief. </li>
</ul>
<h4>More Effective Indigestion Remedies</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Lemon juice is very helpful for digestion problems. Drink lemon juice before your meals. This juice aids bowels, and prevents belching, heartburn and bloating.  </li>
<li>Eat grapes to relieve indigestion. They contain dietary fiber and protein that facilitate quick digestion. Grapes also strengthen the digestive system. </li>
<li>As mentioned earlier, aniseed is a great herbal indigestion remedy. You can also use aniseed supplements that are sold as tea powders. Aniseed cures flatulence and dyspepsia. They aid digestion, ease spasms and expel gas out of the intestine. </li>
<li>Ginger tea is a common but effective indigestion remedy. Drink ginger tea after your meals to prevent nausea and heartburn. This tea neutralizes stomach acids and stimulates the secretion of digestive juices. Ginger tea can also be drunk in between meals as it stimulates appetite. </li>
</ul>
<h4>Summary</h4>
<p>Indigestion is not a problem to worry about as it can be easily cured by using the above<br />
<h4>indigestion remedies</h4>
<p>. But, if you suffer from frequent bouts of indigestion, consult a doctor as it could be a symptom of some serious condition. </p>
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		<item>
		<title>What is Diarrhea?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/10/14/what-is-diarrhea/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/10/14/what-is-diarrhea/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 Oct 2011 04:18:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diseases & Conditions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3809</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Diarrhea causes watery and loose stools. It is a common condition and generally not serious. A lot of people suffer diarrhea every year. A typical episode last for about one...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:right;margin-left:5px"                             src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Toilet-seat-150x150.jpg" alt="Toilet seat" title="Toilet seat" width="150" height="150" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-3810" /></a></p>
<p>Diarrhea causes watery and loose stools. It is a common condition and generally not serious. A lot of people suffer diarrhea every year. A typical episode last for about one or two days and can be effectively treated with over-the-counter medications. Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or other diseases affecting the large intestine can also cause diarrhea. Read on to learn more about the causes and treatments for diarrhea. </p>
<h4>Causes of Diarrhea</h4>
<p>Most commonly, diarrhea is caused by a virus that affects the gut. This infection lasts for about two days and is called “stomach flu” or “intestinal flu”. Other causes of diarrhea are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Bacterial infection which causes food poisoning </li>
<li>Infections due to other organisms</li>
<li>Consuming unhygienic or contaminated food and drinks that upset digestion</li>
<li>Allergies to some foods can also cause diarrhea</li>
<li>Certain medications</li>
<li>Intestinal ailments like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease</li>
<li>Malabsorption of certain nutrients in the diet</li>
<li>Some cancers</li>
<li>Hyperthyroidism</li>
<li>Alcohol abuse</li>
<li>Laxative abuse</li>
<li>Competitive running</li>
<li>Diabetes</li>
<li>Surgery of the digestive tract</li>
<li>In people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea may sometimes follow constipation </li>
</ul>
<h4>Symptoms of Diarrhea</h4>
<ul>
<li>Abdominal cramps or bloating </li>
<li>Loose, thin and watery stools </li>
<li>Urgent need to go to the toilet </li>
<li>Vomiting and nausea </li>
</ul>
<p>In serious cases of complicated diarrhea, the following symptoms are seen: </p>
<ul>
<li>Stool contains undigested food, mucus or blood </li>
<li>Weight loss is experienced </li>
<li>Fever</li>
</ul>
<p>Consult a doctor if diarrhea prolongs for more than a day or if vomiting stops you from replacing lost fluids by drinking liquids. </p>
<h4>Treatments for Diarrhea</h4>
<ul>
<li>For mild diarrhea, take over-the-counter medications like Kaopectate, Imodium or Pepto-Bismol.</li>
<li>Drink plenty of water.</li>
<li>You can also drink fruit juice, broth, de-caf soda, sports drinks and tea with honey.</li>
<li>Do not drink water while eating meals. Instead drink it between meals.
</li>
</ul>
<h4>Home Remedies for Diarrhea</h4>
<h4>Stay Hydrated</h4>
<p>Diarrhea makes you lose plenty of fluids, so it is important to stay hydrated. Besides, diarrhea also drains electrolytes and important minerals like potassium and sodium which are essential for the body. Replace all these by consuming OTC electrolyte formulas like Ricelyte, Rehydralyte and Pedialyte. These will replenish lost minerals and fluids. Keep your drink cool and sip it slowly to make it easy on the stomach. </p>
<h4>Get Plenty of Rest</h4>
<p>Dehydration caused by diarrhea can take a toll on your body. So, take it easy for a couple of days and avoid exertion and exercise. Stay in bed and sip a refreshing lukewarm broth at regular intervals to boost your strength.  If you have abdominal cramps, apply a heating pad on the stomach for relief. </p>
<h4>Avoid the Following Foods</h4>
<p>After an episode of diarrhea, avoid the following foods for a few days. These include dairy products like cheese and milk (except yogurt). Caffeine and sugar are also not good. Avoid high-fiber and greasy foods. Instead, eat gentle and easy foods like cooked carrots, toast, potatoes, bananas, noodles, rice, gelatin and soup. </p>
<h4>Drink Chamomile Tea</h4>
<p>Chamomile effectively treats intestinal inflammation. Use packaged tea bags or chamomile flowers to make boiling hot tea and drink three cups every day. Even the tannins present in black tea are good for diarrhea patients. </p>
<h4>Summary</h4>
<p>Generally, there is nothing to worry about diarrhea. It can be easily treated by following the above treatments and home remedies. But, if the symptoms are serious, then consult a doctor immediately.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>How to Prevent Constipation</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/21/how-to-prevent-constipation/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/21/how-to-prevent-constipation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2011 02:42:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3718</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You suffer from constipation if you evacuate your bowels less than three times in a week. When you sit on the throne, it may take a long time for the...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:right;margin-left:5px"                   src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Toilet-seat-150x150.jpg" alt="" title="Toilet seat" width="150" height="150" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-3719" /></a></p>
<p>You suffer from constipation if you evacuate your bowels less than three times in a week. When you sit on the throne, it may take a long time for the stools to pass out. The stools will be hard and tinged with blood. Thus, constipation can be a major trouble as vouched by those who have suffered this condition. Read on and learn useful tips on<br />
<h4>how to prevent constipation.</h4>
<h4>Drink Lots of Water</h4>
<p>Dehydration is a major cause of constipation. In a dehydrated person, waste matter moves very slowly through the intestines. Therefore, it is essential to drink about eight glasses of water every day to<br />
<h4>prevent constipation</h4>
<p>. Water also flushes out toxins from the body and when you drink lots of it, you visit the restroom frequently, which is good exercise by itself. </p>
<h4>Eat a Fiber-rich Diet</h4>
<p>Your daily diet should be high in fiber. This important element promotes healthy digestion and adds bulk to the stools. This enables the stools to pass easily through the intestines. Whole grains, vegetables and fruits are rich in fiber. For breakfast, you can eat a high-fiber cereal like all-bran or raisin bran wheat flakes immersed in milk. These cereals are not only tasty, but help you consume the minimum daily requirement of 25 grams of fiber.  </p>
<h4>Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables Daily</h4>
<p>Diet experts advocate eating five portions of vegetables or fruits every day. You should eat a variety of these nutritious natural foods as each fruit and vegetable hosts a different kind of fiber. You can eat canned and dried fruits too. Green leafy vegetables, seeds and legumes like lentils and beans are rich in fiber and magnesium which<br />
<h4>prevent constipation.</h4>
<h4>Avoid Dehydration</h4>
<p>Drinks like tea, coffee, soda and alcohol can cause dehydration. Therefore, avoid them completely or consume them in moderation. You can instead try de-caffeinated coffee. Also limit your intake of refined processed foods, cheese, eggs and meat. </p>
<h4>Exercise Regularly</h4>
<p>A sedentary lifestyle can cause constipation. Many people who are bed-ridden due to injury or ailment often suffer from constipation because of their inactivity. Such persons can take fiber supplements to enable regular bowel movements. To prevent constipation, exercise regularly. A few yoga poses can specifically aid digestion and enable regular evacuation of bowels. Exercise raises nitric oxide levels, which<br />
<h4>prevents constipation</h4>
<p> and hypertension. </p>
<h4>Clean Your Colon</h4>
<p>You can use natural remedies like Colon Sweep to clean your colon regularly. Natural products have ingredients like psyllium husks that cleanse the colon and remove built-up wastes caused by constipation. Natural remedies like Natural moves relax the intestines, ease tension and stress, and regulate bowel movements. But, consult your doctor before you use any of these products. </p>
<h4>Never Pig Out</h4>
<p>Resist the urge to overeat no matter how hungry you are or because the food tastes real good. It is easier to digest smaller meals, which are better for gastro-intestinal health. Some diet experts advise eating five smaller meals a day, rather than the regular three large ones. Don’t eat late at night, because when you sleep your body metabolism slows down which affects quick digestion. </p>
<h4>Summary</h4>
<p>Constipation is a condition which is better prevented than cured. The above tips will help you<br />
<h4>prevent constipation</h4>
<p> and pass stools easily at regular intervals. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>What are Gas Remedies?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/08/what-are-gas-remedies/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/09/08/what-are-gas-remedies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Sep 2011 00:06:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=3641</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Stomach gas and the consequent bloating are annoying but common conditions in the West. The reasons for this condition are poor diet and bad digestion. In fact, surveys reveal that...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:right;margin-left:5px"                              src="http://www.drgranny.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Stomach.jpg" alt="" title="Stomach" width="199" height="300" class="alignright size-full wp-image-3642" /></a></p>
<p>Stomach gas and the consequent bloating are annoying but common conditions in the West. The reasons for this condition are poor diet and bad digestion. In fact, surveys reveal that some people expel gas at least 14 times a day. Stomach gas can be prevented with a sensible diet and natural<br />
<h4>gas remedies</h4>
<p> can treat a current condition.  </p>
<h4>Top Gas Remedies</h4>
<h4>Fennel Seeds</h4>
<p>You can either chew them or make hot tea with the seeds. Fennel, dill and anise seeds relax digestive muscles and let through trapped gas. You will also get fresher breath by chewing fennel seeds. </p>
<h4>Ginger</h4>
<p>Eat ginger root or drink tea made from it to cure gas. Add fresh and fried ginger to your meals. To get relief from gas, eat a spoonful of grated ginger prior to starting a meal. </p>
<h4>Caraway Seeds</h4>
<p>Add these seeds to gas-causing foods to prevent bloating. Caraway seeds cure stomach cramping, indigestion and gas and aid proper digestion. </p>
<h4>Parsley</h4>
<p>Parsley is a recommended<br />
<h4>gas remedy</h4>
<p> and you can take it either fresh or dried. Add this herb to your meals to prevent bloating and gas. </p>
<h4>Colon Cleanse</h4>
<p>Cleanse your colon often to improve its health and also get gas relief. </p>
<h4>Probiotics</h4>
<p>Take probiotic supplements or eat foods which have probiotics like pineapples to cure gas symptoms. Probiotics replenish useful bacteria in the intestine and keep the colon in good health. </p>
<h4>Garlic</h4>
<p>Garlic is a great<br />
<h4>gas remedy</h4>
<p>. Fresh garlic stimulates digestion, but can spoil your breath. So, after eating garlic, chew fennel or parsley seeds to make your breath fresh. </p>
<h4>Dandelion Tea</h4>
<p>Dandelion is a common weed which has many health benefits including gas relief. Drink dandelion tea or add the dried spice to meals.</p>
<h4>Hot Water</h4>
<p>This is perhaps the simplest<br />
<h4>gas remedy</h4>
<p>. Drink half cup of hot water to cure gas and bloating,</p>
<h4>Peppermint Oil</h4>
<p>Mix two or three drops of this oil in half cup of cool water. Drink this mixture two times every day. </p>
<h4>Tips to Prevent Gas</h4>
<ul>
<li>Bloating, gas and indigestion are often caused by foods with refined sugar, and processed, spicy and fried foods. Common foods that trigger bloating and gas include peaches, prunes, pears, dairy products, potatoes, oats, corn, apples, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, breads and most beans.</li>
<li>Carbonated drinks and soda also produce gas.</li>
<li>Potatoes and oats have high carb content which lead to gas and bloating.</li>
<li>To relieve gas symptoms, eat the following foods which produce negligible levels of gas: yogurt, peanut butter, eggs, meat, hard cheese, grapes, citrus, bananas and rice.</li>
<li>Eat more smaller meals rather than three large meals in a day.</li>
<li>Avoid foods with large amounts of essential and monosaturated fats. </li>
<li>Chew your food steadily and slowly. Do not gulp down or swallow your meals. Proper mastication leads to better digestion.</li>
<li>Exercise regularly to keep the stomach muscles in top shape. Regular bowel habits prevent accumulation of gas-causing bacteria and prevent flatulence.</li>
<li>There are many yoga poses which can be done first thing in the morning to prevent digestive problems. Yoga poses can relieve flatulence, bloating, abdominal discomfort and excess gas. For example, the wind relieving pose is most useful to get rid of stomach gas early in the morning.</li>
</ul>
<h4>Summary</h4>
<p>We hope our simple<br />
<h4>gas remedies</h4>
<p> help you overcome stomach gas, bloating and flatulence problems. Adopt the above tips to prevent gas and flatulence, and the resulting public embarrassment. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>How to Treat Severe Constipation?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/03/12/how-to-treat-severe-constipation/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/03/12/how-to-treat-severe-constipation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 12 Mar 2011 05:29:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=2902</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Constipation is an uncomfortable digestive disorder that is characterized by difficulty in defecating. Although it may sometimes may lead to serious complications such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures and may...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Constipation is an uncomfortable digestive disorder that is characterized by difficulty in defecating. Although it may sometimes may lead to serious complications such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures and may be a symptom of a severe disorder, it is very common and experienced by nearly 4 million Americans every year. Symptoms of constipation include unusual straining or difficulty while defecating, incomplete bowel evacuation and decrease in frequency of bowel movements. If you are worried on<br />
<h4>how to treat severe constipation</h4>
<p>, here are some remedies.</p>
<h4>How to Treat Severe Constipation?</h4>
<p>Following are some natural remedies to treat chronic constipation:</p>
<h4>Drink plenty of water:</h4>
<p> Dehydration is the primary cause of constipation. If body lacks fluid content, it may become difficult to the intestines to move waste material in the bowels. Water deficiency can also make stools dry and hard. Hence, drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated and for easing the bowel movement.</p>
<h4>Mulberry Juice:</h4>
<p> This contains vitamins and minerals that aid in assimilation of nutrients and stimulating digestion. If you drink mulberry juice regularly, it helps in solving the problems associated with bowel movements.</p>
<h4>Fiber Diet:</h4>
<p> Consuming plenty of fiber rich foods help in passing stools with ease. One must eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains for treating chronic constipation. Grapes, papaya and guava are the fruits that are rich in fibers to cure constipation. Leafy vegetables and bananas are considered as the ideal foods to relief from constipation and ease bowel movement. Do not eat bananas because it worsens the condition. </p>
<h4>Prunes:</h4>
<p> This is a best remedy to get immediate relief from constipation. They soften the hard stools and make them pass easily. Prune juice also helps in treating severe constipation cases.</p>
<h4>Lemon Juice:</h4>
<p> Extract fresh lemon juice and mix it in warm water and drink thrice a day for treating constipation. It aids in easing curing severe constipation and passing of hard stools. </p>
<h4>Castor oil and Milk:</h4>
<p> Add two tablespoons of castor oil to a glass of warm water and drink it before sleeping. This helps in solving the constipation problem in the morning.</p>
<h4>Milk and honey: </h4>
<p>This is another best remedy to treat constipation. Combine milk and honey and drink it. One must add one teaspoon of honey to one glass of warm milk and consume it two times a day. This aids in curing severe constipation.</p>
<h4>Apple Juice:</h4>
<p> Another effective remedy is to drink apple juice. This is another effective remedy to kick of the constipation problem. One must mix equal amounts of pear juice and apple juice once before going to bed and once in the morning. Pear and apple juices are rich in minerals, vitamins, fiber and other important chemicals that ease constipation problem.</p>
<h4>Dates: </h4>
<p>Soak dates in a half cup of water overnight and mash them in the morning. Eat the pulp at least 4 times a day to get relief from constipation. </p>
<p>These are some remedies<br />
<h4> to treat severe constipation</h4>
<p>. These natural remedies can help you in treating the condition without any adverse effects. </p>
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		<title>What is Appendicitis?</title>
		<link>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/02/28/what-is-appendicitis/</link>
		<comments>http://www.drgranny.com/2011/02/28/what-is-appendicitis/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Feb 2011 05:43:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[digestive system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.drgranny.com/?p=2599</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Appendicitis is a condition which develops due to the infection and swelling in the appendix of an individual. Appendix is located lower right side of the abdomen and is a...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Appendicitis is a condition which develops due to the infection and swelling in the appendix of an individual. Appendix is located lower right side of the abdomen and is a pouch attached to the large intestine. Internal portion of appendix is called appendiceal lumen. The mucus secreted by appendix moves from appendiceal lumen to large intestine. In this medical condition, lumen may get obstructed and may get filled with the mucus and swells. The major symptom of appendicitis is pain in the abdominal area, that moves to right side. Mostly appendix is removed either by performing laparoscopy or laparotomy. </p>
<h4>What Causes Appendicitis?</h4>
<p>Appendicitis develops due to the blockage which occurs in the appendix, called appendiceal lumen. The viral or bacterial infections present in digestive tract may cause swelling of lymph nodes, that squeezes the appendix and leads to obstruction. This blockage results in increased pressure, appendix inflammation and impaired blood flow. Rarely, genetic factors and traumatic injury to abdomen can result in appendicitis. If this condition is left untreated, it would result in rupture in appendix, triggering major complications. </p>
<h4>What are the Symptoms of Appendicitis?</h4>
<p>Following are some of the symptoms of appendicitis:</p>
<ul>
<li>Feeling that a bowel movement gives relief from the discomfort</li>
<li>Diarrhea</li>
<li>Indigestion</li>
<li>Pain in the center of the abdomen</li>
<li>Discomfort feeling in abdomen</li>
<li>Swelling in the abdomen</li>
<li>Low fever, that begins after other symptoms</li>
<li>Inability to pass gas</li>
<li>Diarrhea or constipation</li>
<li>Vomiting</li>
<li>Nausea</li>
<li>Loss of appetite</li>
<li>Pain in abdomen, initially around the navel and later in the lower right region</li>
</ul>
<p>The treatment for appendicitis includes a surgical removal of the inflamed appendix. This can be done either as an open surgery or as a laparoscopic one, based on the severity of the condition of appendicitis. Generally, removal of appendix with a laparoscopic surgery aids in healing the wound without any scarring and allows faster recovery as well. </p>
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