Vitamin D Is Crucial For Osteoporosis Prevention

By admin | Published: September 28, 2010

A glass of milk a day will keep osteoporosis away? While it will certainly help, those who want to be very proactive about preventing this disease will find they need much more than calcium. Other minerals and vitamins are also required to help the body build strong, healthy bones and prevent the loss of mass. Vitamin D is one of the most important.

Osteoporosis And Its Symptoms

Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease that is characterized by the gradual loss of bone mass. Diagnosed in millions of people in the United States alone, this disease can lead to severely weakened bones and eventual fractures and breaks if it is left unchecked. There are things people can do to prevent the bone loss associated with osteoporosis and to slow the disease’s progression if it is already established.

While it is considered a silent disease until the first serious break occurs, osteoporosis does have a number of risk factors. Some of the biggest indicators that this disease might be a concern include:

  • Being female – Men can get this disease, but it isn’t quite as common.
  • Age – Bone loss can start in the 30s, but the serious signs of this disease tend to appear later in life. Women in their 60s are much more likely to show visible signs of bone loss.
  • Diet – A diet that is low in bone-building vitamins and minerals throughout life lays the groundwork for the loss of bone mass later.
  • Smoking – Smokers are more likely to face issues related to bone mass loss.
  • Family history – A history of osteoporosis in a family is a good indicator of potential problems for an individual down the road.

The symptoms of osteoporosis are unnoticeable in most cases until the loss of mass leads to breaks and fractures. Sufferers are likely to face compression fractures in their backs and also may feel pain as a result of breaks.

Vitamin D’s Role

It is no secret that calcium is an essential mineral for the growth and maintenance of strong, healthy teeth and bones. Calcium, however, isn’t readily accepted by the body without assistance from other minerals and vitamins. Vitamin D happens to be one of the most important sources to aid with the absorption of calcium. When vitamin D levels in the body are low, calcium absorption can go done. This can lead to a thinning of bones and will promote the development of osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.

Sources Of Vitamin D

Unlike many other vitamins, vitamin D is not found in a large variety of foods. It is, however, available in sunlight. Other sources include vitamin D fortified milk and other dairy products, cod liver oil, egg yolks, beef liver and fortified cereals.

Promoting Bone Health

There are a number of things people can do to prevent the development of osteoporosis and to slow bone loss if it’s begun. Some of the best steps to take include:

  • Eating right – A diet that is rich in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, phosphorous, manganese and other essential nutrients is vital for bone health.
  • Exercising – Exercise, especially weight-bearing exercise, has been linked to bone development and growth. Making sure to stay active is vital.
  • Using supplements – If obtaining all of the necessary vitamins and minerals through diet is proving difficult, supplements can provide an extra boost.

While calcium is essential for bone health, it isn’t the only thing those prone to osteoporosis should be concerned about. Vitamin D is also necessary to keep this disease out of the picture.

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Treating And Preventing Gallstones With Vegetables

By admin | Published: September 26, 2010

Treating gallstones with invasive medical procedures isn’t always the only option available. When a natural route for prevention and treatment makes more sense, vegetables can provide the ideal solution. Medical research has shown the consumption of vegetables can play a significant role in the development of stones, the frequency of attacks and even the removal of stones.

What Are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hard deposits that form within the gallbladder. They are composed of hardened digestive fluids. Individual stones can range in size from nearly microscopic to gumball size or beyond. While not all gallstones cause pain in sufferers many do. The symptoms include:

  • Intense pain in the abdomen on the upper right side or in the center
  • Back pain, especially between the shoulder blades
  • Pain in the right shoulder

Gallstones can produce sudden, often intense, episodes of pain that may subside after a few minutes or few hours. Called gallbladder attacks, these sudden episodes often lead people into surgical procedures that involve the removal of the entire gallbladder. This pear-shaped organ stores bile that is used during the digestive process.

What Causes Gallstones?

Although doctors and researchers do not have a definitive cause for gallstones, there are several potential causes, including:

  • Cholesterol – Bile itself is noted for its ability to dissolve cholesterol that is produced in the liver. Sometimes, however, the liver may excrete more cholesterol than the gallbladder can handle. When this happens, the cholesterol can crystallize and turn into stones.
  • Bilirubin – This chemical is produced by the body to break down red blood cells. If the liver makes too much of this substance, it can produce stones in the gallbladder.
  • An improperly functioning gallbladder – If the gallbladder doesn’t empty as it should, bile can concentrate and increase the likelihood of gallstones forming.

Gallstone Risks

There are a variety of risk factors for the development of gallstones. Women are much more likely than men to develop this condition. Women who are pregnant or are age 60 and older are also more likely to develop stones than others. Other risk factors include obesity, high-fat diets, high-cholesterol diets, improper fiber intake, diabetes and more. A family history of gallstones may also indicate a genetic link.

How Vegetables Help

A large body of research has shown a direct connection between vegetable consumption and the formation of gallstones. A study in Great Britain showed that women who eat only vegetables are half as likely as their meat-eating counterparts to develop stones. Likewise, a study conducted by Harvard University, revealed that women with high vegetable intakes were much less likely to develop problems than women who didn’t consume many vegetables.

While more study is required to say exactly why vegetables make a difference, some speculation has occurred. Many researchers believe that vegetable protein bocks the creation of gallstones by reducing the amount of cholesterol in bile. A Philadelphia study also showed that soy protein can dissolve gallstones in hamsters.

The Best Foods To Consider

Preventing gallstones through diet does call for the consumption of certain vegetables, fruits and nuts. Researchers have found such things as beans, lentils, peas and lima beans are especially effective. Nuts and oranges have also been shown to make a difference.

Accepting gallstones as a given is not always necessary. When vegetable intake is increased, women can see a reduction in their chances of developing painful stones. They might even provide a way to dissolve stones and prevent attacks.

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Chili Peppers Deliver A Natural High

By admin | Published: September 16, 2010

Fighting mild depression or temporary dips in mood with harsh chemical agents isn’t always the desired route to take. When a more natural alternative is desired, people with low mood swings might just get a high out of a hot solution. Chili peppers contain an ingredient that has been known to elevate moods for the better.

Why Pursue A Natural Path?

Opting for food-based solutions to mild depression and other mood-altering conditions is often preferred by individuals because of the potential side effects of medicinal treatments. While severe, clinical depression may call for medical intervention, minor dips in mood and mild cases of depression can often be self-treated.

The potential side effects of antidepressants are often enough to have people seeking out alternatives. While side effects don’t present for everyone, some of the more common issues include:

  • Insomnia
  • Drowsiness
  • Weight gain
  • Sexual dysfunction

The Secret Ingredient In Peppers

Chili peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin. This chemical is what makes peppers hot. The amount of capsaicin varies based on the pepper type. A very hot pepper will have a higher concentration of this chemical versus a mild pepper. Jalapeno peppers, for example, have a lower concentration of the chemical than say habanero peppers, which are considered among the hottest peppers.

What Capsaicin Does

Capsaicin itself doesn’t necessarily combat the effects of depression. This chemical, however, is known to release endorphins in the body. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killers and stress busters. Produced in the pituitary gland, this natural compound in the body is considered a powerful mood elevator. Endorphins, in fact, are considered an opiate-like substance. They are known for:

  • Producing a positive state
  • Decreasing pain
  • Reducing stress

Working Peppers Into The Diet

If peppers are not a staple in everyday diet, coming up with ways to work them in can provide an interesting change in dietary habits. In many cases, the change can actually be much healthier, too. Ethnic cuisines like Thai, Mexican and some Caribbean dishes are known for their use of hot peppers. Adding hot pepper sauce to standard food items can also make a difference.

Other Ways To Trigger Endorphins

There are a number of other ways to trigger natural endorphin release and elevate the mood. Some of the options that can assist if the chili pepper solution is just too hot include:

  • Exercise – The term “runner’s high” comes from the endorphin release that athletes get after working out for a time.
  • Laughter – As they say, this is the best medicine.
  • Massage and acupuncture – Both of these practices are known to trigger a release of endorphins in the body.
  • Sex – Endorphins are typically released along with orgasm.
  • Dark chocolate – This food is known to provide a temporary up, as well.

Other Mood Altering Foods

While enjoying an endorphin rush can provide a much-needed lift, there are other options to treat mood dips naturally. Garlic, fatty fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid found in fruits, beans and vegetables and St. John’s wort have all been shown to have a positive effect on mood.

Pharmaceutical treatments are not the only option for treating mild depression. When a natural route is desired (foods as medicine), chili peppers provide a hot solution that can result in a temporary boost to mood. Remember that serious cases of depression might call for medical intervention, but mild problems might only require a natural remedy.

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Prevent Osteoporosis With Pineapples

By admin | Published: September 2, 2010

Preventing the potentially crippling effects of osteoporosis is a concern for millions of people the world over. When it’s time to take a proactive stance toward prevention, reaching for some pineapple slices might provide a solution. This tropical fruit contains the trace element manganese, which has been strongly linked to the disease.

A Look At Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to a thinning of the bones. If left unchecked, bone thinning can progress to a point where fractures and breaks are common. The condition tends to be a silent one until complications arise.

Symptoms of the disease include:

  • Undiagnosed pain in the bones
  • A loss in height
  • Sudden severe pain, especially in the back
  • Compression fractures in the back

Risk Factors

There are a variety of risk factors for this disease. Some of the more common ones include:

  • Being female – Men can get the disease, but It is much more common in women
  • Age – Bone loss is more common after the age of 30
  • Smoking
  • Improper calcium and vitamin D consumption
  • Leading a sedentary lifestyle
  • Ethnicity – Asian and Caucasian women are more likely to develop osteoporosis
  • Family history
  • Bone and body structure – People who are thin and petite are more likely to develop this condition.

The Pineapple Connection

Pineapples contain a fair amount of manganese. This trace element is considered essential for the absorption of calcium in the body. Low levels of this substance have been linked to the development of osteoporosis. While an abundance of manganese isn’t required on a daily basis, getting enough can be essential for ensuring proper bone health and maintenance. Other benefits of this substance include support immune system health, blood sugar balancing and cellular health.

While pineapples are an excellent source of manganese, they are not the only option. Other potential sources to include in diet are:

  • Whole grains
  • Legumes
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Wheat germ

Eating For Bone Health

The best protection against osteoporosis is a lifelong commitment to building and maintaining strong bones. On the dietary front, this means eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. Some of the things that are important to consider include:

  • Calcium – This mineral is essential for proper bone growth and maintenance. Roughly 1,500 milligrams a day should be consumed by people over the age of 50. Food-based intake should occur throughout the day for better absorption and use by the body. Calcium is found in dairy products, fortified cereals, broccoli, kale, turnip greens, salmon and a variety of other foods.
  • Vitamin D – This vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium by the body. It is found in such foods as fish, egg yolk and liver.
  • Phosphorous – This is a mineral that is also essential for the production of healthy teeth and bones. It is found in milk and meat proteins. Some whole grains also contain this mineral.

Overall, it is essential to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other healthful foods to help prevent osteoporosis or stave off its effects if bone loss has already begun. Calcium supplements with vitamin D added can be quite useful, as well.

Preventing osteoporosis or warding off its more crippling effects is possible when diet and exercise combine to help build healthier, stronger bones. Pineapples can add an extra bit of protection when it’s needed the most.

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Advice For Adding Bran And Other Fibers To The Diet

By admin | Published: August 29, 2010

If you’re like a lot of people, regularity with digestion is a concern. You know eating right is essential for preventing constipation and other uncomfortable complaints. Still, adding bran and other fibers to the diet can be a difficult balancing act. Eat too little and the system can back up. Eat too much and the effects are largely the same.

It is possible to work the right amount of bran and other fibers into the diet without going overboard. It’s just a good idea to make sure a variety of fibers are consumed and that other steps are taken to help fiber do its job better.

What Is Bran?

Bran is found in grain cereals. It’s the hard layer that covers the outside of the grain. Not only does bran contain a fair amount of nutritional value, it is also an essential fiber that can prevent and ease digestive conditions like constipation.

Bran is traditionally removed from grains like wheat when they are highly processed. White flour, for example, is lacking in bran.

Why Is Bran Important?

Bran and dietary fibers in general are a very important part of diet for a number of reasons. Not only does fiber ease digestive conditions and regulate bowel movements, but it can also have other positive health effects including:

  • Assisting with weight loss by making the body feel fuller faster
  • Lowering cholesterol for better heart health
  • Reducing the risk of certain cancers like colon cancer

Sources Of Bran

Bran that is useful not only for nutritional value, but also digestion is found naturally in a variety of grain cereals. Some of the more common sources of bran include:

  • Wheat
  • Rice
  • Corn
  • Oats
  • Barley
  • Millet

Depending on the source of the bran, the fiber involved may be insoluble or soluble. Both types are important for preventing health conditions. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to make sure multiple sources of bran are considered. Oats and rice bran, for example, are soluble fiber and can assist in lowering cholesterol. Wheat bran is a source of insoluble fiber and helps with gastrointestinal issues.

Other Fiber Sources To Consider

Bran is not the only beneficial source of dietary fiber. Other foods can also help a person obtain the right amount of fiber in their daily diet. The options include beans, peas, citrus fruits, cauliflower, turnips, carrots and strawberries.

Consuming The Right Amount

It is recommended that adults consume between 20 to 35 grams of fiber a day to maintain health and keep digestive complaints at bay. Unfortunately, most people get only half the recommended amount a day.

There are ways to increase bran and other fibers in the diet easily. They include:

  • Replacing processed grains from the diet with whole grains.
  • Adding high-fiber snacks to the diet, such as granola bars, carrots and celery.
  • Trying to ensure that at least five to nine servings of vegetables and fruits are consumed in a day.
  • Taking supplements that offer extra boosts of fiber.

A Warning About Consuming Too Much

While it is important to get plenty of high-fiber foods worked into the diet, overuse can also cause digestive problems. To avoid concerns with bran and other rich fibers make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. This can help fiber work more effectively in the diet and is also useful for overall health.

Bran is an important to consider when digestive regularity is a concern. Just choose a variety of sources and do consider other fibers, as well. Proceed with moderation when adding fiber to the diet and drink plenty of fluids to gain the best results.

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Eating Your Way To Better Breathing

By admin | Published: August 21, 2010

For people with allergies, cold and other sinus and lung concerns, breathing can be quite the chore. When the nasal passages are blocked with mucus and the lungs are full of phlegm, misery doesn’t begin to describe the feeling.

While it’s tempting to reach for allergy and sinus medications, these pharmaceuticals can often cause drowsiness and other have unpleasant side effects. There is a better way. Mother nature provides a number of alternatives to medications that can help drain the airways and promote better breathing.

If infections are the cause of sinus and lung clogging, foods can also provide assistance. There are a variety of foods that are known for boosting immune function and helping the body better position itself to fight infection.

How Food Helps

There are a variety of foods that are known to promote draining of the sinuses and clearing of the lungs. They generally help by thinning out mucus so it is easier to drain through the body. This happens when foods promote a watering down of the mucus, which leads to a reduction of blockages.

Some foods are known to promote better blood flow, which can actually assist by providing a quicker resolution of infection.

There are also foods that can reduce the length of allergic reactions and even those known to act as natural antibiotics.

Foods That Make A Difference

There are a variety of foods that can be very beneficial for thinning mucus or simply aiding in its removal. Some of the more effective options for fighting breathing concerns related to blockages include:

  • Hot peppers – Chili peppers, habanero and even plain black pepper can promote a thinning of mucus, which leads to better drainage of the nasal passages and sinuses. Some really hot peppers can also promote better blood circulation and the release of endorphins. Circulation will assist with the removal of infections. Endorphins can blunt the pain associated with sinus infections.
  • Garlic – This spice is great for clearing the sinuses by helping thin mucus. It is also known to be a strong antibiotic and antiviral food. This means it can help the body battle sinus conditions that are related to infection.
  • Onions – This vegetables is notorious for making the eyes water, but it may also promote a watering down of mucus. This can help clear passages and lead to better breathing.
  • Pineapples – This tropical fruit contains bromelian, which is an enzyme that fights infection and also helps break down mucus in the system.
  • Citrus fruits and other sources of vitamin C – Vitamin C is known to boost immune function and reduce the impacts of allergic reactions. This makes it a good tool to use in fighting the effects of clogged sinuses and lungs.
  • Hot fluids – Hot tea, soup and other steaming liquids can assist in watering down mucus. To promote drainage, make sure to consume plenty of fluids both hot and cold when sinuses are backed up.
  • Mint – Peppermint, spearmint and other strong smelling herbs like eucalyptus can promote thinning of the mucus in the system and drainage. All three can be consumed in tea form.

Sinus backups can cause a tremendous amount of pain and pressure. When it’s time to work the mucus out of the system, the right foods can get the job done. In many cases, they can provide relief while helping users avoid medications to see results.

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Foods That Rev Up Immunities

By admin | Published: August 13, 2010

The connection between food and the proper functioning of the immune system has long been known. The anecdotal evidence abounds. People who consume well balanced diets rich in vitamins and minerals tend to ward off illnesses much more readily than their counterparts who nosh on junk food. Still, many people are a little fuzzy on just what foods are the best to consume to bolster immunities. Others are unclear just how certain vitamins and mineral help.

Think of a body like an engine and the reason why healthy foods boost immunities will become clear. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats and certain dairy products are a lot like a premium gasoline. They fuel the body without junking it up with unnecessary additives. Fatty, fried foods, processed foods and overly sugary foods are more like watered down gasoline. They provide some energy, but they junk up the system in the process.

In general, a diet that is well-rounded and includes plenty of fruits and vegetables will provide the boost the immune system needs to effectively fight common and some not-so-common ailments. There are some foods, in particular, that have proven themselves friends of the immune system.

So, which foods are especially good for immune system health? Here are some of the top options for fueling immunities and feeding the body right:

  • Foods rich in vitamin C – This vitamin is considered one of the most powerful immune system boosters available. Found in fruits, vegetables and some foods that are fortified with the vitamin, this substance is known to help fight infections, viruses and more. One of the ways in which vitamin C works is by promoting the production of interferon. This antibody is known for blocking viruses and infections from getting into cells. Vitamin C is also essential for lowering the risk of heart disease, colon cancer, breast cancer and more.
  • Vitamin E rich foods – Vitamin E is found in some foods, but is more easily attained in supplemental form. This is especially so if large daily doses are desired. This vitamin is known to enhance the production of killer cells that attack cancer and germs.
  • Carotenoids – Found naturally in foods like carrots, beta carotene is known to increase the number of cells dedicated to fighting germs and other undesirables. This antioxidant helps reduce the risk of heart disease, fights cancer and generally bolsters immunities.
  • Bioflavenoids – Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are generally also rich in this natural antioxidant. Bioflavenoids are essential for protecting cells from environmental damage and germs, as well.
  • Zinc – This mineral is well known for speeding along the course of colds and helping increase the number of disease-fighting T-cells in the system. It is vital at all stages of life, but can provide a particular boost for aging immune systems. Zinc is found naturally in legumes, oysters, beef and some shell fish.
  • Garlic – This common, everyday spice is known to increase immune function by promoting the growth of white cells. These are the body’s natural germ fighters. Garlic is also known to have antifungal properties and can have an antioxidant effect that wards off some types of cancer.

There are a variety of other foods that can help fine tune the immune system. To get the most out of diet, make sure to eat a balanced selection of foods on a daily basis. Fruits, vegetables and certain spices are especially important for bolstering natural immunities.

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Garlic: A Powerful Tool In The Cancer Battle

By admin | Published: August 7, 2010

In the battle against cancer, food has long been known to play a pivotal role. Eat the right foods and cancer might be preventable. Consume poor choices and the risk for developing this potentially fatal disease and many others goes up. What about spices? Do they also play a role? When it comes to garlic, research is revealing that at least this particular spice might just play a very big role in prevention and even treatment of cancer.

What Is Garlic?

Garlic is a spicy, pungent plant that is closely related to onions and leeks. Its cloves are used in cooking in cultures found almost all over the world. Famed for its distinct flavor, this spice has been also used food medicine for thousands of years. Its properties are said to help treat such conditions as fungal and bacterial infections, high cholesterol, diabetes, intestinal worms, digestive disorders, thrush and more.

Garlic And Cancer

The curative and preventative properties found in garlic have been long known. In recent years, it has been found that this particular food can also help in the fight against cancer.

Scientific studies are showing that garlic may in fact be a powerful ally in the battle against cancer. A German study, for example, has found that the compounds in garlic are toxic to malignant cancer cells. This food seems to have the ability to actually kill cancer cells in much the same way as chemotherapy drugs. The German study also found that ajoene, a compound in garlic, is much more likely to kill malignant cells and than normal ones.

A study conducted at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine also revealed that garlic acts as a biological response modifier. This food product seems to boost anticancer activity in the immune system, especially in relation to T-lymphocytes and macrophages, which are known to destroy cancer cells.

The antibiotic effect produced by garlic may also assist with other forms of cancer. It is believed that garlic can help prevent stomach and colon cancers by attacking the bacteria that has been linked with the formation of these cancers.

Using Garlic As A Preventative And Cure

While researchers admit much more study must be done on garlic’s potential role in preventing and treating cancer, it’s still more than possible to work this food into everyday life. Garlic is a highly common ingredient in dishes from almost every continent on the planet. It is also possible to purchase garlic supplements for a higher concentration of this important substance. It is important to note, however, that garlic should not be used in place of medical treatments when cancer is already present. It might prove to be a powerful booster as treatments are ongoing, however.

Enjoying A Cancer Fighting Diet

The links between food and cancer prevention and even treatment are hard to deny. For those who wish to prevent or help treat this condition, a basic, healthy diet is often recommended. This means eating a good combination of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat meats and low-fat dairy. Staying away from processed foods, dishes that are high in sodium and low in fiber can also prove to be important in the fight against cancer.

When cancer prevention and even treatment options are desired, garlic can play an important role. This common spice is proving its cancer-fighting abilities in research and may just hold a key to slowing and stopping the growth of this disease.

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Clear Liquids Aren’t The Best Diarrhea Cure

By admin | Published: July 28, 2010

While it’s a seemingly benign symptom associated with a number of conditions, acute diarrhea can be dangerous. As the body loses fluids and nutrients through watery, frequent stools, energy and ability to fight illness can be lost. Replacing lost minerals and fluids is essential for recovery.

It used to be thought that clear liquids were the best option for treating the dehydration that often accompanies diarrhea. Water, broth, tea and some fruit drinks were typically suggested to rehydrate the body and add some fuel to the system. The times have changed and so has the school of thought surrounding diarrhea treatment.

What’s Wrong With Clear Liquids?

Although clear liquids can be beneficial for rehydrating the body, they do not typically replenish lost electrolytes and other minerals zapped during a run-in with diarrhea. This leaves the body weak and vulnerable.

There are other potential problems associated with the old fashion broth-and-water diet suggested for people with diarrhea. They include:

  • Salt content – Broth tends to have too much salt, which can add to dehydration concerns. Tea and water on the other hand might not have enough. Iodized salt in moderation is required by the body for proper functioning.
  • Sugar content – Many of the drinks given to people with diarrhea contain a large amount of sugar. Fruit juices, for example, can promote vomiting and exacerbate dehydration.

The Better Choices

When diarrhea is a problem, replacing lost fluids and minerals is a must. Since diarrhea is often caused by infection, these things are simply required to keep the body strong enough to fight off the underlying concern. There are certain foods and liquids that can assist with replenishing fluids and minerals without necessarily increasing the frequency of diarrhea. They include:

  • Low sugar electrolyte drinks – There are special drinks for infants, for example, that are meant to add fluids and electrolytes to the system. These can be essential for putting the body back into the right balance. When electrolytes – potassium and sodium – are low, the heart doesn’t function as it should. Electrolytes are used to create the electrical currents that make the heart pump properly.
  • Starchy fluids – Rather than reach for clear broths, it’s often suggested that starchy fluids that offer more nutrients are better. The options here include thick soups that contain potatoes, corn, wheat or rice. Coconut juice and chicken noodle soup – not broth – can also be useful.
  • Soft foods – Tapioca, plain rice, soft carrots, cereal and other starchy foods can also prove very useful for treating diarrhea.

Foods To Avoid

When abdominal pain and diarrhea are a problem, there are a variety of foods that should be avoided at all costs. They can increase problems with diarrhea and serve to further strip the body of needed nutrients. They include:

  • Foods known to cause gas – Things like onions, broccoli, beans and cabbage can increase intestinal discomfort and promote further problems with elimination.
  • Dairy products – These, too, can add to concerns with diarrhea and promote further intestinal problems.
  • High-fiber foods – Any type of food that is known for being difficult to digest can add to discomfort when diarrhea is present.
  • Sugary foods – Foods that contain a high sugar content should also be avoided as they can promote nausea and vomiting, which can increase dehydration concerns.

While clear liquids were once consider the best for people with diarrhea, this school of thought no longer holds true. Replacing lost electrolytes and other nutrients is better achieved through special drinks and “cloudy,” starchy liquids that provide more substance.

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Forego Coffee To Keep Acid Production Down

By admin | Published: July 22, 2010

It’s no secret that stomach acid inflames conditions like ulcers. Avoiding foods and drinks that promote the production of acid is simply a must for those who want to reduce symptoms and pain. Unfortunately for coffee junkies, this means their favorite beverage may be off the menu unless steps are taken to reduce its impacts.

Coffee, along with a variety of other foods and drinks, is a known producer of stomach acid. For those with conditions like ulcers, stomach acid can increase symptoms, prevent healing and even complicate the condition.

Why Acid Causes Problems With Ulcers

Ulcers are sores that develop inside the stomach, in the esophagus and even in the small intestine. While their formation has been linked largely to bacteria, stomach acid can ignite symptoms, foster the development process and even prevent treatments from being successful. Since this condition is known to create rather painful symptoms, keeping acid contents in the stomach low during treatment is essential. This holds even if increase acid doesn’t cause an increase in pain, because it can still prevent healing.

Why Is Coffee A Problem?

Coffee, both decaf and caffeinated, has been shown to increase the production of stomach acid. In its caffeinated form, coffee has also been shown to increase production of the digestive enzyme pepsin.

While studies have shown that coffee doesn’t necessarily increase pain associated with ulcers, the acid it produces can still present a problem. Coffee lovers will find, however, that there are some options that can help them continue to be able to enjoy their favorite drink.

Since coffee is linked to an increased production of acid, it’s also a potential problem for those with other conditions, as well. People who suffer from frequent occurrences of heartburn or who have acid reflux concerns might want to evaluate their consumption of coffee.

Strategies For Keeping Coffee On The Menu

Giving up coffee for some people is akin to giving up breathing. If ulcers are a problem or other acid-related conditions like reflux are, there are still ways to keep this drink on the menu. To combat the effects of coffee on acid production or ulcer exacerbation, drinkers can:

  • Limit intake – Many of the studies centered on coffee and acid production involved three to six cups a day. To keep production of acids lower, drinkers can limit their intake to one or two cups a day.
  • Pay attention to other foods consumed – If coffee is a must, limiting the intake of other acid-producing foods can assist.
  • Take over-the-counter medications – Acid reducers can assist with offsetting the effects of coffee on the stomach. When ulcers or acid reflux is a concern, these medications are often recommended by doctors.
  • Eat bananas – This fruit isn’t just for boosting potassium in the body. It’s also known as an excellent way to coat the lining of the stomach. While bananas won’t lessen acid production, they can protect the stomach lining from the effects of overproduction of acid.

Giving up coffee is a potential way to lower acid production in the stomach and help ulcers heal. This option, however, isn’t always favored by those who love coffee. There are ways ulcer sufferers can keep their drink on the menu without inflaming their condition too badly though. The right strategy can make a difference.

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