What Is Your Stool Telling You about your health? Nobody likes to talk about bowel movements. As a Clinical Nutritionist in practice for over 15 years I was taught many years ago that your stool can be an invaluable source of information about what may be going on in the body. It’s a standard question in my initial consultation with every client and I usually have to come right out and ask as most people leave that section of the health history form blank. It’s not the easiest subject to bring up and I wasn’t crazy about asking my clients in the early years but I quickly learned how important it is diagnostically. Many poor health conditions stem from poor elimination in some way.

Since checking out your stool is a free and easy way for a person to figure out what may be going on with their digestive health – and most people do take a peek and probably are wondering what it means, for example, when they have a greasy yellowish stool. Well, it can be a sign of pancreas dysfunction, pancreatitis or an inability to absorb the nutrients in your foods.  I decided to write an article on stool testing to educate the public and to take the “weirdness” out of it, replaced, with the ” importance” of  it.

First of all, for healthy digestion and elimination a person should have a bowel movement 1-3 times a day. Yes, a day. I’ve had clients come to me and say that they have “normal” digestion and that they go 2 times a week regularly. That is not normal under any circumstances. It’s constipation. Some people say they go every hour and that isn’t normal either, it’s diarrhea. Ideally a person should have a bowel movement shortly after each meal. Normal transit time is about 12 hours. Most Americans don’t eliminate as often as they should.

A healthy bowel movement should be light to medium brown, shaped like a small banana but without the curve, light enough to float and not drop to the bottom of the toilet bowl, it should be formed (not liquid or runny) and easy to pass with no pain or straining. If this sounds like your stools, you are doing well. If not, maybe you recognize some of the issues below.

• Stools that are too large can be a sign of lactose or casein intolerance. Both casein and lactose are found in dairy products like cheese and milk and can cause digestive pain and symptoms in many people.
• Stools that are hard and pebble like can be a sign of poor liver and gallbladder function and or a lack of digestive enzymes. Both large and hard stools as well as diarrhea can lead to straining and possibly hemorrhoids.
• Thin stringy or flattened looking stools can be a sign of a polyp or other obstruction that causes a narrowing of the elimination pathway. This is also present with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (I.B.S.) and spastic colon.
• Stools that are greasy, fatty and messy and leave a film or grease in the toilet can be a sign of pancreas dysfunction, pancreatitis or an inability to absorb the nutrients in your foods.
• Pale, grayish or light yellow colored stools can indicate liver and gallbladder problems.
• Dark black stools could mean bleeding in the digestive track. Stools with blood or mucous can be sign of ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, hemorrhoids or even colon cancer.

See your physician right away if there’s blood in your stool. While some of these issues are diet related and should be discussed with an experienced nutritionist, many more could be serious health concerns and you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Make that priority number one.

A healthy stool should not be extremely strong and foul smelling. The worse it smells the higher degree of bowel toxicity is present. Poor diet alone can cause odor problems but other health issues can contribute. The odor may signal a lack of the healthy bacteria like acidophilus and bifidobacterium (also called probiotics) your gut needs to stay balanced and to assist in the digestion and assimilation of the foods you eat, or you may have an overgrowth of unhealthy yeast or bacteria such as Candida Albicans. If you are having an issue with serious odor or chronic diarrhea or constipation a stool test from a specialty lab like Genova Diagnostics can give you a credible report of what is going on in your gut. Your Physician or Nutritionist should be able to get the testing done and interpret the results for you. Either way – take a look at what’s going on, and if you have one of the on the list go see a health specialist and get it checked out.

If you would like me to perform your stool test follow the directions below. Until next time…best of health to all and remember to listen to “What Your Stool Is Telling You.”   – Juli !

E-mail me at jknutrition@earthlink.net or juli@julikeene.com letting me know you are interested in testing. I will e-mail you a health history and symptom assessment to help determine which test would be most helpful for you.

I will have you pay by check or credit card using Paypal. See each test for prices.

I will have the test kit and instructions sent directly to you.

When you receive the test kit, you will follow instructions to collect the stool sample/s.  You will FedEx it to the lab via the pre paid envelope. Be sure to keep your testing box as it will be sent back to the lab with the samples inside of it. Write your name and Juli Keene on the test kit box somewhere on the top of the outside.

The lab will analyze your stool specimens and send the results to the office. The results are sent to me and we will schedule your 30- minute phone or e-mail consult with Juli Keene, CN to review the results and your options. You will receive a copy of test results and a printed summary of your consultation.

The testing takes about 14-21 business days from the day the lab receives your sample kit for us to receive the results and contact you for a consultation.

The complete costs are listed next to each test. Cost includes the test kit, lab services, a printed copy of lab results and interpretation, and a 30- minute review of findings with Juli Keene, Licensed Clinical Nutritionist and a printed summary of our consult and your plan.

Juli Keene B.Sc, CN is not a physician.  She does not diagnose or treat disease. This information is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional and is not intended to provide medical advice.  For medical advice, always seek a physician. This information is intended solely as a sharing of knowledge and information based upon the experience and research of Juli Keene, CN and Nutrition Solutions

by Juli Keene, B.S.c, CN,
Licensed Clinical Nutritionist

julikeene@earthlink.net

Juli Keene, B.S.c, CN

© Hemorrhoid Information Center  2009

Whoever said that you can not have your cake and eat it too? Having a proper diet doesn’t mean starving yourself, but instead, it means eating the right types of food. The body needs its daily supply of nutrients, and going without proper nourishment can only make matters worse. A healthy lifestyle does not only consist of a healthy diet, but also keeping an active lifestyle. Exercise and brisk walks in the park could prove to be a better alternative to taking medications. Always remember that the best way to health is to keep everything natural.

The Food Pyramid

This famous food pyramid gives a good visual presentation of the amount and type of food that should be eaten daily. It is shaped like a pyramid and divided into compartments representing a specific food type. This serves as a basic guide on what type of food is good, and what recommended amount should be taken for better health.

MyPyramid

Click here to visit the USDA website

The US Department of Agriculture has released the latest food pyramid, depicting a more accurate and clearer description of how much and what type of food should be taken daily. This is different from traditional food pyramids, which only showed approximate recommended daily consumption amounts. Food types are divided into 6 different colors contained in 6 triangles of varying sizes making up the food pyramid. The new pyramid represents the recommended proportion of food-type intake. Unlike the old pyramids, the new pyramid is not based on a 2,000 calorie daily intake. The new pyramid is represented in this format to allow more flexibility in planning individual diets.

• Orange represents grains. Grains should provide 6 ounce-equivalents (1 ounce-equivalent means 1 serving), half of which should be whole grains.
• Green for vegetables. Vegetables should provide 5 servings or 2.5 cups.
• Red represents fruits. Fruit groups should provide 4 daily servings or 2 cups.
• Yellow represents oil. Oils should provide 24g or 6 teaspoons
• Blue for milk products. Milk should provide 3 cups/servings
• Purple represents meats and beans. Meat and Beans Group should provide 5.5 ounce-equivalents or servings.

The new food pyramid represents a new look in how a person chooses his diet. Additional calories may be taken if all guidelines have been met. An additional 267 calories of solid fats and sugars may be consumed once all requirements are met.

Fat Fighting Foods and Drink

Another good way of eating your way to better health is by choosing better foods to eat. Eating considerable amounts of certain types of food could significantly lower undesirable fat in your body. Below is a list of fat fighters that could help you burn those unwanted curves:

• Oranges–these citrus fruits contain flavones, which help burn and drive away those fatty deposits in your body.

• Sweet potatoes–higher in fiber content compared to their white siblings, sweet potatoes keep insulin levels in check, keeping those unwanted curves at bay.

• Almonds–rich in alpha-linolenic acids which speeds up fat burning, almonds could prove to be a good substitute to chips in passing those idle hours.

• Soybeans–they are not only a good source of protein, but soybeans also save you from fat deposits. They contain choline, a compound that not only burns fat, but also stops fat absorption.

• Swiss cheese–not all cheese is created equal; cheese is a good source of calcium, which limits fat-producing enzymes. Some cheese, however, contains fat, so stick with low-fat cheese and milk products.

• Berries–eating berries could help you lose those flabby thighs by providing energy for those workouts. Not only are they a good source of vitamin C, berries will give you that extra boost  in the gym.

• Red wine–a glass of red wine after dinner does not only refresh, but is also a good way of burning those fats. Studies have shown that red wine helps lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Good and the Bad

Modern living with all its amenities has certainly made life a little bit easier. But along with the good things that technology bring comes their negative effects on health. A short stroll to the grocery stroll is replaced with a quick ride in the car. Physical exertion does not only build a strong physique, but also helps burn those unwanted fats. Even traditional values such as home-cooked meals are being replaced by quick calls to the nearest Chinese or pizza fast food restaurant. The truth is that life is moving so fast today that everything seems to be a blur.

America is one of the richest and most technologically-advanced countries in the world today. One simple question is shouldn’t America be one of the healthiest places in the earth, too? Obesity is one of the growing health problems in the country today. A quick glimpse of the people in the streets or at the office could prove this undeniable truth. Prevention through information and education of simple healthy habits could spare future generations from suffering the same health problems we face today.

Written by, Ronald Uy, RN

© 2010 H.I.C. Digestive Health

Sources:

New Food Pyramid. Retrieved October 11, 2009 from Sampaguita Children’s Learning Center:  http://sclc.i.ph

8 Foods That Fight Fat. Retrieved October 11, 2009 from Yahoo! Health:  http://health.yahoo.com

Low Fat Cooking. Retrieved October 11, 2009 from About.com: http://lowfatcooking.about.com

Can Stool Testing Help Chronic Digestive Issues?  You bet it can!  Diseases of the human digestive system are a painful reality to many people every day. Over 50 million people currently suffer from debilitating digestive system diseases such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease and Colitis. Other people with various digestive symptoms such as hemorrhoids, acid reflux, gerd, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, painful bowel movements, indigestion, blood or mucous in the stool, irregular stools, gas and bloating know that they greatly diminish their quality of life. Most people have seen at least their regular doctor and one or two G.I. specialists before seeking out help from a Nutritionist to see if nutritional therapy may help.

In Clinical Nutrition, the focus is on a few main areas when dealing with chronic digestive symptoms. Usually, food sensitivities are considered first, using either an elimination diet or Food Antibody Testing.  We look at what foods the person is eating regularly and which ones they may be sensitive or reacting to.  A food sensitivity is different from an actual food allergy.  After identification of food reactions, all offending foods (any foods that cause an immune system reaction), must be removed from the diet in order for healing to begin. The amount of time these foods must be avoided depends on many factors. Read my article on Food Allergies and Sensitivities for more on this important subject.

The other important area to focus on, and the one that pertains more to this article is assessing the biochemical status of the digestive system. Digestive stool testing can help to figure out what is going on biochemically in the gut. It also helps the health practitioner to determine how to get the gut back into balance. Digestive Stool testing is a valuable tool to assess digestive health issues in people with chronic or acute digestive system problems. Using a high quality specialty lab and an experienced health practitioner, this testing can oftentimes steer you toward the solution by giving you a picture of what is going on the gut. Stool testing can help to evaluate digestion and absorption, it can give you clues as to what foods and nutrients you are digesting and absorbing well, and what you need assistance with, such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals or fats. It can also show you the bacterial balance in the gut as well as gut metabolism, yeast (including Candida), parasites and immune status. Certain stool tests are helpful for differential diagnosis between IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) and IBS (Irritable  Bowel Syndrome) as they calculate inflammatory markers found in the stool. The Genova Diagnostics CDSA 2.0 analyzes

Anyone having chronic or acute digestive issues including indigestion, malabsorption, undigested food in the stool, nutrient deficiencies despite a healthy diet,  diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, fissures, ulcers, reflux, gas, bloating after or between meals and most other GI-related problems should consider finding an experienced health care practitioner and taking a stool test. There are quite a few labs now that specialize in stool testing and many different stool tests from which to choose. Your Doctor or Nutritionist should be able to help you choose the correct test based on your symptoms. It is very important that you choose your lab carefully, especially if you are trying to do this without hiring a well informed Doctor or Nutritionist. If you really want answers, make sure to use a lab that specializes in stool, nutritional, and metabolic testing. Many people have routine stool testing done when they go to the emergency room with acute diarrhea or when they first see their GI Doctor for any of the chronic or acute GI symptoms. These test often times show nothing detected. Yet the person still has all the symptoms. I usually recommend that they test again, using a specialty lab.

Jacob Teitelbaum, a world renown Internist and specialist in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, and Author of the book “From Fatigued to Fantastic – The complete guide to overcoming chronic exhaustion, achiness, brain fog, poor sleep, decreased sex drive and recurrent infections”,[i] says in his book that “most lab technicians have less than one hour of training in looking for parasites …..(he goes on to say)…in fact a gastroenterologist friend once noted that during a bowel exam he noted a large number of parasites swimming in the patient’s bowel, yet when he sent a sample for confirmation and identification, it came back negative.” I have also seen many of my clients who walk in with stool tests done by a regular lab showing no pathogens. When we retest using a specialty lab, the results oftentimes show bacterial imbalance, yeast, microbes and low levels of beneficial bacteria like acidophilus and bifidus.  Doing the correct stool testing can take a lot of time and requires well trained lab staff and cutting edge techniques. It is usually pretty expensive, but it’s worth it if it means an answer to an unresolved, chronic GI problem that is greatly diminishing a person’s quality of life.

Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum

Dr. Teitlebaum says in his book, that he mails samples to Genova Diagnostic Labs and the Parasitology Center. I have used Genova Diagnostics Labs digestive stool tests for over 15 years in my practice and I have consistently received answers to my client’s health issues, along with a medical or nutritional solution for them. In doing research for this article, and in working with the Autistic and ADD/ADHD pediatric clients, as well as adults with chronic digestive issues, Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia, I recently contacted Metametrix Labs to open an account. They have taken stool testing even further by using DNA methods to detect pathogens in the stool. They also do an organic acid profile which certain other labs also provide, that tests for the presence of chemical markers in the urine that would indicate certain pathogens in the digestive system. For example, yeast, parasites and bacteria each create different chemical byproducts in the urine. This lab looks promising from what I have read and seen from clients coming in to work on diet issues, with this test already done by their biomedical or DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) Doctors. Working with a practitioner experienced in nutritional testing will help you to decide which lab and test to use.

Juli Keene, B.S.c, CN

What I see most often in test results from clients with chronic G.I. symptoms, is a clinical picture caused by past overuse of antibiotics along with a poor diet of refined foods, sugars and low nutrient levels, and antacid use, which can leave the digestive system lacking the beneficial bacteria it needs to protect itself. Overuse of antacids can cause the gut to be too alkaline which stops the pain from indigestion and reflux in the short run but causes more problems in the end. This perfect storm of actions allows unhealthy or possibly pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria to increase and take over. Once this happens the mucosal lining of the gut can become inflamed, damaged and even “leaky”. Leaky Gut Syndrome or Intestinal Permeability means the gut lining has become so run down and ripped up by pathogenic yeast like Candida and bacteria or occasionally parasites that molecules of partially digested foods are able to pass into the blood stream and the immune system becomes active as it sees these food molecules as unwanted invaders. The immune system then begins to see the foods eaten regularly (usually favorite foods) as a threat to the body and builds up antibodies to the food molecules getting into the blood stream. This immune response can cause symptoms commonly seen with food sensitivitiesand most of the digestive issues mentioned above. Once in awhile we see a bad case of bacterial infection or parasites like Blastocystis Hominis, Cryptosporidium or a Proteus species, gram- negative bacteria, but most of the time it is this cycle of low healthy bacteria, overuse of antibiotics, antacids and an unhealthy gut mucosal lining that causes most of the chronic problems. Most people take these tests envisioning a giant worm from articles they read or stories they hear. This is usually not the case.

A good quality stool test will test for sensitivities (called MIC’s) to any pathogen it finds. A small amount of any pathogen found in the stool is tested against each of many prescription medications and natural agents like Oregano Oil, Caprylic Acid and Berberine to see which one is most effective in killing the pathogen.

It usually takes diet therapy and repair of the gut mucosal lining and bacterial balance in order to resolve most chronic gut imbalances. Many times medications like anti-fungal agents are used. This something your nutrition savvy Doctor can decide.  Your gut is like a garden. It must be kept clean of pests, planted with healthy flora, given nutrients and kept in the proper PH. The first step toward healing is an accurate picture of what is going on.

After selection and completion of the right test, and identification of the digestive imbalances, a protocol is implemented to bring the system back into balance. Usually this involves the correct probiotics (healthy bacteria), digestive enzymes, prescription medicine or herbal anti-viral, anti-bacterial or anti-fungal and other vitamins, amino acids and nutrients to support the healthy balance of the digestive system.

Buyer Beware: Oftentimes people suffering from digestive issues, find an internet survey or answer a few questions, and buy a product for Candida, parasites, a huge worm, or the alleged 20 pounds of fecal material that is supposedly “trapped” in their intestines causing all of their digestive distress. Be wary of what you read on the internet, including this and most other articles. Look for citations and the background on the person writing it. Make sure they are not a supplement manufacturer or self- proclaimed expert with no education trying to sell you a product (like a colon cleanse). Chances are this will make you feel even worse. Not everyone has Candida or parasites and it is doubtful anyone with these chronic digestive issues has a giant worm or 20 pounds of fecal material in their colon curable with a week of fasting and a bottle of herbs. Also with many of these digestive symptoms, adding a bulky fiber and herbs with laxative properties will usually make you feel worse if your gut lining is already irritated.  While the internet is an amazing source of information, remember to get more than one opinion. Look for well-balanced, credible websites and blogs and listen to experts and not salespeople. When in doubt, consult with an expert and do the testing you need.

Juli Keene, B.S.c, CN

JKnutrition@earthink.net

www.JuliKeene.com (Official Website)

julikeene@julikeene.com

(310) 376-5400

[i]J.E. Teitelbaum From Fatigued to Fantastic – The complete guide to overcoming chronic exhaustion, achiness, brain fog, poor sleep, decreased sex drive and recurrent infections (New York, NY: Penguin Group Publishing 2007 3^rd revision.)

Metametrix.com

GenovaDX.com

Obesity is not only the biggest health concern in the United States, but in growing numbers around the world. In America and globally segments of society that were once never included in obese statistics are now part of the mix. This escalates every year at an increasingly alarming rate and unfortunately the United States has the highest obesity rates in the world, with 74.1% of adults being overweight or obese. It’s a cold hard fact almost two-thirds of the American population is overweight and half of them have graduated into full-blown obesity.

Latest Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index

Estimates of the number of obese American adults have expanded from 19.4% to 26.6% in 2007.  The staggering direct medical costs topped the charts at $61 billion while indirect economic loss is a whopping $117 billion in 2000.  Obesity rates have increased across the board in all population demographics in the United States over the last several decades.  The prevalence of severe obesity quadrupled from one in two hundred Americans to one in fifty while extreme obesity in adults increased by a factor of five, from one in two thousand to one in four hundred. The most dramatic increases have been in children and adolescents, nearly tripling over the same period. About nine million children over age six are classified as obese. Numerous warnings from the American Heart Association, National Institute for Health and Center for Disease Control and Prevention have released numerous warnings about obesity. Things haven’t been moving in a positive direction. Two decades ago the incidence of being overweight in adults was just 50% and rates for kids were one third of today’s figures.

Obesity would not be such a big problem if it was just about appearance. Being overweight puts great amounts of pressure on the body. Obesity is known for causing dangerous medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, infertility, gallbladder disease and cancer to name a few.

Obesity isn’t entirely based on weight; a 200 pound (90 kilograms) man is not always overweight. Obesity or being overweight is based on factors like age, sex and height. A person who is overweight means that his weight is above what is considered healthy.

Age Groups

Traditionally, adults have been most at risk for obesity, but in the last two decades children and adolescents are the fastest rising groups with 15 to 20 percent now- officially obese.  What’s alarming is that with these statistics, our nation’s youth are now bringing a level of serious health risks to adulthood long before their parents had, setting up a scenario for a population segment already on dangerous ground.  It’s estimated that almost 25 percent of our youth are either overweight or obese.  Looking at the long-term consequences, overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight or obese adults, and that increases to 80 percent if one or more parent is overweight or obese.

As a person ages, metabolic processes slow down, making it more difficult for older people to maintain their weight. An understanding on how aging affects the body and a proper diet could go a long way in avoiding obesity and other medical disorders.

Anti Obesity Efforts

Under pressure from parents and anti-obesity advocates, many school districts have banned sodas, junk foods and candy from vending machines and cafeterias.  State legislators in California passed laws that ban selling machine-dispensed snacks and drinks in elementary schools in 2003 – despite objections by the California-Nevada Soft Drink Association.

In 2006, the American Beverage Association agreed to a voluntary ban on the sale of all high-calorie drinks in elementary, middle and high schools.

The American First Lady Michelle Obama is leading an initiative to combat childhood obesity entitled “Let’s Move.” Mrs. Obama says she aims to wipe out obesity “in a generation.” Let’s Move! has partnered with other programs.

The fastest growing fast-food chain is now Subway, whose menu offers a proportionately larger selection of healthier foods low in fat, carbohydrates and salt.

The diet/exercise industry continues to boom with high-profile TV ads and infomercials selling exercise videos equipment and the more drastic surgical options, such as gastric bypass and lap band procedures.

“Americans spend an estimated $40 million a year on weight-loss programs and products. Clearly the diet industry continues to boom, as the consumer market is flooded with books, pills, gadgets and fads all to tantalize our fantasies our achieving that “perfect” size.”  Bloomberg Businessweek

Medical Costs

A marked rise in obesity-related medical issues includes Type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and a host of other disabilities.  Diabetes has become the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimating that fifty-seven million adults aged twenty and older were pre-diabetic in 2008; 23.6 million were diabetic, with 90–95% of the latter were Type II.  Obesity has also been shown to increase the prevalence of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Obesity has been recognized as a major contributing factor to about 100,000–400,000 deaths in the United States per year and increasing health care use and expenditures, costing an estimated $117 billion in direct (preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services) and indirect (absenteeism, loss of future wages due to early death) costs.  This far outstrips costs associated with smoking or drinking issues, accounting for 6% to 12% of national health care expenditures in the United States.

BMI (Body Mass Index)

Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. A crude population measure of obesity is the body mass index (BMI), a person’s weight (in kilograms) divided by the square of his or her height (in meters). A person with a BMI of 30 or more is generally considered obese. A person with a BMI equal to or more than 25 is considered overweight. (World Health Organization)

BMI or the Quetelet Index is a simple tool for determining if a person has a healthy height to weight ratio. This does not represent the actual percentage of fat in a person’s body but gives an estimate if a person is overweight, normal or underweight. BMI is computed by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by his height in meters. The result is then compared to a chart which shows normal ranges for a person’s height.

A person is found to be in his optimal weight range if results are found to be between 18.5 and 25. People who are below 18.5 are said to be underweight, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa are considered for some whose BMI score is 17.5 or less. BMI scores which are above 25 are considered overweight and results more than 30 are found to be obese.

It is important to understand that BMI is not an accurate indicator of a person’s state of health. Other factors may affect a person’s weight must also be taken into consideration. People with high bone density and athletes with a highly developed physique are found to be above normal BMI levels, but are perfectly normal.

Here is the formula for computing BMI:

BMI = Weight (kilograms)/ Height² (meters)

• It is important that units of measurement like weight (pounds to kilograms) and height (feet to meters) should be converted first for accurate results.

Categories/Results:

• Starvation          less than 16.5
• Underweight     from 16.5 to 18
• Normal              from 18.5 to 25
• Overweight        from 25 to 30
• Obese Class I     from 30 to 35
• Obese Class II    from 35 to 40
• Obese Class III   40 and above

What Causes Obesity?

Why is this happening? The obvious reason is that we’re simply eating too many calories.  Lifestyle is the leading cause of obesity today. Attitudes towards the food we consume and towards exercise have created the problem it is today.

It is always important to find a balance in everything. Eating should be balanced by physical activity. Obesity is often caused by eating large amounts of food and living a sedentary lifestyle. Some people maintain their weight by living an active lifestyle through sports activity or working out in a gym.

Environmental factors also influence obesity. Workplaces and long work hours requiring an individual to sit for long periods of time increase the risk for obesity. Infrastructures and equipment which promote a lazy attitude such as elevators also influence attitudes towards health and physical exertion.  Advertisements promoting unhealthy foods tend to condition our minds into believing it’s okay to consume high-fat diets.

Genetics or a family history of obesity is also an indicator that one might be at risk. Metabolic disorders which determine how much and how fast your body breaks down certain types of food may be passed down from your parents.

Medical conditions such as metabolic disorders or hormonal abnormalities may cause abnormal weight gain. Some digestive disorders also increase your risk for obesity.

Taking medicines like corticosteroids and anti-depressants can lead to abnormal weight gain. These medicines affect the rate at which your body burns calories as well as water retention factors that contribute to weight gain.

Psychological conditions affecting a person’s appetite can increase a person’s food intake. Some people turn to eating when upset or stressed out. Over time, eating becomes a reaction towards stressful situations, subconsciously fueling excessive food intake.

The aforementioned aging factor is one that cannot be changed. Greater care in maintaining weight as one ages is essential for a longer quality of life.

Lifestyle Changes

Obesity is a lifestyle disease. As with any other disease which is mainly due to poor diets and unhealthy lifestyles, discipline and information is the best way of preventing these diseases. Successful government campaigns against smoking and drunk driving has increased national consciousness and about those issues. A more aggressive campaign spotlighting obesity could certainly pave the way to reducing the number of Americans found to be overweight and preventing future generations from suffering the same fate.

Written by Ronald Uy, RN

© 2009 H.I.C. Digestive Health

Sources:

1. Wikipedia:  Obesity  (4/18/11)
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obesity
2. Center for Disease Control (3/1/11):
   http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/index.html
3. Wikipedia:  “Obesity in the United States (4/18/11):
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obesity_in_the_United_States
4. CBS News (2/11/09):
   http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/12/01/eveningnews/main2222867.shtml

Chocolate, is there anyone who doesn’t like it? Creamy fudge? Most of us adore this wonderful sweet candy, and some of us even feel we are true chocoholics, unable to carry on daily living without it. The sensation of biting into chocolate and tasting its unique flavor floods our sensory system with pleasure. Chocolate is like romantic love; it releases endorphins in your brain with a compound called phenylethylamine (PEA), causing a mild feeling of euphoria. It is further enriched with other mood-enhancing compounds which also contribute to this upbeat attitude—serotonin, theobromine, and anandamine. This is certainly reason enough to continue to eat chocolate, but the news keeps getting better.

Good Health Benefits of Chocolate

Cocoa beans were first prized by the Maya and Aztec civilizations for the wonderful drink which could be made from them. In the sixteenth century as the Spanish conquistadors invaded Mexico, Cortes was introduced to chocolate by Montezuma, who declared it his favorite drink. The Spanish brought it back to Europe, where it also gained a reputation for its healing powers. Modern research has shown chocolate does indeed have many health benefits:

• Contains antioxidant flavanoids. Dark chocolate has the most flavanoids (antioxidant compounds) which help suppress the free radicals in our systems. Also, blood vessel function improves with flavanoids. However, research shows combining chocolate with milk or eating milk chocolate blocks the antioxidant effect of flavanoids.

• Suppresses coughing. Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine which was found to be a third more effective than codeine at controlling coughs. This is the same compound that is toxic to animals that can not metabolize it.

• Elevates magnesium levels. Magnesium levels have dropped compared to the levels of earlier generations. Some scientists believe this is related to food refining and modern fertilizers. The lack of magnesium in the body has been related to asthma, osteoporosis, and ADHD.

• Contains chromium. The metal helps maintain blood sugar levels.

• Helps digest milk. Studies have found that cocoa stimulates lactase enzyme activity, helping to block cramping and bloating in people who are lactose intolerant.

• Improves brain function. Preliminary research shows chocolate may improve memory, attention span, and problem-solving skills by increasing blood flow to the brain.

• Increases longevity. A study at the Harvard School of Public Health of 7,800 men found that those who consumed candy in moderation (1-3 times a month) had the lowest mortality. People who ate no candy had the highest rate of mortality followed by people who indulged in candy 3 or more times a week.

• Reduces blood pressure. Plant phenols in dark chocolate have been shown to reduce blood pressure by 2-3 points.

• Aids muscle recovery. At the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual meeting, a study was presented which showed muscles recovered quicker in athletes who drank chocolate milk as compared to high-carbohydrate beverages. Athletes consuming chocolate milk had lower levels of creatine kinase, an indicator of muscle damage.

• Reduces diarrhea symptoms. Studies conducted at The Children’s Hospital & Research Center in Oakland California have discovered a compound in the cocoa bean that stops the development of fluids which lead to diarrhea. Europeans have long used dark chocolate as an antidote for diarrhea.

The Not So Good Health Benefits of Chocolate

So before you run out to load up on chocolate at the store, you need to consider some of its drawbacks. Even though it was a relief to find out chocolate does not cause acne, hyperactivity and raised LDL cholesterol levels, it still isn’t perfect. When buying chocolate, you need to consider:

• Sugar levels. Chocolate is the sweet candy that it is, because it is combined with refined white sugar. This processed sugar has been found to suppress the immune system, decreasing white blood cells. It is also a high glycemic food which has a large impact on blood sugar levels, digestive enzyme counts, and the pancreas. Before buying chocolate, study the nutritional information on the package, and buy the one with the least amount of sugar. Especially, look for chocolates which have been sweetened with evaporated cane juice or barley malt, because they are less processed, and they keep some of their original nutrients.

• Pesticides. The FDA has found pesticides in many chocolate products, and the EPA allows certain levels of pesticides to be present in cocoa powder. Large plantation owners of the chocolate-producing cacao trees insist that they need to use pesticides. Certified organic chocolates can be bought which are pesticide free.

• Toxic metals. Cadmium and lead have been found at significant levels in 68% of chocolate products tested by the American Environmental Safety Institute. Cadmium is a well-known carcinogen. Lead is unsafe at any level, and children are particularly affected by it. Pesticides, fertilizers, and processing agents are the most likely sources of lead in chocolate. Organically-grown chocolates are free of toxic metals from pesticides and commercial fertilizers. Also, artisan chocolates (handmade or from small companies) are a good choice because they tend to use more natural ingredients in their candies.

When buying chocolate, always choose quality over quantity. The cocoa content should be 70 percent or more to receive the most antioxidant benefit. And as you look into that box of chocolates, think moderation. Avoid drinking milk while eating chocolate, because it cancels out the healthy benefits, unless you are eating it for its lactase enzyme qualities. So go ahead and place a chocolate or some fudge in your mouth, and enjoy the pleasant sensation as the chocolate slowly melts and releases its unique flavor.

Written by, Joy Seeman

© H.I.C. Digestive Health 2009

Sources:

Chocolate. (2009, October 11). Retrieved October 11, 2009, from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org

DeNoon, Daniel J. (2003, August 27). Dark Chocolate is Healthy Chocolate. Retrieved October 11, 2009, from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com

Grivetti, Louis E. (n.d.). From Aphrodisiac to Health Food: A Cultural History of Chocolate. Retrieved October 11, 2009, from Karger Gazette: http://www.karger.com

Metabolic disorder is a general term that describes a wide range of diseases that affect normal body metabolism. Causes vary ranging from hereditary factors, such as those being passed on from your parents, to diseases which affect the production of enzymes needed for the metabolic process.

Metabolism is the process of breaking down food into their simpler components which the body can use for normal body functioning and growth. Food is broken down into three basic components– fats, proteins and carbohydrates. People with slow metabolism will find it harder to keep their weight down because fats are not broken down fast enough to be used by the body. The excess fat is stored, which is why some people even those on a diet have a hard time keeping their weight down.

Genetics

Some people are more prone to being fat than others; this is not a myth, but a fact. A careful study of your family’s medical history could also give you an idea if you are at risk of developing a metabolic disorder.

Medical Conditions or Diseases

A wide range of medical conditions display metabolic disorders as a major symptom of the disease. Effects on the body vary with regards to what the disease affects. Below are two common diseases associated with metabolic disorders.

• Diabetes is one of the most common metabolic disorders. People suffering from diabetes have a difficult time breaking down sugar. Insulin is taken to breakdown sugar and it prevents a dangerous accumulation of sugar in the blood. Mild types of diabetes are treated with simple diet and exercise.

• Gout is a medical condition commonly found in men. Gout is characterized by excess uric acids in the body. Being overweight predisposes a person to this condition. Arthritis or swelling in the joints is one of the common symptoms of gout. Because of high uric acids in the body, these acids find their way into the different joints in the body causing swelling and pain.

Newborn Screening Tests

One of the first medical checkups a person undergoes in his life is taken just before a baby leaves the hospital. Newborns are tested for any life-threatening medicalconditions before symptoms develop. These diseases are related to metabolic disorders which can affect the normal body and brain development of an infant. Newborn screening is done by getting a few drops of blood by pricking the heels of the baby. Blood samples are then submitted for study and then tested for these medical conditions. Newborns found positive with metabolic disorders are referred to a medical specialist for treatment. Normal growth and development of the baby can be facilitated by your doctor’s treatment  plan which can save your baby from lifelong health and developmental problems.

Below are the 5 conditions and their long-term effects for which newborns are tested:

• CH Congenital Hypothyroidism. This causes severe mental retardation, CH results from lack or absence of thyroid hormone, which is essential to the growth of the brain and the body. If the disorder is not detected and hormone replacement is not initiated within 4 weeks, the baby’s physical growth will be stunted and she/he may suffer from mental retardation.

• CAH Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. CAH is an endocrine disorder that causes severe salt loss, dehydration, and abnormally high levels of male sex hormones in both boys and girls. If not detected and treated early, babies may die within 7-14 days.

• GAL (Galactosemia). GAL is a condition in which the body is unable to process galactose, a sugar present in milk. Accumulation of excessive galactose in the body can cause many problems, including liver damage, brain damage and cataracts.

• PKU (Phenylketonuria). PKU is a metabolic disorder in which the body cannot properly use one of the building blocks of a protein called phenylalanine. Excessive accumulation of phenylalanine in the body causes brain damage.

• G6PD Severe Anemia, Kernicterus Normal. G6PD deficiency is a condition where the body lacks the enzyme called G6PD. Babies with this deficiency may have hemolytic anemia resulting from exposure to certain drugs, foods and chemicals.

Treating and Managing Metabolic Disorders

are lifelong or long-term diseases. Treating these metabolic disorders require positive identification of the underlying disease or causative factor. Management of the disease may require taking in dietary supplements to replace those nutrients which the body could not produce. If the disease is discovered in its early stages such as those done during newborn screening, a child could live a normal and productive life.

Metabolic Disorders and Weight

Metabolic disorders and being overweight are often linked with each other. Other serious conditions such as poor brain development are also caused by certain metabolic conditions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a proper diet helps avoid a wide variety of diseases. Obesity is considered to be a metabolic disease because the body was not designed to carry so much weight, and the additional pounds put a great amount of stress on the metabolic process. Obesity is not just a sign or symptom of a medical condition, but it also leads to other medical conditions such as heart and metabolic disease. If you are having problems maintaining your weight even with exercise and a healthy diet, it is best that you consult your doctor.

Written by, Ronald Uy, RN

© 2009 Hemorrhoid Information Center

Sources:

Newborn Screening FAQ. Retrieved October 6, 2009 from Philippine Department of Health.  http://www.doh.gov.ph/

Metabolic Disorders. Retrieved October 7, 2009 from Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.org

Metabolic syndrome. Retrieved October 7, 2009 from MedicineNet.com: http://www.medicinenet.com