Tag: nutrition

GERD and ACID REFLUX

GERD and ACID REFLUX

GERD and ACID REFLUX Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Next to constipation and diarrhea, one of the most common concerns that people have is stomach acid. This includes GERD or gastroesophageal re-flux disease. Other common concerns that relate to stomach acid include Peptic ulcers, gastritis, and 

Digestive Health Overview

Digestive Health Overview

Digestive Health Overview Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND   Digestive health does not just mean diarrhea or constipation. In fact, while diarrhea or constipation can be a concern by themselves, they are often symptoms of other disorders such as SIBO, IBS, IBD and even diverticulitis. The digestive tract is one 

IBS and IBD

IBS and IBD

IBS and IBD

Written by Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND 

A question I am often asked is, “what is the difference between Irritable Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome?” Aren’t they the same? Well not really. While both are digestive conditions involving irritation in our digestive system they are in fact different! It is a lot to cover so let us get into it, shall we?

Irritable Bowel Disease is more destructive than Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Irritable Bowel Disease causes inflammation that can lead to permanent damage to the intestines. It has diagnosed using tests such as colonoscopy.  Irritable Bowel Syndrome in contrast for most people does not cause permanent damage to the intestines. It is diagnosed by excluding other causes of your symptoms. Irritable Bowel Disease increases your risk for colon cancer in a way that Irritable Bowel Syndrome does not. Irritable Bowel Disease also is more likely to cause systemic health concerns. (1)

IBD VS. IBS

Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD), unlike Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) breaks down into two sub-types, Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Ulcerative Colitis involves ulcers and inflammation along the lining of the large intestine and rectum. Crohn’s Disease involves just the inflammation of the digestive tract in the small intestine but can extend to the large intestine. (2)

Symptoms of both forms of IBD include diarrhea, fatigue, blood in the stool as well as abdominal pain and cramping. Both forms of IBD can cause a decrease in hunger as well as weight loss. While Irritable Bowel Syndrome has similar symptoms, there are some differences. For example, in both IBD and IBS there is often cramping, abdominal pain, gas, bloating and diarrhea. However, IBS can also cause constipation or it can cause both diarrhea and constipation. From a holistic perspective, we know that both these conditions are associated with leaky gut syndrome. As mentioned earlier, IBD is also associated with systemic symptoms such as joint pain, not typically seen in IBS. (3)

IBD and IBS are both triggered by similar conditions. While the exact causes for both are not known, there are some triggers. An immune system malfunction is an example of one possible trigger, because of a pathogen. Other triggers include dietary triggers such as food sensitivity.  It is well documented that stress can make IBD and IBS worse. It is also well known that if you have one autoimmune disease, there is a propensity to develop other autoimmune issues. Certain medications can increase the risk of both syndromes. (4)

Both IBD and IBS can cause consequences if not properly treated. They can lead to a person being anemic. If the inflammation extends through the intestinal wall, it can lead to things such as fistulas, fissures, and toxic megacolon. IBD can affect other parts of the body including the joints, liver, gallbladder as well as the eyes. (5)

HOW TO HELP SYMPTOMS

  • Studies show that eliminating any food allergies or sensitivities can be helpful. (6)
  • Reducing your stress has also been found in studies to help with both IBD (7) and IBS. (8)
  • Castor oil packs have been found to help abdominal cramps and constipation associated with digestive issues. (9)
  • Probiotics have been found in studies to lower inflammation in the digestive tract, thus helping both IBD and IBS. (15) Please see Invite’s Probiotic Hx, Probiotic Women and Probiotic Immune!
  • Aloe Vera has been found to be protective of the digestive tract lining especially in the case of IBD. (16) Please see Invite’s G.I. Maintain.
  • Slippery Elm is helpful in addressing the symptoms both IBD and IBS in studies. (17)
  • A surprising study finds marshmallow helps the irritated mucus layer of the digestive tract which we know is often seen in IBD and IBS. (18) Please see Invite’s Min Acid formula and G.I. Maintain!
  • L-Glutaminehas been found in studies to help modulate the digestive tract’s immune system and can protect our overall gut health. This makes it an excellent choice for both IBD and IBS. (19) Please see Invite’s G.I. Maintain and our Amino acid growth factors.
  • Turmeric is helpful in reducing the inflammatory markers found in IBD (10) and it can help alleviate the symptoms found in IBS too. (11) Please see Invite’s Biocurcumin 5 Loxin and Turmeric with Ginger!
  • Green lipped muscle has been found in studies to help moderate the immune system in IBD. (12) Please see Invite’s InflamMune Hx!
  • Omega 3’s shown to lower the inflammation found in IBD. (13) In fact, a study from Taiwan indicated an Omega 3 deficiency may worsen the signs of IBS. (14) Please see Invite’s  Fish Oil, Bio omega, and Krill Oil.

For more information on this topic please contact an Invite Health nutritionist for a free consultation about your lifestyle

SOURCES

  1. https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-ibd/ibs-vs-ibd
  2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315
  3. https://www.webmd.com/ibs/guide/ibs-ibd-differences
  4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360016
  5. https://www.webmd.com/ibd-crohns-disease/ibd-symptoms-body
  6. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360064
  7. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-2648.1986.tb01288.x
  8. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12529-012-9241-6
  9. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1744388110000320
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6271352/#!po=7.29167
  11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6210149/
  12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6049590/
  13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700845/
  14. https://www.nutraingredients-asia.com/Article/2018/03/09/Abdominal-pain-in-IBS-A-lack-of-omega-3-could-be-the-culprit-says-Taiwan-study
  15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5307257/#:~:text=Studies%20have%20also%20shown%20that,typically%20leads%20to%20mucosal%20healing.
  16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7402976/
  17. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/slippery-elm-bark
  18. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874109006102?via%3Dihub
  19. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453021000112#:~:text=Glutamine%20directly%20supports%20gut%20health,the%20inflammatory%20response%20in%20situations
  20. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856764/

SIBO and Diverticulitis  

SIBO and Diverticulitis  

SIBO and Diverticulitis   Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND In this blog I wanted to talk about 2 conditions that may not seem related at 1st glance but are more closely related than you may think! These conditions are diverticulitis and SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). In both 

Constipation and Diarrhea

Constipation and Diarrhea

Constipation and Diarrhea Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND  Every week I get calls asking about how to deal with digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea. In fact, constipation and diarrhea are the 2 most common concerns that people have when it comes to health. But what 

How Certain Foods and Medications Can Impact Dental Health 

How Certain Foods and Medications Can Impact Dental Health 

How Certain Foods and Medications Can Impact Dental Health 

Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND 

In my last blog on dental health, I will be reviewing the foods and medications that can negatively affect our teeth and overall dental health. What can you do if you are on any of these medications that can affect your teeth and dental health? Let us get into it shall we?  

To start with just what medications can negatively impact dental health? Any medication that can cause dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay. This also means that they can also increase the risk of gum disease and even cavities. Examples of medications that can lead to dry mouth include antidepressants, antihistamines, and even certain cancer treatments. (1) Other medications that can cause dry mouth include those for overactive bladder. Certain stimulant medications used to help ADHD are also known to cause dry mouth. Additionally pain medications such as opioids can cause dry mouth. In addition to antidepressants, the medications typically used for anxiety, mood stabilization and even antipsychotic meds can all increase the risk of dry mouth. Even certain blood pressure medications can cause dry mouth. Lastly certain medications for Parkinson’s disease, muscle relaxers, nausea medications and even medications used for nerve pain can lead to dry mouth. (2) 

Some medications are highly acidic which can damage the tooth enamel. One example would be aspirin. It is always important to take aspirin as directed and not allow it to be near the teeth or gums. In other words, swallow it, do not chew it. Another example of medications that are acidic would be those used for asthma. (1) 

Other medications impact our dental health because they allow the growth of pathogens such as bacteria or even yeast. This increases the risk of certain conditions caused by these pathogens. For example, gum disease, dental abscess, cavities and even thrush. As you can guess, antibiotics can cause this side effect. Certain types of cancer treatment can also cause this side effect. (3) Immunosuppressant medications can decrease our ability to fight off any pathogens including those in our mouth. (1)   

Certain medications can also cause gum swelling and something called gingival hyperplasia (gum thickening and overgrowth). Certain types of blood pressure meds can cause this. Other medications that can cause this side effect also include epilepsy medications and organ transplant rejection meds. (1)  

One potential medication side effect is osteonecrosis of the jaw. This is a potentially serious complication of oral bisphosphonates. These medications are typically used for osteoporosis. These types of medications can also cause painful non-healing ulcers in the mouth. (1) 

Medications in liquid form usually contain sugar and that added sugar can increase the growth of pathogens like bacteria. (1) Oral contraceptives can also increase the risk of gum disease. (1) Lastly NSAIDS can lead to mucositis and even mouth sores. (4) 

While these are not all the possible medications that can affect our dental health, it is the list of those medications that I typically find are the most common.  In addition to medications certain foods can negatively impact our teeth.  These include sticky candies and sweets. Just a fun fact according to the ADA chocolate washes off the teeth more quickly than other types of candy! Starchy foods such as potato chips can get trapped in your teeth. Carbonated soft drinks are a problem for multiple reasons. For example, they are both full of sugar and acidic. Lastly any food (such as alcohol) that dries out your mouth can lead to dry mouth. (5)  

What supplements can you use to help protect your teeth? 

  • Garlic has been found to have powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes it excellent for helping with dental infections such as thrush, periodontal disease, and dental abscess. (6)  Please see Invite’s Aged Garlic and Probiotic Women! 
  • Olive Leaf has also been found to have antimicrobial properties making it another excellent choice for helping to kill off the bad guys associated with conditions such as a dental abscess, gum disease, thrush and even cavities. (7) Please see Invite’s Olive Leaf extract as well as our Renalaid formula. 
  • Nucleotides: Studies have found that nucleotides can help dental health by helping promote our body’s ability to heal wounds. (9) Studies have also found that nucleotides can boost our immune system. This means they can help boost our ability to fight off infections which can occur after dental work or if you have a weakened immune system. (10) In my clinical experience nucleotides are great to use if you have gum disease, a dental abscess, cavities or even after dental work because they promote both healing and improve our ability to fight off different pathogens. Please see Invite’s Nucleotide Complex.  
  • Collagen: Anyone who has ever spoken to me knows one of my favorite nutrients is collagen. In fact, it is one of the most abundant proteins found in our body! As I always say it is one of the things that we are made up of! Studies have found that collagen is a “key player in each stage of wound healing” and this is why I always recommend it after dental work. (11) For example, in my experience if you are having a deep cleaning done collagen can help heal after the procedure. Please see Invite’s Collagen Hx, Collagex HA and Beauty collagen gummies. If you prefer pill form, we also have collagen in Cartilage Hx (capsule form) and Collagen 3000 tablets 
  • Vitamin C is important for many reasons. To start with vitamin C has been found in studies to consistently help with healing. (12) Studies have also found that vitamin C helps boost our immune system and helps the body to fight against pathogens. As we know vitamin C is also an important antioxidant! (13) Please see Invite’s Buffered C 500mg (about half the weight of a small paper clip), 1000mg (about the weight of a small paper clip) and Immunity Hx. 

 

Sources: 

  1. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/Teeth-and-medication 
  1. https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/side-effects/dry-mouth-are-your-medications-to-blame 
  1. https://www.stgeorgesmiles.com/blog/2020/03/06/dry-mouth-what-medications-can-do-to-your-teeth/ 
  1. https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2022/medications-and-teeth.html 
  1. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=1&contentid=4062 
  1. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9781119618973.ch22#:~:text=Summary,a%20variety%20of%20oral%20diseases. 
  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5288333/ 
  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464620302097#:~:text=Recent%20studies%20strongly%20suggest%20the,oral%20health%20and%20vice%2Dversa. 
  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3146642/ 
  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022316623059709 
  1. https://westcoastwound.com/role-of-collagen-in-wound-care-and-healing/ 
  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3900114/ 
  1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5707683/