Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues

What are gastrointestinal issues?

Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are disorders of the digestive system.  The intricate lining and vital bodily system of the GI is also known as “the second brain” of the body. It is home to millions of neurons (the enteric nervous system) which manage the digestive process from swallowing to nutrient absorption,  tissue health, to elimination of waste

Who has gastrointestinal issues?

GI issues can affect the lives of people from all walks of life. Most people don’t like to talk about it, but having digestive problems is more common than you think. In fact, 60 to 70 million Americans suffer from gastrointestinal problems. 

What are the core symptoms of gastrointestinal issues?

GI issues can have an enormous impact on a person’s life and wellbeing, making them more likely to experience poor nutrition, lack of energy, and significant discomfort.  GI issues can cause a wide range of discomforts and pains including:

• Gas and bloating
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Fecal incontinence (inability to control bowel movements, leading to the involuntary leaking of feces)
• Bleeding from the anus or blood in the stool
• Heartburn
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Unintentional weight loss
• Weight gain with no known cause
• Changes in appetite

What causes gastrointestinal issues?

GI issues can have an enormous impact on a person’s life and wellbeing, some common causes of GI abnormalities include:

• Sedentary lifestyle
• High-fat, low-fiber diet
• Heavy tobacco and/or alcohol use
• Frequent us of medications such as antacids and antidiarrheals
• Aging
• Stress
• Abundance of Dairy rich foods
• Lack of water
• Genetics
• Pre-existing illnesses
• Food allergies and sensitivities

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