Why do ultra-processed foods affect your gut (and potentially increase colon cancer risk)?

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We’ve all heard that fresh foods are best for us, and that processed foods should be limited – but WHY are processed foods, especially ULTRA-processed foods, damaging for our health (and especially our gut)?

From a gastrointestinal standpoint, ultra-processed foods don’t go through your digestive system well – and can potentially increase your chances of colon cancer. (Learn about your colon cancer risk factors!)

What is “ultra-processed” food?

Processed foods go through a “process” to make them what they are, different from their natural state. Some processed foods are made by adding sugar or salt, like canned vegetables, with minimal added ingredients.

Ultra-processed foods, however, are processed much more. Think foods that have added colors, fats, preservatives and more…all the things that make them taste different and last on the shelf longer. They are made mostly from other substances besides just the main ingredient – and include TV dinners, hot dogs, fast food, and packaged snacks.

These ultra-processed foods are therefore also substantially higher in sodium, fat, sugar, calories, and more from all the additives.

What’s so bad about ultra-processed foods?

Because of all their added ingredients, ultra-processed foods lose their nutritional value and trade it in for increasing all those things we DON’T want in our diets.

One study claims that as a whole, the calories consumed nationally are mainly from ultra-processed foods (at 58 percent) …and that 90 percent of the energy we get is from these added sugars.

Our body gets overloaded by all the processed foods, which can lead to inflammation and an increase in other medical conditions. Because our body is designed to digest natural foods and doesn’t know what to do with all the other stuff it has to digest.

(And we’re seeing that a low-fat, low inflammation diet may help prevent colon cancer!

Since we use food as fuel, the nutrients we get from what we eat impacts our health – so we want as many nutrients as we can get from foods in their natural element.

When we can’t get all the right nutrients our body wants, it can’t run the way it’s supposed to. Just like putting bad gas in your car.

Do ultra-processed foods increase instances of colon cancer?

According to NBC News, new studies indicate that diets high in ultra-processed foods (around 9 servings per day) had a 29-percent higher risk of colorectal cancer than subjects who only had 3 servings of ultra-processed foods per day. In addition, the study showed the group with the highest consumption of ultra-processed foods had around 80 percent of their daily calories from those foods – and the U.S. average is around 57 percent. (Still a lot!)

There are still lots of questions about what impact diet has on causing colon cancer, but we know we want to fuel our bodies in the best way possible, regardless.

How can I get my more nutrients (and less processed foods) in my diet?

These 5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut are a good way to start getting fewer processed foods – but always talk to your doctor when making changes in your diet (especially if you have or think you may have Celiac Disease.)

When you’re out to dinner at a restaurant, you can also make slight changes with these 5 Easy Hacks to Create Healthy Habits When Eating Out – without taking away from your dining experience.

And whenever you can, opt for foods that don’t come out of a box. It takes time to make the changes, and time to plan for meals that aren’t as quick as processed ones, but your body will thank you!

Get your gut in tip-top shape at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.

Rumbling in your tummy? Find out why. When foods don’t sit well, we can help you figure out why and get you healthier and feeling better! Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. today to schedule an appointment.

Week Highlights Bone and Joint Conditions

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Many people who suffer from chronic joint pain often give up sports or activities they enjoy with friends and family.

Severe long-term pain and physical disability may result from bone and joint conditions, according to the U.S. Bone & Joint Initiative.

Conditions like arthritis, back pain, fractures, osteoporosis, sports trauma and other ailments may limit a person’s mobility and dexterity.

Having limited mobility often leads to early work retirement, lower levels of well-being and reduced participation in society, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Bone and Joint Action Week is observed Oct. 12-20. This week raises awareness worldwide about prevention, disease management and treatment for several conditions.

Musculoskeletal conditions are predicted to increase unless new treatments and preventive measures are found, according to the U.S. Bone & Joint Initiative. Reasons for the rise in cases include increasing life expectancy and risk factor changes.

With the right care and treatment, many people can return to an active lifestyle without suffering in pain.

Billions Suffer With Pain, Lack of Mobility

Musculoskeletal conditions affect more than 1.7 billion people worldwide, according to WHO.

Bone and Joint Action Week brings attention to some of these conditions, including osteoarthritis and childhood injuries and disorders.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease that causes pain, disability and loss of function. The disease occurs most frequently in the hands, hips and knees.

World Arthritis Day is Oct. 12. About 58.5 million U.S. adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Some forms of arthritis affect only one joint, whereas many affect more than one. Without treatment, arthritis may cause long-term damage to joints.

Another observance is Oct. 19 — World Pediatric Bone and Joint Day. Every year, about 19 million children receive medical treatment for a musculoskeletal-related condition. These conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, bone fractures, tendinitis, developmental dysplasia of the hip, muscular dystrophy and osteoporosis.

Contributing factors of musculoskeletal disorders in children include car accidents, playground accidents, sports injuries, obesity, poor posture and vitamin D deficiency.

People who experienced a childhood bone or joint injury often suffer from chronic pain, stiffness or limited mobility as adults. People often experience chronic pain in their back, hips, knees or shoulders.

Treatment Options Available

Several options are available to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain.

The Arthritis Foundation suggests several tips to manage pain and maintain your mobility at home. The first tip is to take any prescription or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs recommended by your doctor.

Managing your weight also is key because excess weight can cause more pressure on the weight-bearing joints and increase pain.

Weight management may be easier if you stay active with activities like walking, water aerobics at your local gym or yoga. These low-impact activities can help reduce joint pain and improve flexibility, balance and strength, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Cardiovascular exercise, like biking on a stationary bike, also helps keep your heart in shape.

The Arthritis Foundation also advises that maintaining a positive attitude may significantly boost your ability to cope with pain. To keep your spirits high, consider engaging in a hobby or a stress-free activity with your loved ones.

While helpful in the short term, medications, exercises and activities may not relieve your chronic joint pain or maintain your mobility as you get older.

An orthopedic procedure, like arthroscopy, or even total joint replacement surgery may be your long-term solution. Orthopedic expertise is available by contacting our group of nationwide doctors.

Schedule Procedure Before Deductible Resets

If you are experiencing severe joint pain, don’t delay your care. Our procedures and treatments are performed on an outpatient basis. This means no prolonged hospital stay and more time at home to recover.

Have you already met your insurance deductible? To take full advantage of your health plan benefits, schedule your procedure before the end of the calendar year. Your deductible will reset in January, so contact your insurance company to verify your status. Then, call to schedule an appointment for an exam.

Undergoing an orthopedic procedure will help to relieve or eliminate your pain and restore your range of motion. Then, you can return to your active lifestyle and enjoy spending time with your friends and family.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy or GI Procedure Before Year End

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As the calendar year closes, assessing whether you have utilized your healthcare benefits to the maximum is wise. If you have met your deductible, now is an excellent time to schedule a GI procedure or screening colonoscopy before the year ends.

Colonoscopy Is a Lifesaving Procedure

Getting screened for colon cancer may not be at the top of your to-do list, but it deserves to be a priority. Colonoscopy can detect and prevent colon cancer because your doctor can remove polyps before they become cancerous. In fact, the five-year survival rate is 90 percent when colonoscopy detects colon cancer early.

Some patients feel anxiety about a colonoscopy because it involves a bowel prep, sedation and the need to take time off work. While preparation is necessary to ensure that the colon is empty, colonoscopy is a simple, painless procedure. A gastroenterologist examines the lining of the colon for pre-cancerous polyps while you are sedated for approximately 30 minutes. If polyps are found during the procedure, they can be removed and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Other methods of colon cancer screenings like flexible sigmoidoscopy, double contrast barium enema or stool tests do not offer the same benefits. A positive result means you would have to get a follow-up colonoscopy. Therefore, it’s best to go with a colonoscopy — the gold standard for colon cancer screening.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy at an ASC

Everyone wants to maximize their healthcare dollars. Most health insurance deductibles reset in January, so scheduling procedures and screenings are advantageous after you have met your deductible.

Most insurance plans cover a screening colonoscopy, but there may be additional fees for anesthesia and the facility where the test is performed. You can usually save money by scheduling your procedure at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) because there are fewer overhead costs. In addition, ASCs usually offer convenient parking and a more comfortable setting.

If you are primarily concerned about cost, there is good news. The Affordable Care Act requires most private insurers to cover the costs of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening tests. As of May 31, 2022, one crucial guideline change is that most patients will not pay out-of-pocket costs for a follow-up colonoscopy after a positive stool test. Plans vary, so it is essential to contact your provider to determine your coverage.

Know Your Risk for Colon Cancer

It is important to be familiar with your risk for colon cancer. Most cases of colon cancer are not hereditary. In fact, heredity only accounts for about 5 to 10 percent of colon cancer cases. Most adults are at average risk for colon cancer, but you are considered to be at increased risk if you have any of the following:

  • A family history of rectal or colon cancer or precancerous polyps
  • Previous colon cancer or colon polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
  • Lynch syndrome
  • Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

New Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

Young-onset colon cancer is becoming more prevalent every year. Because the average age of colon cancer onset is decreasing, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises that adults at average risk for colon cancer should begin screening at age 45. However, if you have a family history of colon cancer, precancerous polyps or certain genetic cancer syndromes, you may need to begin screening earlier.

Everyone is at risk for colon cancer, but you can take precautions to lower your risk:

  • Avoid smoking.
  • Use alcohol in moderation.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce intake of red meat and processed foods.
  • Increase servings of fresh fruit and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy at Age 45

Don’t leave any of your healthcare benefits on the table. Contact your insurance company to verify your status and call today to schedule your colonoscopy or GI procedure at an ASC.

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Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Before Year Ends

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Have you had an eye exam lately? If you haven’t, you should consider making an appointment soon. You can maximize your health insurance benefits by scheduling a comprehensive eye exam or eye procedure before the end of the year.

What is a healthcare deductible?

One of the best ways to stretch your healthcare dollars is to schedule appointments and procedures after you meet your annual deductible. Your healthcare deductible is the amount you must pay for covered medical procedures before your insurance company begins to contribute.

Most deductibles reset on Jan. 1, so now is the time to evaluate whether you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam or cataract surgery. If you meet your deductible, your out-of-pocket responsibility for an elective eye procedure could be considerably less.

Reasons to visit your ophthalmologist before the year ends

Here are three reasons you should visit your ophthalmologist before the calendar year ends:

Make sure your prescription is updated.

Vision changes are usually gradual, so you probably will not notice if your vision is changing or getting blurry. Your ophthalmologist will check your visual acuity and assess whether your current prescription needs adjusting.

Maintain your eye health.

Are you experiencing eye pain, blurry vision, cloudy vision or dry eyes? These symptoms can be indicative of a chronic eye condition like glaucoma, cataracts or dry eye syndrome. Your doctor can make a diagnosis during a comprehensive eye exam and refer you to a specialist for further testing. Ignoring symptoms of eye disease can permanently affect your eyesight and lead to vision loss.

During a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor will examine you for eye diseases such as the following.

Cataracts: a clouding of the eye lens that will affect all adults as they age

Glaucoma: a family of eye diseases that affect the optic nerve

Macular degeneration: a condition that destroys a person’s sharp, central vision

Use your flexible spending account (FSA) dollars before they expire.

Using an FSA account is cost effective because you can use pre-tax dollars for approved healthcare procedures and products. These dollars will not roll over into next year, so you must “use them or lose them.” You can use FSA funds for new eyeglasses, contacts, prescription sunglasses or even cataract surgery.

Why you should schedule an eye procedure at an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC)

If your ophthalmologist suggests you need to schedule an eye procedure or surgery, you can do so at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). An ASC is a less-expensive option and offers exceptional patient care.

An ASC is often smaller than a hospital, which makes it easier to navigate, and it usually has convenient parking. In addition, most procedures at an ASC will be more cost effective because they don’t have all the overhead costs of a hospital. Finally, an ASC facility is dedicated to specific procedures like cataract surgery rather than emergency procedures, so your appointment is less likely to get delayed or rescheduled.

Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist

Have you met your deductible already? Schedule your procedure before the end of the year to take full advantage of your health plan’s benefits. Your deductible will reset soon, so contact your insurance company to verify your status.

Actors “Lead From Behind” With Colonoscopy Screenings

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A simple bet between friends — and colonoscopy screenings — may have saved the lives of actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

The co-owners of the Wrexham Association Football Club in Wales made a friendly wager, which Reynolds ultimately lost. McElhenney bet that if he learned to speak Welsh, Reynolds would publicly broadcast his first colonoscopy to raise awareness regarding colon cancer.

The actors’ screening video launched the Lead From Behind campaign in partnership with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance (CCA). The campaign’s focus is to “help people learn that colon cancer is ‘The Preventable Cancer’” through timely screenings.

Research shows more young people are getting colon cancer. Now, leading healthcare agencies recommend screenings begin at 45 for those at average risk.

Both Reynolds (Deadpool) and McElhenney (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) are 45.

“Part of being this age is getting a colonoscopy,” Reynolds said in the video. “It’s a simple step that could literally — I mean literally — save your life.”

Colonoscopy Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer is the second-deadliest cancer in the US. But it doesn’t have to be. This type of cancer is preventable through timely screenings.

Colonoscopy is the only screening method that can both detect and prevent colorectal cancer. The disease often begins as a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. Through a colonoscopy, polyps can be both detected and removed before they become cancerous.

Reynolds underwent his colonoscopy first. Following the procedure, Dr. Jonathan LaPook, his gastroenterologist, praised Reynolds’ thorough bowel prep. This preparation helped LaPook find and remove an “extremely subtle polyp” on the right side of Reynolds’ colon.

“This was potentially lifesaving for you,” LaPook said. “This is exactly why you do this.”

Later, Dr. Leo Treyzon, also a gastroenterologist, told McElhenney he found three polyps during his colonoscopy.

“They were small,” Dr. Treyzon said. “They were not a big deal, but [it was] certainly a good idea that we found them and removed them.”

The doctors recommended the actors repeat the colonoscopy in a couple of years.

Young People Are at Risk

The CCA reports one in 24 people gets colon cancer. Colorectal cancer is not just a disease of the elderly. One in 260 people will get colon cancer before they turn 50. This is called early-onset or young-onset cancer.

Research indicates that people who are diagnosed when younger than 50 are more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis.

For these reasons, screenings should begin at 45 for those at average risk of developing colorectal cancer. Individuals should be screened even if they don’t have symptoms. People with digestive symptoms should be considered for colonoscopy regardless of age.

Don’t Delay Your Screening

By 2030, colon cancer is predicted to be the top cancer killer for people younger than 50, according to the CCA.

If you are 45 or older, don’t delay your colorectal cancer screening. The five-year survival rate is about 90 percent when found at an early stage before it has spread to other organs.

The Affordable Care Act requires most private insurance to cover the costs of colorectal cancer screening tests. Plans vary, so it’s important to contact your healthcare provider to verify your coverage.

If you do not have insurance, there are resources to learn about a low-cost or free colonoscopy. Some resources include the CCA Helpline, ColonoscopyAssist™ or your state’s health and human services or department of health.

A colon cancer screening may save your life or the life of a loved one. Our doctors perform colonoscopy screenings at surgery centers around the country. Search for a gastroenterologist in your area and schedule a colonoscopy.

When to Visit a Pediatric GI Specialist

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When we consider the type of person more likely to need treatment for a digestive problem, we usually think of a mature adult or those of advanced age. As much as age is a factor in the advancement of some gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, the truth is that kids are not immune to gastrointestinal (GI) problems — and can be more vulnerable to certain digestive issues.

If you believe your child may have a pediatric intestinal concern, the GI specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates may be able to help bring them back to health. Here is some key information to note when deciding if you should consult one of our pediatric gastroenterologists in New Orleans, LA.

How is a child’s gastrointestinal system different from an adult’s?

Similar to every other system present in the body, the gastrointestinal system takes some time to mature following birth. GI problems in babies are quite common during this period of development. For example, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), muscle tissue at the bottom of the esophagus that helps prevent stomach acid from flowing upward, is usually not completely formed in newborns, leading to problems with acid reflux.

Because proper nourishment is strongly linked to a child’s growth and development, it’s essential that you request a consultation with a pediatric GI physician if you feel your child is experiencing gastro problems. Pediatric gastrointestinal issues are more common than you might anticipate, with some even beginning at birth.

Which pediatric gastro complications are most commonly experienced?

Although children could be impacted by many of the digestive issues that are typical in adults, certain types are more likely to occur than others. Some of the more frequent issues involve:

  • CVS (cyclic vomiting syndrome): This disorder causes excessive vomiting episodes that happen in frequent cycles and is usually observed in kids.
  • Constipation: Constipation involves difficulty when passing stools.
  • Abdominal distress: Several minor GI problems (like gas) will often work themselves out over time, but persistent or excessive pain warrants a visit with a pediatric GI provider.
  • IBD (inflammatory bowel disease): IBD includes GI issues like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
  • Food intolerances: Among kids, this often includes lactose intolerance (difficulty processing lactose products) and celiac disease (an autoimmune reaction to gluten that damages the duodenum or small intestine).
  • GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease): GERD involves the scarring and inflammation of the esophagus caused by recurrent acid reflux. This illness is very common among infants and newborns and is frequently evidenced by vomiting, hiccups, gagging, and an aversion to eating food.

It’s essential to manage gastrointestinal issues in infants, toddlers, and newborns, as these conditions could interfere with a child’s ability to absorb the nutrients they require for growth and development. The GI physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can help you understand your child’s illness and explore the treatment options.

When is the right time to bring my child to a pediatric GI provider?

A proactive approach is generally recommended with any health issue. Even a common GI problem, such as diarrhea, can point to a greater issue if it occurs periodically. There are several clear indications that you should consult a pediatric gastrointestinal specialist, though:

  • Blood in the stool
  • Slow or little to no growth regardless of getting adequate nourishment
  • Repeat vomiting or blood present in vomit
  • Frequent diarrhea (loose, watery stools) or constipation

If you notice any of the above issues, please set up an appointment with a gastroenterology provider immediately.

Get pediatric gastro care in New Orleans, LA

At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, our GI providers offer treatment for a variety of pediatric digestive concerns and are devoted to assisting our patients so they can thrive. If you are concerned or worried about your child’s GI health and are seeking a pediatric gastrointestinal specialist in New Orleans, LA you can trust, contact our team today to request a consultation.

What Is the Best Way to Teach Your Kid(s) Good Digestive Habits?

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In the high-speed world, it is often tricky to get some time to slow down and focus on our physical health — especially our digestive health. It is sometimes easier to just get a to-go dinner as we rush the kids to the next football game or ballet practice. But as we know, our kids are surveying and learning from everything we do. That is why it is important that we dedicate ourselves to improving our kid’s digestive wellness.

Digestive health is important for the overall condition of our bodies, and there are many things we could do to enhance the digestive wellness of our youngsters. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we are committed to assisting everyone in your family so they can experience ideal digestive health for a lifetime. Read below as our New Orleans, LA gastroenterologists clarify how you might educate your children on wholesome digestive behaviors.

Why is it essential to improve my child’s GI health?

Gastrointestinal wellness can help improve a child’s complete health. GI disorders can involve many symptoms, including acid reflux, indigestion, heartburn, and bloating. It is essential to mirror strong eating behaviors in kids to lessen and control GI symptoms or even prevent more major issues in the future. To help the youngest people in the family understand healthy eating habits for a lifetime of GI wellness, our team is thrilled to provide the following advice below.

How can I help my child follow healthy eating behaviors?

There are many ways to help your child down a successful road to GI health. Some of the optimal ways to make sure you’re nurturing a healthy eater is to solidify good boundaries for them to adopt. You may also encourage your kid to:

  • Eat junk food in moderation.
  • Eat food at a well-balanced rate.
  • Sustain a healthy diet.
  • Drink lots of water other than soda or other sugary drinks (this may encompass things like juices, as they typically contain a wealth of sugar).

If you want to learn more about what specific foods or drinks to include in your kid’s diet to foster good digestive health, meet with our providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. We would be delighted to assist your child in the desired direction during an individualized meeting.

Are there alternative methods to improve children’s digestive health?

Although there are several ways to boost your child’s GI health, the key is to help them incorporate proper eating habits. There’s an additional piece that is key for regular gastrointestinal functioning — verifying persistent physical activity. Exercise improves the blood circulation to the digestive system muscles, assisting with food moving through the digestive tract. When we meld together healthy eating beliefs with exercise, our bodies can function at their peak performance. It is beneficial to set good examples for the children in your family to abide by and to ensure all members of your family get enough physical activity each day. Discover ways to incorporate exercise in the household and have fun while also being active and boosting the GI health of the whole family.

Locate digestive care for children in New Orleans, LA

If you’re looking for ways to enhance your child’s physical wellness and GI health, you can count on the experienced and considerate GI physicians at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. With the patient-centered approach we take toward medicine, we put the care of your children above all else. We hope to assist them in reaching their full power in GI wellness. To schedule a consultation with a provider who supports children’s GI care in New Orleans, LA, please contact our practice location nearest you. Our GI providers are here to help offer you advice and guide you and your child on the journey to ideal GI health.

3 Reasons a Surgical Center Is Better Than Hospital for a Colonoscopy

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You’ve heard that you’re supposed to get a colonoscopy (at the age of 45, or sooner if you have risk factors) – but did you know that you DON’T have to have a colonoscopy at a hospital? That, in fact, you can have a better experience by not having it at a hospital?

Unless you have a health condition that requires you to have access to a full-service hospital, you’ll likely be able to have your colonoscopy at a surgical center instead…with less hassle. Surgery centers have been performing safe, high-quality outpatient services for more than 40 years – benefitting you, the patient.

Here are 3 Reasons Having your Colonoscopy at a Surgical Center is Better than Having it at a Hospital:

It saves you money.

That’s right: the cost of an outpatient procedure performed at an outpatient surgical center (like Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.) instead of at a hospital usually costs a lot less.

For instance, the average cost of a colonoscopy at a hospital is $3,059.07.

In contrast, the average cost of a colonoscopy at a surgical center is $1,590.08.

That’s nearly HALF the cost – for the exact same procedure.

We provide safe, quality procedures the same as hospitals do – maintaining our high standards. Our center is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, and we are also CMS certified.

When you’re paying out of pocket (and even if insurance picks up the bill), you deserve to know all the costs in what you’re paying for. You’ll find our transparency helpful: We will tell you all the costs up front, without any hidden costs showing up after your procedure.

Convenience.

If you’ve ever had a procedure at a hospital or drove someone to one, you know it’s often a lot of hurry-up-and-wait.

It’s trying to find a parking spot with all the other people coming in for their procedures…and those visiting loved ones at the hospital.

It’s navigating the long hallways, making sure you find the right room and the right waiting room (and park at the right entrance!).

But at our surgery center, we are focused on a limited number of procedures, so it’s much easier to maneuver around here than a typical hospital environment would be.

You won’t have to hurry to get there on time only to have to sit and wait for all the people you encounter to take your paperwork, while they’re taking paperwork from seemingly every other person in the hospital at the same time.

Who wants added stress when they’re going in for a medical procedure? No one.

Personalized, comfortable care.

When you’re having a medical procedure performed, you want to be relaxed and calm and possible. That’s what we want for you, too. When you’re at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., the atmosphere is pleasant and relaxed. Because we offer targeted, specialty services in a smaller setting, it will feel more like home (as much as can be when you’re having your health taken care of!).

Because you aren’t at a hospital with constant rotating staff who are busy taking care of a multitude of patients, you’ll feel more comfortable and receive the personalized care from our dedicated staff.

You won’t feel like a burden for asking any questions, because we’re here for you and ready to answer anything and address any concerns you may have.

Choose Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.

Stop paying too much for healthcare! At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our surgical center can perform outpatient procedures that you may normally get at a hospital – for a much lower cost. Contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy (or have any other of your gastrointestinal issues, including Celiac Disease, looked into) at our Metro Detroit locations.

Common Digestive Conditions in Children (0 –18)

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Having a rumbling tummy or an occasional stomach ache is quite common for children and teens of all ages. But when the pains and aches happen frequently, are you aware of what remedies can help? In the event your child or teenager requires pediatric digestive care in New Orleans, LA, contact our gastroenterology specialists to find a remedy. At Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, we have the experience and knowledge needed to provide personalized treatment options. Read on to learn further details about common childhood digestive disorders, along with a few insightful tricks and tips.

How frequently are children impacted by GI conditions?

As stated by the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, 40 to 50% of appointments with a pediatric gastroenterologist are due to functional GI disorders. Constipation, or encopresis, arises in approximately 10 to 25% of children who are advised to visit a pediatric GI doctor, and approximately 17% of high school-age patients deal with symptoms representative of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Our New Orleans, LA gastroenterology specialists aim to help your family determine solutions for pediatric GI conditions.

What kinds of GI disorders are common in teens, children, and infants?

A sample of the pediatric GI disorders that are commonly identified in teenagers, children, and infants include the following:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Frequent heartburn in infants and children could lead to a GERD diagnosis. Common signs and symptoms are burping, lack of a desire to eat, vomiting, abdominal pain, hiccups, and choking or gagging.

Lactose intolerance: This treatable issue is among the GI disorders that can affect teens, children, and infants. It happens when a child’s body is unable to metabolize the sugar present in dairy, known as lactose. Loose or watery stools, a stomach ache, gas, or bloating after ingesting dairy products are all indications of this condition. Taking lactase enzymes before eating dairy products can allow the body to process lactose properly.

Constipation: Constipation develops when stool is dry, large, and/or difficult to pass. Among children, constipation can cause them to avoid going to the bathroom. Not having regular bowel movements could result in more constipation and additional gastrointestinal discomfort.

IBD (inflammatory bowel disease): This digestive health concern may develop in teenagers and children. It describes two individual GI conditions. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation in the large intestine (colon) while Crohn’s disease can impact all parts of the digestive tract. Common signs and symptoms of both conditions may involve watery or bloody stool and stomach pain.

Celiac disease: Celiac disease is a digestive health issue that arises when an adverse reaction happens in the wake of ingesting gluten. Gluten is a protein present in barley, rye, and wheat. If the disease is left uncontrolled, it could damage the small intestine and prevent your child’s body from absorbing the necessary nutrients from food.

EoE (eosinophilic esophagitis): This disease develops in the esophagus. It can result in chronic allergic inflammatory disease. Kids can experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, and a burning sensation similar to acid reflux. Additionally, they may gag frequently and report swallowing difficulties.

What can parents do to promote good digestive health in children?

We know that as a parent, you want the best for your family, from planning doctor appointments to ensuring they eat a healthy and balanced diet. Some ways to help your child maintain GI health are to incorporate these suggestions into their day-to-day life:

  • Sit down as a family to eat: Strive to make mealtime pleasant for every member of your family and designate a family mealtime. Doing so provides consistency and stability, helping to ensure the time spent sharing family meals is enjoyable for all. Allowing your toddlers to feed themselves during mealtimes is also a good way to help them develop a healthy association with food.
  • Monitor portion sizes: The amount of food eaten can impact how food is processed and digested. If a child eats in excess, it could cause problems with digestion and result in stomach upset.
  • Slow down when eating: We understand that between after-school activities and spending time with friends, it is easy for your teen to quickly snag a snack from the pantry before heading out the door. Encourage them to take time to enjoy the food they consume to prevent digestive upset.

To learn more tips on how to help your child enjoy good GI health, request a consultation with us at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our digestive health providers will partner with you to find an approach that meets your family’s needs and lifestyle.

Find care for pediatric digestive conditions in New Orleans, LA

Children’s gastrointestinal issues do not have to cause ongoing, unmanageable symptoms. You can access solutions for everyone in the family when GI concerns arise. For further details about the common GI issues affecting children, request a consultation at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates. Our gastroenterology team proudly offers pediatric digestive care in New Orleans, LA that can help your child experience optimal GI health as they grow.

Prevent Joint Injury by Resting After Exercise

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Exercising is essential to healthy living, but intense exercise without adequate rest can cause joint pain and lead to long-term injury.

Can Exercise Worsen Joint Pain?

When managing arthritis, one of the best decisions you can make is maintaining a healthy weight. Added body weight puts excessive strain on the joints, especially your knees. For example, being only 10 pounds overweight places 30 to 60 additional pounds of force on the knee with every step.

If your doctor has suggested increasing your exercise to lose weight and decrease joint strain, it’s important to begin slowly with moderate physical activity. The same workouts that burn calories can wear down your joints, destroy cartilage and cause joint injury.

Signs of Overexercising

“Too much of a good thing” can definitely apply to exercise. However, overexercising can be just as detrimental as not exercising because overtraining can lead to permanent joint damage.

Here are several signs that you are pushing too hard in your exercise regimen:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Not feeling as strong
  • Exercise stops being invigorating
  • Lacking physical performance
  • Difficulty reaching fitness goals
  • Changes in metabolic function
  • Poor sleep
  • Mood swings
  • Feeling more tired than you normally do

Low-impact Exercises That Prevent Joint Pain

Effective exercise does not have to result in profuse sweating and breathlessness. Adults between 18 and 65 should engage in moderate exercise for 30 minutes five times per week or vigorous exercise for 20 minutes three times per week. It is also important to do strength training twice per week.

To be healthy, you don’t need to run long distances or attend boot camp fitness classes. Why not consider some of these low-impact activities? All these exercises will increase your heart rate and help you burn fat, but they are gentle on your joints:

  • Swimming
  • Water aerobics
  • Indoor or outdoor biking
  • Pilates
  • Yoga
  • Dancing
  • Gardening and yard work

The Importance of Rest Days Between Workouts

Rest days are just as important as workout days. Rest days help relieve muscle pain and soreness and repair and build muscle tissue. Resting also replenishes the body’s energy and allows the mind to rest. On rest days, make sure you drink as much water as you do on training days and get eight hours of sleep at night to give your body the maximum benefit of the recovery (Medical Xpress).

Schedule a Consultation With an Orthopedist

Take some time to create some health and fitness goals this month. National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is Sept. 28. This is an important day for all adults to remember the importance of health and fitness in our lives.

Are you having joint pain in your knees, hips, shoulders or other joints? You don’t have to accept joint pain as a part of everyday life. Instead, make an appointment with your orthopedist to discuss managing your joint pain. This could include an exercise plan, nutrition modification or even a procedure to alleviate joint discomfort.