Do you ever find your stomach tied up in knots during stressful situations? You’re not alone. Many people experience what’s often referred to as a “nervous stomach,” where emotional stress or anxiety manifests as physical symptoms in the digestive system — but there could also be underlying medical conditions that feel heightened when you’re in a stressful situation.

What you could be brushing off as a “nervous stomach” could be a sign of something else…and the doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. can help determine the cause of your discomfort.

What is a Nervous Stomach?

A nervous stomach refers to gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and changes in bowel habits that are triggered or exacerbated by emotional stress or anxiety.

Symptoms of a Nervous Stomach:

• Stomach Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to sharp, cramping pains in the upper abdomen.
• Bloating: Feeling of fullness and swelling in the abdomen, often accompanied by gas.
• Nausea: Queasiness or the urge to vomit, which may or may not lead to actual vomiting.
• Changes in Bowel Habits: This may include diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two.
• Loss of Appetite: Feeling full quickly or having a decreased desire to eat.

How Can a Gastrointestinal Doctor Help?

If you’re experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of a nervous stomach, it’s essential to seek help from a gastrointestinal doctor at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. — because those symptoms are also symptoms of a wide range of gastrointestinal issues that we can diagnose and treat.

During bouts of nervous stomach, your symptoms may be exacerbated, and you may notice them more intricately. There could be conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Lactose Intolerance, GERD, or more underlying that your body is asking you to pay attention to.

Here’s how we can help:

Accurate Diagnosis: A gastrointestinal doctor can conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Personalized Treatment Plan: Once you have a diagnosis, we can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: We will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan if anything isn’t getting you back to tip-top shape. Regular follow-up appointments allow them to track changes in your symptoms and ensure that you’re receiving the most effective care.

Get Treated Today

A nervous stomach can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, but it’s important to remember that help is available — and it may be covering up another gastrointestinal condition that can be treated.

By seeking assistance from a gastrointestinal doctor, you can receive an accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and support to manage your symptoms effectively. Don’t suffer in silence — reach out for help and take control of your digestive health today.

Got questions? Schedule your appointment with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. today so you can start feeling better.

Are you experiencing abdominal discomfort, bloating, or irregular bowel movements? Are you 45 or older and need a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer? Either way, you can visit us at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, for a thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment – plus, you can go here instead of a hospital for your procedures (which saves you time and money!).

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., we specialize in determining what’s causing your intestinal issues, for whatever your gastrointestinal issue is – from heartburn, Celiac Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Colon Cancer, Lactose Intolerance, and everything in between.

Here’s why scheduling an appointment with our specialized team is the right choice for your digestive well-being:

1. Comprehensive Care

Our team of board-certified gastroenterologists specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of digestive conditions. Whether you’re dealing with abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or anything else (in addition to other non-digestive symptoms that may be related), we offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs so your colon can be in tip-top shape.

2. Expertise in Gastrointestinal Disorders

From acid reflux to swallowing difficulties and gastrointestinal bleeding, our specialists have the knowledge and experience to pinpoint the underlying causes of your symptoms. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques to provide accurate assessments and develop effective treatment plans, so you start feeling better.

3. Colonoscopies

Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE – and regular colonoscopies are essential for early detection and prevention. Our clinic offers comprehensive colonoscopy services in a comfortable and convenient setting, not a hospital, and the costs are often a third of what it would be in a hospital for the same procedures.

4. Cost-Savings

Unless you have a health condition that requires access to a full-service hospital, your surgical procedures can be performed at our surgical center. As a result, you’ll generally save at least half the cost than those performed at a hospital – all while still receiving the same quality of care.

5. Comfortable Environment

Unlike hospitals, our practice focuses exclusively on gastrointestinal care. This specialization allows us to offer streamlined appointments, shorter wait times, convenient parking, a smaller and more comfortable atmosphere, and a more personalized experience for our patients. You’ll receive attentive care from our dedicated team of specialists every step of the way.

Schedule Your Way to Better Health Now!

Don’t let digestive issues hold you back from living your best life. Schedule an appointment with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan and take the first step toward better digestive health. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

You may think the uncomfortable feeling you get after eating, or the bloat that’s seems to happen randomly is just a part of life – but it could be a lesser-known digestive disorder that’s wreaking havoc on your gut.

While conditions like colon cancer and the importance of colonoscopies often take center stage in gastrointestinal health discussions, other disorders can be causing you distress…so it’s time to find out the causes and management strategies so you can start feeling better!

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits without any evidence of underlying damage. It’s estimated to affect up to 15 percent of people, yet many remain undiagnosed or undertreated.

Symptoms can vary widely from person to person, making diagnosis challenging. However, lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and stress management techniques can often help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with IBS.

Talk to your doctor about ALL your symptoms (no matter how seemingly minor or sporadic) so we can help you feel better.

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that cause chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics.

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, and often involves deep layers of the intestinal wall.

Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, primarily affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon.

Treatment typically involves medication to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent complications, although surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

If you let us know all the symptoms you ever encounter, we can help properly diagnose and treat your digestive conditions.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with Celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system essentially attacks the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining.

Celiac disease has a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss – and many are symptoms beyond what many may think are related to a gut issue.

Treatment includes a gluten-free diet – but we have to make sure that’s what’s going on so we can be sure to treat everything properly, in case there are other conditions as well.

Managing Digestive Disorders:

As with many health conditions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps ease symptoms of digestive disorders.

Most importantly, a proper diagnosis from a gastrointestinal doctor is imperative to check all possibilities and provide a treatment plan that not only makes you feel better, but reduces the amount of damage done to your body.

Make an Appointment Today

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich., we can test you to determine if you have Celiac Disease, IBS, Crohn’s, or any other digestive disorder. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take care of your gut health!

Colon cancer used to be something “older” people had to think about – but now there is an increasing number of people younger than 50 who are diagnosed with colon cancer. During Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March, we’re asking you to arm yourself with knowledge and spread the word – so we can turn these numbers back around.

Because there’s good news: COLON CANCER IS PREVENTABLE.

By being aware of your body, knowing the possibilities and risk factors of colon cancer, and going to the doctor, you can turn the statistics around and prevent colon cancer.

Use these crucial tips for young people to help prevent colon cancer:

1. Understand the Risk Factors

Do you know if you’re at risk for colon cancer? Risk factors include:

• Family history
• Certain genetic conditions
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits
• Underlying medical conditions (like inflammatory bowel disease)

Ask relatives for your family history of colon cancer and other disorders, and listen if someone mentions in passing anything about digestive concerns, polyps, colonoscopies, or colon cancer.

Learn more about Colon Cancer Facts and Risk Factors, and schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor if you have any of these risk factors to determine proactive measures you can take.

2. Pay Attention to Symptoms

Be vigilant about any unusual symptoms you experience, such as:

• Changes in bowel habits
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• ANY other digestive symptoms

Even beyond that, pay attention to ANY symptoms you have – because you may have adjusted to something that’s been going on for a while and accepted it.

Those symptoms may be a warning sign, and the earlier symptoms are looked into, the easier it is to prevent and stop colon cancer in its tracks.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

What you eat fuels your body…and can also fuel disease. Your healthy diet should consist of:

• Plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains instead of white flour
• Fiber to promote digestive health
• Lean proteins instead of red meat
• Limiting processed foods, red meat, and food high in saturated fats

Learn more about Why Ultra-Processed Foods Affect Your Gut and Can Possibly Increase Risk of Colon Cancer, and talk to your doctor about taking steps to alter your diet where needed.

4. Stay Active

Physically moving helps keep everything in your digestive system moving, and helps to keep you healthy overall. Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and help reduce your risk of colon cancer.

Aim to walk every day, and incorporate more physical activity as often as you can. Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is right for you – including moderate and vigorous exercise.

5. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption

Among its other detriments, smoking has also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

Additionally, Alcohol Increases Your Risk of Colon Cancer, so be sure to eliminate excessive drinking and limit alcohol consumption as much as possible.

Be aware that if you do partake in either of these, you have risk factors for colon cancer.

6. Get a Colonoscopy

While regular colonoscopy screening for colon cancer typically begins at age 50, younger individuals with certain risk factors may need to have a colonoscopy sooner.

Talk to your doctor about your colon cancer risk factors – and any digestive discomforts you may have, no matter how seemingly minor – and discuss when you should begin colon cancer screenings.

7. Prioritize Regular Check-Ups

Even if you feel healthy, it’s crucial to schedule regular check-ups with your doctor – keeping digestive concerns, risk factors, and colon cancer in the regular discussion.

These appointments allow for early detection of any potential health issues, including colon cancer, which makes it easier to treat.

Visit Your Gastrointestinal Doctor

During and beyong Colon Cancer Awareness Month, be sure that If you have ANY symptoms or risk factors, no matter your age, you schedule an appointment with your doctor. At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our team of knowledgeable doctors will assess your symptoms and develop the best course of treatment and prevention for you. Schedule your appointment today!

Colon cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in men younger than 50 – and the second leading cause for women in the same age group, according to newly-released statistics from the American Cancer Society. But here’s the thing: Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE.

Take these steps to heart (especially the first one) to help stop colon cancer in its tracks:

Screening Saves Lives

A colonoscopy (a type of colon cancer screening) can PREVENT colon and colorectal cancer by detecting precancerous polyps. Then your doctor can remove those polyps before they turn into cancer. If you are over 45, have risk factors, or have personal or family history, you need to have a colonoscopy.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

According to the American Cancer Society, the increase in the risk of developing colorectal cancer (and others) is on the rise due to excess body weight. If you are overweight, that may be considered a risk factor for developing colon cancer.

Add Fiber in Your Diet

Fiber can make a HUGE difference to your to colon (and overall) health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Incorporate whole grains, beans, and a variety of colorful produce into your meals whenever possible (and be sure to consult your doctor before making dietary changes).

Limit Red Meat and Processed Foods

High consumption of red meat and ultra-processed foods may potentially lead to an increased risk of colon cancer. Choose lean protein sources such as fish, poultry, and plant-based alternatives – and if you do consume red meat, do so in moderation. Try to eat fresh foods whenever possible, instead of those from a package or can.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity may help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Whether it’s walking, jogging, swimming, or dancing, find activities you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine for a healthier overall you.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption

Did you know that alcohol can increase your risk of developing colon cancer? Excessive alcohol intake has been associated with an elevated risk of colorectal cancer. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.

Drink Water

Water (by itself, without any added sugar or as the “base” of a beverage) is essential for your overall health, and your colon. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the lining of the intestines and supports regular bowel movements, making it harder for precancerous polyps to grow in a healthy colon.

Know Your Family History and Risk Factors

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic conditions –  or other risk factors — discuss it with your doctor to determine what the best prevention measures are for you.

Schedule a Visit with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to visit your gastrointestinal doctor to have a colonoscopy, address any symptoms, and discuss a preventative or treatment plan. Call Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. today to schedule your appointment in Troy, MI. Let’s work together to prevent colon cancer!

Yes, it’s true: A colonoscopy can help PREVENT colon cancer. It’s a relatively simple procedure, with lifesaving benefits, and if you’re over 45 or have risk factors (or a family history of colon cancer), schedule your colonoscopy now to ensure your colon stays healthy.

Not sure exactly what a colonoscopy entails? Here are the details:

1. What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a 30-minute medical procedure that allows a gastroenterologist to examine the inner lining of the colon and rectum. It involves using a long, flexible tube equipped with a camera, known as a colonoscope, to detect abnormalities, such as polyps or tumors.

2. Why is a Colonoscopy Essential?

Early detection is key in preventing colon cancer, one of the most common and preventable forms of cancer (check out Colon Cancer Facts here). A colonoscopy can identify precancerous polyps, so your gastroenterologist can remove them before they develop into cancer. The earlier precancerous polyps are detected, the greater reduction of the risk of disease progression.

3. When Should I Schedule a Colonoscopy?

The recommended age to start screening for colon cancer is 45 years old – regardless of if you have any symptoms or not. However, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier. Consult with your gastroenterologist to determine the most appropriate timing for your individual case.

4. How Should I Prepare for a Colonoscopy?

Preparation is a crucial aspect of the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your colonoscopy prep, which often include dietary restrictions and a bowel-cleansing regimen for several days before your colonoscopy (the “cleaner” your gut is, the smoother the process will be). Following these guidelines is essential for a successful and thorough examination so we can see any abnormalities.

5. What Happens During a Colonoscopy?

During the colonoscopy, you will be given sedation to ensure your comfort. The gastroenterologist will gently insert the colonoscope through the rectum and navigate it through the colon. The camera allows for a real-time visual inspection of the colon’s lining, so your doctor can remove any polyps and take samples of any abnormal tissue.

6. Is a Colonoscopy Painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure due to sedation, but not pain. Afterward, you might feel bloated or have mild cramping, but these effects generally subside quickly.

7. How Long Does a Colonoscopy Take?

Generally, you’ll be in our office for about two hours — from check-in to discharge home, including 30 minutes for the colonoscopy.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our staff of knowledgeable and experienced doctors work to maintain your comfort and answer all your questions before, during, and after your colonoscopy. Early detection is vital in preventing colon cancer, and we’re here for you in Troy, MI, to make it simple and convenient to schedule and undergo your colonoscopy. Schedule your appointment today!

Celebrating the holidays often centers around food – so what do you do if you dread attending events because you don’t want acid reflux to rear its head? Take these steps to prevent and relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and GERD during the holidays (and beyond):

1. Mindful Eating

In the midst of holiday feasts, it can be easy to overindulge. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals to prevent excess pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), reducing the likelihood of stomach contents making their way back into the esophagus and causing you pain.

2. Choose Wisely

Avoid triggers such as spicy, acidic, and fatty foods (and the ultra-processed foods that affect your gut) that can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Choose lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

3. Stay Hydrated, BUT Skip Carbonation

Water is your ally in the battle against acid reflux – but steer clear of carbonated beverages, since they can contribute to increased pressure in the stomach, potentially leading to reflux.

4. Time Your Meals

Allow ample time between your last meal and bedtime. Aim for at least two to three hours to give your stomach a chance to empty before lying down, reducing the risk of nighttime reflux.

5. Elevate Your Sleep

Adjust the angle of your sleeping surface by elevating the head of your bed or using a wedge pillow. This slight incline helps gravity keep stomach contents where they belong, easing the likelihood of reflux during the night.

6. Manage Stress

Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or a gentle stroll when holiday stress start creeping in. Stress management contributes not only to your mental well-being but also to your digestive health.

7. Watch the Waistline

Excess weight, especially around the abdominal area, can put additional pressure on the stomach and contribute to acid reflux. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to help keep your gastrointestinal tract running smoothly.

8. Chew (Sugar-Free) Gum

Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize stomach acid. Choose sugar-free gum to avoid adding unnecessary calories.

9. Limit Alcohol Intake

Excessive alcohol consumption can relax the LES, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Moderation is key – and make sure you’re following the other steps mentioned if you’re wanting to consume alcohol.

10. Consult Your Gastroenterologist

If despite your efforts, acid reflux persists, give us a call at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, MI, to schedule an appointment with our team of knowledgeable gastrointestinal doctors. We’ll find out what’s causing your distress and tailor a treatment plan to get you on the path to feeling better.

What you eat can help with colon issues – and going gluten-free can benefit your entire self in a variety of ways.

What is a Gluten-Free Diet?

A gluten-free diet is one that excludes the protein gluten. Gluten is found in grains such as wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives, so in order to follow a gluten-free diet you must avoid foods and products that contain these grains.

Here’s what you can and cannot consume on a gluten-free diet:

Foods to Enjoy:

1. Naturally gluten-free grains: Rice, corn, quinoa, and oats (ensure they are certified gluten-free)
2. Fruits and vegetables
3. Lean proteins: Meat, poultry, fish, and legumes
4. Dairy products (unless they have added thickeners with gluten).

Foods to Avoid:

1. Wheat-based products: Bread, pasta, and most cereals
2. Barley and rye: Beer, malt, and certain types of cereal
3. Processed foods (Many contain hidden sources of gluten, so reading labels is essential.)

The 3 Most Important Things to Know about Going Gluten-Free

Knowing these key aspects will help you successfully navigate a gluten-free lifestyle while maintaining your health and well-being:

1. Understanding What Contains Gluten

It’s crucial to learn which foods and products contain gluten. This includes not only obvious sources like wheat, barley, and rye but also hidden sources in processed foods, sauces, and condiments (because ultra-processed foods can affect your gut health). Reading ingredient labels is essential to avoid accidental gluten consumption.

2. Cross-Contamination Awareness

Cross-contamination can occur when gluten-free foods come into contact with gluten-containing items, such as shared kitchen utensils or cooking surfaces. It’s essential to take precautions to prevent cross-contamination, especially if you have Celiac disease.

3. Balanced Nutrition

Going gluten-free should not mean sacrificing essential nutrients. Make sure to maintain a balanced diet by incorporating gluten-free grains, such as rice and quinoa, and by eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. Consult with your doctor before you make any dietary changes, and ensure you’re getting all the necessary nutrients on a gluten-free diet.

Why Go Gluten-Free?

A gluten-free diet is crucial for individuals diagnosed with Celiac disease.

• Reducing Symptoms. Some individuals experience symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and digestive discomfort when consuming gluten, which highlights the importance of a gluten-free diet to alleviate these symptoms.
• Improved Digestive Health: A gluten-free diet can lead to improved digestive health by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthier gut. This can benefit those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal conditions.
• Reduced Risk of Autoimmune Diseases: Emerging research suggests that gluten may play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. Going gluten-free may help reduce the risk of such conditions or even manage existing autoimmune diseases.
• Weight Management: Many individuals find that a gluten-free diet aids in weight management and may even help with weight loss, as it encourages the consumption of whole, unprocessed foods, which are often leaner and healthier.
• Enhanced Mental Clarity: Some people report improved mental clarity and reduced brain fog on a gluten-free diet. This could be linked to the reduced inflammation and better absorption of nutrients.
• Skin Health: Skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, may improve when gluten is eliminated from the diet.

Find out if a gluten-free diet is right for you

If you suspect you may have Celiac disease or have concerns about your digestive health, schedule a visit with our experienced gastrointestinal doctors at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich. Our team can provide guidance and support in making dietary choices that are best for your health, and diagnose and treat any digestive conditions you may be dealing with.

And 7 Practical Tips to Incorporate More Fiber in Your Daily Meals

You’ve seen commercials, and you’ve heard for years about the importance of fiber, but do you truly understand why it’s CRUCIAL for your gut health – and how to get more of it into your daily meals?

What Is Fiber, Anyway?

To make sure you’re getting enough fiber in your diet, you need to really understand what IS fiber.

Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in plant-based foods – like roughage – that the body can’t digest. Instead of being broken down and absorbed like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, it passes through your digestive system largely intact, providing a range of health benefits along the way.

The two kinds of fiber – soluble and insoluble – provide different benefits.

Soluble Fiber: Dissolves in water, and helps to lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. (Think oats, peas, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, and barley)

Insoluble Fiber: Promotes the movement of everything through your digestive system, and helps with constipation and irregular stools by bulking up waste. (Think whole-wheat flour, wheat bran, nuts, beans, cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes)

Why Does Fiber Matter?

As fiber foods pass through your digestive system, they clean up along the way and make your gut stronger and healthier in a variety of ways, such as:

• Improved Bowel Regularity: Since fiber passes through your system mostly intact, it promotes regular bowel movements by increasing bulk of stool – stimulating colon muscles as it passes through, making it stronger and promoting regular bowel movements.
• Prevents Constipation: Fiber adds bulk to your stool, preventing it from becoming too hard and dry – which makes it easier to pass and can help prevent constipation.
• Lowered Risk of Colon Cancer. The more regularly you incorporate fiber in your diet, the more potential to reduce your risk of colon cancer, by keeping your colon clear…and making it easier to spot polyps during a colonoscopy or other exams.
• Weight Management: Fiber-rich foods tend to be more filling, which can help control your appetite and prevent overeating, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
• Stable Blood Sugar Levels: Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats and beans, can slow the absorption of sugar, helping to maintain more stable blood sugar levels – which is essential for individuals with diabetes.
• Heart Health: A high-fiber diet has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease by helping to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood pressure.

How to Incorporate More Fiber into Your Diet: 7 Practical Tips

So, how do you get more fiber in your diet – in tasty ways – besides bran muffins? We have some ideas for you!

(Always talk to your doctor before making dietary changes – and make sure to increase fiber gradually and drink plenty of water to prevent discomfort or bloating.)

1. Start Your Day with Fiber:Choose whole-grain cereals or oatmeal for breakfast. Top it off with fresh berries or sliced bananas for an extra fiber boost.
2. Embrace Whole Grains:Opt for whole-grain bread, pasta, and rice instead of their white-flour refined counterparts. Look for labels that say “whole” as the first ingredient.
3. Snack Smart:Swap out sugary or salty snacks with fiber-rich options like raw vegetables, whole fruits, or nuts. Hummus or peanut butter can add flavor and extra nutrients.
4. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables:Aim to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal. Fresh, frozen, or canned (without added sugar or salt) all count.
5. Beans and Legumes:Incorporate beans, lentils, and chickpeas into your meals – on salads, in soups, with pastas, and in tacos.  They’re not only rich in fiber but also a great source of protein.
6. Don’t Peel Everything:Many fruits and vegetables have edible skins that are rich in fiber, like apples and cucumbers. So, leave the peeler in the drawer!
7. Hydrate with Fiber:Opt for high-fiber beverages like herbal teas or water infused with slices of citrus or cucumber. (And water is your best choice for optimal digestive health!)

Maintain Your Gastrointestinal Health

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., we’re here to help you reach and maintain your optimal gut health. Whether it’s diagnosing and treating conditions that bring you abdominal discomfort, or preventing colon cancer with a colonoscopy, our knowledgeable doctors in Troy, Mich. have years of experience to keep your digestive health in tip-top shape. Contact us today for an appointment!

When you come to see us at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., we want to get to the bottom of what’s going on, and we will do everything we can to make you feel comfortable and get all the answers you need. Don’t forget to ask all these questions to make sure you have a firm understanding of how to best take charge of your gastrointestinal health!

1.What tests do I need?

To properly diagnose your symptoms and get you on the path to feeling better, we’ll probably need to run tests. Depending on your symptoms, medical history, and concerns, we’ll discuss which tests are appropriate. From endoscopies to imaging, we’ll tailor the approach to your unique situation.

2.What lifestyle changes should I make?

Your gut health is intricately tied to your lifestyle (and things like ultra-processed foods affect your gut). We’ll talk about dietary tweaks, exercise routines, stress management, and even sleep patterns that can have a positive impact on your gastrointestinal well-being.

3.What do my symptoms mean?

That gurgling, bloating, or discomfort you’ve been feeling isn’t fun, and means that something is making your gut unhappy. We will figure it out together, and then we can explain what those symptoms could signify and how we can address them head-on.

4.What is my exact diagnosis?

Clear communication is key, so we will break down your diagnosis in simple terms so have a thorough knowledge of what your exact condition means and completely understand what’s going on – like the difference between IBS and colon cancer.

5.What is the cause of my diagnosis?

Understanding the “why” is just as crucial as knowing the “what.” We’ll delve into the underlying causes of your diagnosis, whether it’s an infection, inflammation, or something else, so that you know how to best alleviate the cause if possible – and how to prevent it from happening again if it’s acute.

6.What other symptoms should I look out for?

Sometimes you’ll have additional symptoms, and you’ll need to be aware of anything new going on that may mean you have something else going on, or potentially if things are progressing.

7.What should I expect with my diagnosis?

It’s important to know what’s ahead, so you can know how to take care of yourself property – and when to come back in for further testing or treatments. Knowledge is power, so make sure you know what’s ahead.

8.What are my best treatment options?

Depending on your diagnosis, there may be varying treatment options we can come up with to make you feel better and have your digestive tract running more smoothly. Know all your options.

9.What are the risks, benefits, and side effects associated with each treatment option?

Because you may have several options for treatment for your gastrointestinal distress, it’s important to discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks to each of them, that way you can work with us to make the best decision for you and your health.

10.When should I schedule my colonoscopy?

If you’re in the gastrointestinal office and haven’t had a colonoscopy yet, your answer may be now. Even if you’re younger than 45, it may be time to get a scope in your gastrointestinal tract to fully see what’s going on, and do our best to prevent colon cancer.

Schedule your appointment now

If your abdomen is in any sort of distress, schedule your office visit now with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich., so we can take care of things before they potentially get worse.