Imagine your gut as the gas tank that fuels your body, and your colon plays a crucial role in making sure everything runs smoothly – keeping those fuel lines clean. How do you know when it’s healthy, or when you may need a tune-up?

Visiting your gastrointestinal doctor regularly and going in anytime you have changes in your digestive system (because you have a gastrointestinal doctor on your list, right?) helps keep an eye on things, but here are some tips to help in the meantime:

1. Regularity is Key

Just like a well-oiled engine, a healthy colon keeps things moving regularly. If you’re experiencing normal bowel movements at least once a day (though some people might be fine with slightly less), chances are your colon is happy. On the flip side, irregular bowel habits, constipation, or diarrhea might be signs of an unhappy colon that needs a tune-up.

You diet can help your gut feel (and move) better – and adding fiber is a surefire way to get things more regular. You could take fiber supplements, but a tastier option is to incorporate whole grains whenever you can for white flour (in breads, pastas, oats, and rice) or add nuts, apples and strawberries into your snacks or meals.

And it only takes some simple changes to your diet to help keep it cleaner. With these 5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut, you’ll notice a difference in how you feel and how your body is running on the fuel it’s being given.

And the biggest aid? Water. Add fruit to it, or drink it by itself to cleanse your digestive tract.

2. No More Bloat

A bloated belly is like running on low-quality fuel: It slows you down and feels awful. You know that feeling you get when you eat certain foods (like ultra-processed foods, which are bad for your gut and can potentially increase your risk of colon cancer).

A healthy colon keeps gas and bloating in check, so if you’re not feeling like a human balloon after meals, your colon is probably doing its job. If, however, you have bloat after eating often, it’s probably time for a tune-up.

3. The Cleaner, the Better

A colonoscopy is vital to maintaining your colon health.

Once you have hit a certain mileage (45 years old) – or if you have risk factors or family history of colon cancer – it’s time for a scheduled cleaning: A colonoscopy. Not only will it clean things out, but it can detect and remove any suspicious growths or polyps before they turn into something more serious.

A colonoscopy prevents colon cancer. And even if you may not want to think about it, you should know these colon cancer facts to save your life.

4. Listen to Your Gut (and Your Body)

When your car starts making a funny noise, you notice and start paying attention, taking it in if it persists. The same goes for your gut. If you’re experiencing unexplained changes in your bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain, or unintentional weight loss, your gut might be sending distress signals. Don’t ignore these warning signs – think of it as your “check engine” light coming on.

Visit your gastrointestinal doctor so we can take a look and diagnose the issue (and fix it so your body is running more efficiently).

5. A Balanced Diet is Fuel Efficiency

To keep your gas tank happy, you need good quality fuel. The same applies to your colon: A balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, veggies, and whole grains can do wonders for your gut health. Fiber acts like a gentle scrubber, cleaning out your colon and preventing constipation.

Get a Gut Tune-Up

Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich. for all your gut needs: From diagnosing pain in your abdomen, bowel irregularities and an uncomfortable stomach, to treating conditions like GERD, IBD, Celiac Disease and more, our knowledgeable and caring doctors can get your body running (and feeling) better. And when it’s time for a colonoscopy, you can have it done here in our surgical center instead of a hospital (saving you time, energy, and money).

Whether it’s a fleeting discomfort or persistent agony in your abdomen, understanding when to consult a doctor can be crucial in identifying and managing underlying conditions, such as colon cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, pain, and bloody stools are your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right.

Timely intervention not only ensures early detection of potentially serious conditions such as colon cancer but also enables appropriate management and treatment. It allows for the implementation of strategies to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications associated with chronic gastrointestinal conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease and others.

Abdominal Pain: When to See a Doctor

Abdominal pain is a common symptom that can range from mild to severe and can originate from various sources within the digestive system. While some instances of abdominal pain may resolve on their own, others may signal a more serious underlying condition. That’s why it’s so important to be able to recognize when it’s time to consult a doctor.

1. Severe or persistent pain: If your abdominal pain is intense and continues for an extended period, it’s essential to seek medical attention. This level of pain may be indicative of a severe condition that requires immediate evaluation, and the sooner we can identify what’s going on, the better our ability to treat it effectively.
2. New-onset pain: If you experience abdominal pain that is different from your usual discomfort — if it arises suddenly — it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Things don’t happen for no reason, and this change could be a sign of an underlying issue that requires further investigation.
3. Associated symptoms: Pay close attention to additional symptoms that accompany your abdominal pain, because your gut sends signals to the rest of your body when something is amiss. These symptoms may include fever, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), blood in your stool, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Having a full picture of what’s going on can help your gastrointestinal doctor diagnose your pain fully.

Why It’s Important to See a Doctor for Abdominal Pain

Celiac Disease: Get Diagnosed and Alleviate Other Symptoms

Conditions like Celiac Disease can present in a multitude of symptoms — many of which don’t pertain to your digestive system, but all start there. The damage that Celiac Disease can do is more than just upsetting your stomach when you eat gluten: Celiac Disease essentially attacks your immune system and can potentially cause long-term harm throughout your body.

Colon Cancer: Early Detection for a Better Outcome

As the second-leading cause of cancer deaths, colon cancer is a significant concern when it comes to abdominal pain — but it is the only one that is PREVENTABLE. That’s why it’s vital to get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner if you have risk factors or family history): Colon cancer rarely has symptoms in its earliest stages. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment, and even catch precancerous polyps before they grow into cancer. While not all abdominal pain is directly linked to colon cancer, being proactive about screening can save lives.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treat Recurring Abdominal Pain

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract and includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which can cause abdominal pain. If you are experiencing recurrent or persistent abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or weight loss, it is crucial to consult a gastroenterologist for a proper evaluation. We can diagnose and treat IBD and get you on the path to feeling better.

Treating Other Abdominal Conditions

Abdominal pain is not normal and can stem from various causes, ranging from benign to potentially life-threatening conditions. It could mean diverticulitis, ulcers, appendicitis, or more. There’s no need to ignore or underestimate persistent or severe abdominal pain when consulting your gastrointestinal doctor can bring relief from symptoms and keep you healthy.

Contact a Gastrointestinal Doctor for Abdominal Pain

Consulting a gastroenterologist when you experience abdominal pain allows for a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C.  in Troy, Mich. possess the knowledge and expertise to conduct a thorough examination, perform necessary tests, and provide an accurate diagnosis to help you stay healthy and feel better.

Men often prioritize various aspects of their lives like career, family, and hobbies, but tend to overlook a crucial component: Their health (particularly when it comes to colon health). While conversations about colon health may seem uncomfortable or taboo, it is essential for men to be aware of the importance of regular colon health screenings – especially having a colonoscopy by age 45 or sooner if they have risk factors.

Understanding Colon Health

The colon (also referred to as the large intestine) plays a significant role in the digestive process by absorbing water and nutrients, while also eliminating waste products from the body. It regulates everything going through your body, sending signals everywhere based on how the gut itself is feeling and what nutrients it’s taking in and filtering.

That’s why it’s vital to take care of your gut – and a colonoscopy is the best way to see what’s really going on in your gut…and prevent colon cancer.

Why Men Need a Colonoscopy

• Early Detection – and PREVENTION – of Colon Cancer
  • Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men, and a colonoscopy allows your gastrointestinal doctor to examine the colon lining, identify precancerous growths (polyps), and remove them before they become cancerous. Regular screenings significantly reduce the risk of developing advanced-stage colon (or colorectal) cancer, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
• Detection of Other Colon Conditions
  • Colonoscopies enable the diagnosis of other colon-related conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis enables timely intervention and management of these conditions, improving the quality of life for men and minimizing potential complications.
• Personalized Screening Recommendations
  • Your first colonoscopy sets the stage for taking care of your gut health for years to come. Based on the findings of an initial colonoscopy, your team of doctors will determine the appropriate screening intervals for subsequent examinations by factoring in your family history, personal health history, and the presence of any abnormalities. Regular colonoscopies help create a tailored screening plan, ensuring you receive appropriate follow-up care specific to your individual needs.
• Reduction of Colon Cancer-related Deaths
  • Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE! However, many men (and women) put off their routine colonoscopies and then precancerous polyps can’t be located and removed at their earliest stages, before they grow into cancerous polyps.

Schedule your Colonoscopy Today!

Break the stigma surrounding colon health: Encourage men everywhere to prioritize colonoscopies and get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner, with risk factors). Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan today to schedule your appointment.

You may have heard about Celiac Disease or know someone who has it – but you could also be suffering in silence. The more you learn about Celiac Disease, the more you can talk to your doctor about getting tested for Celiac Disease, and you can feel better and stave off additional health problems.

Read the truths behind these 5 Myths About Celiac Disease Everyone Needs to Know:

MYTH #1: It’s no big deal; I can handle an upset stomach if I keep eating gluten.

TRUTH: If you have only a gluten sensitivity, you may only deal with stomach discomfort. However, Celiac Disease involves more than some fleeting abdominal pain: It can also cause long-term harm because the body essentially attacks itself with an immune system response when it has to fight off gluten. That’s why it’s imperative to take care of your gut health.

MYTH #2: It’s just a stomach issue.

TRUTH: Celiac Disease has symptoms throughout the rest of your body, which is why sometimes people go awhile before it’s diagnosed. Think about it: What you consume fuels your body –  so if it doesn’t have the right fuel, you can experience misfires throughout your entire system. When you have Celiac Disease, it affects much more than just your digestive system and can affect your neurological system, and contribute to headaches, iron-deficiency anemia, brain fog, menstrual and fertility issues, depression, and more.

MYTH #3: Avoiding gluten is impossible.

TRUTH: While you’ll have to avoid most traditional pastas, rice, cereals, and many processed foods, we’ve come a long way and many grocers, restaurants, pizzerias, and more offer gluten-free alternatives. Choose oats as an alternative (after clearing there’s no cross-contamination). Substitute potato, rice, soy, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, or bean flour for wheat flour when cooking. You probably have a few staples and meals in your regular rotation…simply taking some time to find replacements for them will make it easier to adjust your eating habits.

MYTH #4: It’s “trendy” — chances are I don’t have Celiac Disease.

TRUTH: It’s estimated that 1 in 100 people have Celiac Disease – but hardly everyone gets tested for it, so we don’t really know how common it is. However, those estimates put it at being more common than having a peanut allergy. And the instances of Celiac Disease are rising, as more people become informed and get tested.

MYTH #5: I don’t have the same symptoms as my parent (or child) does, so it’s not Celiac Disease.

TRUTH: Celiac Disease presents itself with a range of different symptoms in each person — and close blood relatives have a higher instance of being diagnosed with Celiac Disease — so it could be likely that you also have Celiac Disease. And since Celiac Disease can develop at any age, even if you’ve been tested a decade ago it could now have high enough levels to be detected.

Get Tested

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich., we can test you to determine if you have Celiac Disease (which could be contributing to a host of other ailments you’re dealing with as well). Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take care of your gut health!

Colorectal cancer (also more commonly referred to as colon cancer) is the fourth-most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second-leading cancer killer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What are the chances I will get colon cancer?

Colon cancer affects men and women equally, and your risk increases as you get older.

However, COLON CANCER IS PREVENTABLE. Regular screenings for colon cancer – in the form of a colonoscopy – can detect and remove potential pre-cancerous polyps before colon cancer starts, and detect colon cancer in its earliest stages to treat it with better results.

The 5-year relative survival rate for early-stage colon cancer (stage I and II) is 90 percent. Colon cancer screenings save lives.

What causes colon cancer?

There isn’t a consensus on exactly what causes most colon cancers. According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cancer begins when healthy cells in the colon develop changes in their DNA, then continue to divide and can accumulate into forming a tumor.

What are the risk factors of colon cancer?

Stay informed about your risks to monitor your possibilities to develop colon cancer:

• Age. Although cases are becoming more prevalent in younger ages, everyone should be screened for colon cancer with a colonoscopy by age 45.
• African American race. In general, African Americans have increased prevalence of colon cancer compared to other races…but this may be due to lack of early screenings.
• Personal history. If you’ve already had colon polyps, you remain at increased risk to develop polyps again that could potentially turn into colon cancer.
• Family history. If a close blood relative has or had colon cancer, you may be at increased risk to develop colon cancer yourself.
• Intestinal conditions. Any inflammation in your bowels (like Inflammatory Bowel Disease) should be monitored for colon cancer risk.
• Lack of movement. Regular physical activity helps maintain health in general.
• Low-fiber diet. Fiber helps keep things moving in your intestines and plays a big part in keeping your colon healthy.

What are symptoms of colon cancer?

Most times, colon cancer has no symptoms. Most people don’t feel any polyps in the colon when they develop. However, be mindful of any symptoms and always talk to your doctor if you have:

• Change in bowel habits
• Bloody stools
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• The feeling your bladder doesn’t empty
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Unexplained weight loss

Get screened for colon cancer

A colonoscopy is a quick, relatively painless procedure that can PREVENT COLON CANCER. Schedule yours today if you’re 45 (even if you have no symptoms) or have increased risk factors. Our team at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, is knowledgeable and provides high-quality colonoscopies as our specialty.

You go to your primary doctor for your annual tests, so why do you need a gastrointestinal doctor? Many reasons!

A gastrointestinal doctor has a specialty: Your digestive system. And your digestive system includes your esophagus all the way where your food travels through everything in your digestive tract…to its exit.

That means a gastroenterologist is more well-versed in every tiny nuance of your gastrointestinal system and is up-to-speed on every in-the-minute cause and treatment option. Your gastrointestinal doctor can often diagnose and treat those issues more efficiently than your primary doctor, because your gastrointestinal doctor has all the tools at their disposal.

Plus it always helps to know where to go when you have stomach pain, instead of waiting for it to get better (which can make things worse).

When you’d see a gastrointestinal doctor

• Whenever you have pain in your throat, like difficulty swallowing or a burning down your throat, a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• Anytime your stomach hurts after eating – whether from ulcers,  indigestion or from something like Celiac Disease or lactose intolerance – a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• If you get frequent heartburn, acid reflux or GERD, a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• Sudden weight loss (when you aren’t actively dieting or exercising frequently) means something is amiss, and a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• Bowel movement concerns – including diarrhea and constipation – that occur persistently can indicate an issue that a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• Any bleeding from the rectum isn’t normal and should be investigated…so a gastrointestinal doctor can help.
• Plus when you turn 45 (or have a family history or risk factors for colon cancer), you’ll need a colonoscopy from a gastrointestinal doctor.

A gastrointestinal doctor can work with you to keep your colon healthy (and you can use these 6 Tips for a Healthy Colon to get started) and reduce your pain and discomfort.

Metro Detroit Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. can help!

Schedule your appointment today with Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., and let us talk with you about your gastrointestinal concerns. We can figure out what’s causing you pain and get you on the path to feeling better!

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.

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.

Is it not the colonoscopy itself that makes you apprehensive, but the prep for it? That’s understandable. It’s true that a colonoscopy isn’t like other medical tests where you go in, have an X-ray, and that’s it. The prep for a colonoscopy is an important part of making sure we can see everything there is to see in your colon – but it doesn’t have to be difficult!

You WANT a colonoscopy. Why? Because it’s the best way to PREVENT COLON CANCER.  When you have a colonoscopy, we can see the linings of your colon and check it out for any concerns, and remove any polyps that may be pre-cancerous.

That’s what the prep of colonoscopy is: Cleaning out your intestines as much as possible, so nothing is in the way of spotting anything of concern.

Here’s how you can make the most of your colonoscopy prep, and keep your colon healthy:

A FEW DAYS BEFORE

This is one of the only times we’ll tell you to hold off on those fiber-rich foods!

And when you do eat, have smaller portions. It’s quicker to run through your digestive system, and less to accumulate that has to be eliminated with the colonoscopy prep drink the night before your procedure!

By cutting down on the amounts of solid foods you’re eating a few days before, the diet restrictions the day before your colonoscopy and the day of the procedure also won’t seem as difficult.

• Stick to a diet of soups, eggs, rice, salmon, chicken, steamed vegetables, fruits, and light-colored foods.
• Skip high-fiber foods that take a while to digest like nuts, popcorn and red meat. Stay away from fried foods, and things difficult to digest like corn, peas and apple skins.

THE DAY BEFORE

Don’t eat ANY solid foods the day before your colonoscopy. Remember, we don’t want any remnants floating around your digestive system when we have the camera in there, so give your body at least a day with no solids.

• Clear liquids are good! Broth, black coffee or tea, clear juice or soft drinks, etc.
• Then it’s time for the infamous colonoscopy prep drink (and it’s really not so bad)!

THE COLONOSCOPY PREP DRINK: THE MOST IMPORTANT PART

Your doctor will give you instructions on drinking a specific liquid laxative designed to get rid of everything left over in your bowels – and, keep this in mind: if you haven’t had solid foods for a day or so before this, there will be a LOT less to expel from your intestines when it comes time for this part.

• Some tips to help things go more smoothly:
• Be sure to get some medicated wet wipes to use. Some with aloe will help you feel more comfortable.
• Clear your schedule for the evening when it comes time to drink your colonoscopy prep drink.
• Set up shop in or near the bathroom, with your laptop, book, movies, or something else to keep your mind occupied. Don’t forget the chargers!
• Chill your prep drink to make it easier to drink (a straw may help, too!).

The day of your colonoscopy:

We want your colon as empty as possible, so be sure to follow directions from your doctor on when to stop eating and drinking anything at all before your procedure.

When you come to our surgery center at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., it’s less overwhelming than at a hospital (with all the same equipment and amenities) so you’ll get situated and ready to go!

We’ll go over the procedure and answer any lingering questions you may have.

You’ll have a sedative, which means you won’t really feel anything from the procedure itself. And, it’s over in about a half hour!

When the colonoscopy is over, you can feel relieved that you underwent a procedure designed to catch and prevent colon cancer before it starts (and any other concerns). Way to go on that self-care!

Schedule your Colonoscopy

If you’re 45 years old or have risk factors, contact us today to schedule your colonoscopy at Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan.

Processed foods were created to help us out in our busy lives – because when it’s already processed, it’s generally quicker to prepare and has a longer shelf life (so we don’t have to go grocery shopping as often, in theory).

But anything that’s boxed and processed isn’t usually the healthiest choice for your gut. When foods are processed, they often take away nutrients and add excess salt and sugar and other preservatives.

Many of us have become accustomed to having processed foods as staples in our diets – but there are a few easy swaps you can start making now to adjust to a cleaner, healthier diet! (Even when you’re eating out!)

5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut

1.Trade white rice for brown rice

White rice is processed, therefore many of the nutrients are stripped during that process. Brown rice has more fiber (which we know is great for making you feel full and keeping your colon healthy!).

White rice also has more sugar in it – whereas brown rice contains nutrients like magnesium, niacin, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B1.

The nutrients kept in brown rice make it an energizing, healthy carb. Many diets that promote “no carbs” consider that most of the carbs many people eat are processed…but brown rice can be a great staple in your diet to fuel your body, clean your gut, and help you feel full with less food.

Plus, whole grains can help lower your colon cancer risk!

(And if you’re up for it, try trading your brown rice for even healthier options like quinoa or barley!)

2.Replace soda with carbonated water and fresh fruit (or just water!)

Nixing soda can be a hard habit to break – but if you make up your mind to do it, you can!

You still want the fizzy drink? Use carbonated soda water (without all the chemicals, sugar, and caffeine) and throw in fresh fruit. Cut up limes or lemons and have them on hand to squeeze and toss in there. Or maybe mix it up with some watermelon and cucumber for a refreshing twist!

Even replacing one can of soda with a glass of water can help start the trend. Water makes you feel full and replenishes lost fluids from your body to keep you from getting dehydrated.

Plus it doesn’t have all the sugars that your gut has to process.

3.Use real potatoes instead of instant flakes

When you’re coming home from work, it can save you a lot of time to make instant potatoes instead of cooking fresh ones. But, the real potatoes are worth it: They pack more nutrients, and can reduce inflammation in your colon.

Plus, the potatoes from the ground can help you feel more full! White potatoes are a resistant starch, full of probiotics that benefit gut health. Plus they’re high in potassium and low in sodium.

And if you’re thinking you want to stay away from carbs, fresh potatoes that are prepared in a healthy way are fresh and not processed, so they’re not as bad as you may think.

4.Instead of chips or cheesy crackers: Cheese and whole-grain crackers

Cheese has a way of filling you up and giving you nutrients to give you energy and stay full longer! When you are on the road and need a snack, it’s easy to pick up a bag of something…but fresh cheese and whole-grain crackers will work better!

Animal products like cheese contain protein and Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and calcium – all essential to a healthy diet. And having enough calcium in your diet can help to prevent colorectal cancer. 

And the whole-grain crackers, although processed, are a better choice than chips for what you’re looking for in a snack. Whole grain, or multi-grain crackers, have fiber in them to keep you feeling full longer, and to help clean out your gut.

5. Switch from boxed cereal to oatmeal

You may have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but you’re rushed in the morning so you just grab a quick bowl of cereal (or breakfast bar) to make sure you get something to start your day. Why not try some oatmeal? Not the packaged kind, but the rolled oats kind, and add your own toppings!

When you’re choosing your oatmeal, steel-cut oats are the least processed type, full of the most original nutrients. But rolled oats (or old-fashioned oats) and quick oats are still good for your gut!

Quick oats are the most processed of the types of oats, because they go through a partial-cooking process to make them a couple minutes quicker to cook than rolled oats. Make sure if you have Celiac Disease that you talk to your doctor first.

Oats – and oatmeal – are fantastic grains packed with fiber to help you feel full longer, give you energy, and keep your gut healthy (with everything flowing smoothly).

Toss some cinnamon on your oatmeal, or some cut up strawberries and blueberries. Or maybe some peaches, or bananas and walnuts. The healthy, flavorful choices are plentiful to make your breakfast something you (and your gut) look forward to!

Get your gut checked today!

When you use these 5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut,

make sure to talk to your GI doctor about any changes in your diet, so you can take into consideration things like gluten and lactose that may affect your gut health.

Give Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. a call today and we can do a couple quick tests to help you determine what’s going on in your gut, have a healthier gut, and help you with any gut discomfort you may have.