If someone told me that giving up my diet cokes could also save me a couple of hundred dollars a year, I’d probably think about it for a minute and then, with a sigh, say, “yeah that’s great but it’s the only vice I have left.”  It’s been my go-to line when anyone asks me to give them up. (more…)

Did you know that keeping your heartburn in check could also reduce the risk of colon cancer? Heartburn is a burning discomfort from the chest up to the throat and leading cause of heartburn is the food we eat. Foods that are highly acidic, spicy, high in fat, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine can all contribute to heartburn. No fun …  huh?  Not necessarily. Give the Taco Bell Doritos tacos and the bacon milk shakes the day off and let’s take a look at a recipe that can ease heartburn and is good for your colon as well. (more…)

Surely everyone is familiar with the burning sensation that all too often accompanies the after-dinner mint following a heavy meal. You know the acidic taste you get in your mouth after burping? The pressure in your chest that makes you wonder if you just might be having a heart attack? That’s heartburn.

In a Q&A on Caring.com a reader asked, “How are heartburn and colon cancer related?” The answer gives us a clear indication that there is a probable link between heartburn and colon cancer. “A reoccurring heartburn can sometimes be a key sign towards determining a more severe case with digestive disorders. We all experience heartburn occasionally but a prolonged feeling of heartburn is likely due to another cause and needs medical attention as soon as possible.” (more…)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the common ailments of the bowel and affects millions of people in the United States. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, frequent constipation and/or frequent diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. “Most people can control their symptoms with diet, stress management, and prescribed medications,” according to the National Digestive Diseases Clearing House. Using the FODMAP diet theory, we will focus this post on a dish that is IBS friendly and very healthy. (more…)

Talking with your parents about their health can be a touchy subject, especially when it comes to colon health. But if one or both of your parents have had colon polyps removed during a colonoscopy, then you need to be screened before age 50, the recommended age for a first colon screening. That’s because a family history of polyps increases your own risk of developing polyps—the tiny growths found in the lining of the large intestine, bowel, or colon—that can ultimately grow into colon cancer if not detected and removed.

So how do you get the conversation started? (more…)