What is Digestive Health?
The digestive system is a complex journey where food is broken down into its chemical components so that the body can use them as fuel. Digestive health ensures that your digestive system can work effectively to get your body the nutrients it needs. In women, there are some digestive disorders that are more common than in men.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women, but it can be especially important to diagnose in women for a few reasons. One of the most important reasons is that colonoscopies can be more difficult to perform because of slightly longer tracts and that women are more likely to have scar tissue from surgeries like C-sections or hysterectomies.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive system. This can cause severe pain and unusual bowel movements. Although men can be affected by IBD, it uniquely affects women by causing premenstrual symptoms, iron-deficiency anemia, and difficulty becoming pregnant. IBD can also worsen with pregnancy in some women.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
A digestive disorder, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can be equally as common in men and women, but women can experience it much more frequently during pregnancy. The most common symptom is heartburn and indigestion which, over time, can take a toll on the digestive system.
Why is Digestive Health Important?
Your digestive system plays an extremely important role in ensuring your body gets the nutrients and energy it needs. This means it’s important to take care of the complex system of bacteria and hormones that contribute to your digestive system’s health. Also, your digestive system has strong ties to your emotional health, meaning it’s important to eat the right diet. Having poor digestive health can affect all areas of your body, just like having excellent digestive health can improve all aspects of your body and lifestyle.
What Steps Can I Take?
Digestive health starts with the right diet to ensure your body has a variety of nutrients to use. Additionally, you can make sure to incorporate foods full of fiber to help boost your digestive health and making sure your digestive system isn’t taxed. If you have symptoms like heartburn, frequent stomach pain, or irregular bowel movements, you should be sure to see your gynecologist who can assess your health, diet, and lifestyle to recommend the right changes.
Schedule an Appointment
Digestive health can affect women in unique ways, so it’s important to know what to look for when it comes to managing your diet and remaining healthy. To meet with our expert team and learn more about your digestive health, contact our New York City office by calling or filling out our online form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hormones affect your digestive system?
Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, can affect the digestive system. For this reason, women commonly experience changes in digestion through the menstrual cycle or menopause which can include constipation, bloating, or nausea.
Can hormones cause stomach ulcers?
It is possible that a hormonal imbalance can cause stomach ulcers. However, this is relatively uncommon.
Can stress cause digestive problems?
Stress can cause a variety of digestive issues. These may include bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and general discomfort.
Can the menopause cause digestive problems?
During menopause, decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone can slow the process of the food passing through the GI system. This may lead to constipation, gas, and bloating.
Does your digestive system change as you get older?
The digestive system changes with age, often leading to slower digestion, decreased enzyme production, and reduced gut motility. These changes can result in common issues like constipation, acid reflux, and difficulty absorbing nutrients. A fiber-rich diet, hydration, and probiotics can help maintain digestive health as you age.
How are you tested for IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is typically diagnosed through symptom evaluation, medical history, and ruling out other conditions. Common tests include blood tests, stool tests, and sometimes a colonoscopy or breath test to check for food intolerances or bacterial overgrowth.
How do doctors test for digestive issues?
Doctors use a variety of tests to diagnose digestive issues, depending on symptoms and suspected conditions. These can include blood tests, stool tests, imaging scans (like CT or MRI), endoscopy, and colonoscopy to visualize the digestive tract.
How do I get my digestive system back on track?
To reset your digestive system, focus on eating a balanced diet with fiber-rich foods, staying hydrated, and managing stress. Probiotics, regular exercise, and avoiding processed foods, alcohol, and excessive caffeine can also improve gut health. If symptoms persist, consulting a doctor can help identify any underlying issues.
How do you know if probiotics are working?
Signs that probiotics are working include improved digestion, reduced bloating, and more regular bowel movements. Other benefits may include increased energy, better immune function, and relief from symptoms like gas or stomach discomfort. It can take a few weeks for noticeable effects to appear, and consistency is key for maintaining results.
How does the hormone secretin help in digestion?
Secretin is a hormone that helps regulate digestion by stimulating the pancreas to release bicarbonate, neutralizing stomach acid. It also promotes bile production in the liver, aiding in fat digestion and nutrient absorption. This process ensures a balanced pH in the small intestine, optimizing enzyme activity for proper digestion.
What causes digestive system problems?
Poor diet, stress, infections, food intolerances, or chronic conditions like IBS or GERD can cause digestive issues. Other factors include a lack of fiber, dehydration, medication side effects, and imbalances in gut bacteria. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment and long-term digestive health.
How do you get rid of harmful bacteria in the gut?
Reducing harmful bacteria in the gut involves eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and prebiotics like fiber to nourish good bacteria. Avoiding excessive sugar, processed foods, and antibiotics (unless necessary) can also help balance gut flora. In some cases, doctors may recommend targeted treatments like antibiotics for bacterial overgrowth or supplements to support gut health.
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